Childhood scoliosis affects around 2-3 percent, or six to nine million children in the United States. This spinal condition involves an abnormal curvature of the spine. Contrary to popular belief, children do not “grow out” of scoliosis, and the condition requires further treatment. Fortunately, when diagnosed and treated early, the condition is correctable without causing any major issues later on. 

What Is Scoliosis?

Scoliosis is a spinal condition where the lateral curvature of the spine is curved abnormally. This condition is most commonly diagnosed when somebody is in their childhood or early adolescence. 

A normal, healthy spine curves at the lumbar, thoracic, and cervical regions in a “sagittal” plane, positioning the head over the pelvis and function as the body’s shock absorbers, distributing mechanical stress throughout the body as it moves. Your child’s spine grows and develops along with the rest of their body, and sometimes throughout this development the spine can bend to one side and may even rotate or twist in a distinctive “c” or “s” -shaped curve that doctors call scoliosis. There are a wide variety of treatments available to successfully treat scoliosis – as long as the condition is diagnosed early. While treatment is available for adults, it can be a more strenuous and difficult process.

Common Signs Of Childhood Scoliosis To Watch For

If you suspect your child has scoliosis, you should consult with their pediatrician, who may refer your child to a spinal specialist for further treatment. Below are some common symptoms of scoliosis that you can watch out for:

• Unequal distance between your child’s arms and their body when standing straight
• Shoulders and shoulder blades that are uneven
• Ribs that stick out more in one area or are extremely prominent in one area
• Uneven hips
• Uneven skin folds at the waist (bulging more on one side, or in a specific are)
• Muscles that bulge on one side or are more prominent in the lower back

Scoliosis may not cause any physical discomfort at all, and your child may not feel any pain from the condition whatsoever – particularly if the curve is moderate or mild. 

Detecting Scoliosis

If you suspect that your child may have scoliosis, consult with your child’s pediatrician regarding a scoliosis screening. They will order an X-ray to confirm the diagnosis. Remember: Early detection is key. Although scoliosis may not have harmful long-term effects on most children, there are many cases where it can cause severe issues later in life if left untreated, such as:

• Ongoing back pain
• Obvious spinal deformity
• Problems with heart and lungs

If your child is diagnosed with scoliosis, ensure that they are getting regular X-Rays and checkups to continually monitor how the curve develops as your child grows. Even though scoliosis tends to affect both male and female children at similar rates, girls are seven to eight times more likely than boys to develop a curve. This curve may become more severe as your child goes through their adolescent growth spurt, which is typically from ages 9 to 13 in girls and 12 to 16 in boys. A mild curve (defined as less than 30 degrees) will most likely not worsen after your child is fully grown. Treatment for scoliosis ranges from keeping an eye on your child’s spinal development to wearing a back brace or potentially corrective surgery if the curvature becomes severe.  

Contact Us Today

The Spine and Scoliosis Center offers comprehensive treatment for scoliosis and other spinal conditions. Call The Spine and Scoliosis Center to schedule an appointment with an experienced Florida spinal specialist today.