Treatment FAQ

what is the treatment for teen-age scoliosis

by Hal Hand Published 3 years ago Updated 2 years ago
image

Some teens with severe scoliosis need a type of surgery called a spinal fusion. During the operation, an orthopedic surgeon straightens the spine as much as possible and holds it in place with rods and screws. The surgeon then puts in bone graft to join (fuse) some of the vertebrae together.

What are the different ways of treating scoliosis?

Physical therapy. The doctor may recommend physical therapy to help strengthen muscles. Research shows that alternative therapies such as chiropractic treatment, nutritional supplements, and electric stimulation do not help manage scoliosis or …

When should a brace be used for scoliosis?

May 08, 2019 · Comprehensive scoliosis treatment allows the child to stay in control of the scoliosis. By addressing the root cause of nerve tension, in combination with use of a brace and scoliosis exercises, curvatures can be treated successfully: not only preventing worsening of the curve BUT ALSO straightening the spine.

Can a person get SSI for having scoliosis?

Jun 18, 2021 · Surgery for Scoliosis: If the curve progresses and has potential to worsen, the physician may recommend surgical options, including spinal fusion. In this method, the surgeon attaches screws and rods to both sides of the spine, which gently straighten the spine.

How to fix scoliosis?

The traditional approach to adolescent scoliosis treatment suggests that while the body is still developing, very little can be done to improve functionality and reduce the curvature of the spine. Sadly, this approach almost always leads to expensive, invasive surgery, whether it’s during your child’s adolescence or at some point in adulthood.

image

How do you fix a 17 year old with scoliosis?

Surgery. Spinal fusion surgery may be recommended for teenagers with severe cases of scoliosis. During this procedure, the surgeon anchors a series of rods to the spine using tiny hooks and screw. A bone graft is then applied – this eventually fuses with the spine with the aim of preventing further curve progression.

How do you treat scoliosis in adolescence?

Treatment options include observation, braces, and surgery. Males and females are about equally likely to have minor scoliosis of approximately 10 degrees, but females are five to 10 times more likely to progress to more severe disease, possibly needing treatment.Feb 1, 2014

What causes scoliosis in a teenager?

Adolescent idiopathic scoliosis probably results from a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Studies suggest that the abnormal spinal curvature may be related to hormonal problems, abnormal bone or muscle growth, nervous system abnormalities, or other factors that have not been identified.Sep 1, 2013

At what age can scoliosis be corrected?

Children with scoliosis between 3-10 years of age is normally the time when the best long term results can be achieved.

Can teenage scoliosis be fixed?

Surgery. Some teens with severe scoliosis need a type of surgery called a spinal fusion. During the operation, an orthopedic surgeon straightens the spine as much as possible and holds it in place with rods and screws. The surgeon then puts in bone graft to join (fuse) some of the vertebrae together.

How can I fix scoliosis naturally?

Mild scoliosis is often managed simply with exercise, medical observation, scoliosis-specific physical therapy, and chiropractic treatment from a chiropractic scoliosis specialist. For some people with scoliosis, yoga or pilates is also recommended to decrease their pain level and increase flexibility.

Does scoliosis go away?

As scoliosis is an incurable and progressive condition, it will neither go away, nor fix itself without treatment.

Can scoliosis be fixed?

Scoliosis is a spinal deformity that cannot be cured, but its progression and severity can be managed with an effective treatment plan. The main condition characteristic that determines its severity is the size of the abnormal spinal curvature.

Can scoliosis be cured?

There is quite simply no cure for scoliosis; it's an incurable progressive condition, meaning its very nature is to get worse. While the rates of progression can vary from glacial to rapid, most adults will start their scoliosis journey with a slower rate that increases with age.

Does scoliosis stop after puberty?

Idiopathic scoliosis, especially thoracic curves, tends to progress more during the first 2 years of puberty. About 75 % of curves ranging from 20° to 30° at onset of puberty end up with surgery.

How do schools deal with scoliosis?

Scoliosis does not affect a student's ability to learn, but wearing a brace or having physical limitations can make a student feel self-conscious or embarrassed. Encourage students to participate in all activities they're up to, and be understanding of any discomfort or tiredness they feel.

Does scoliosis affect puberty?

Both boys and girls with scoliosis were found to be taller and heavier. Both boys and girls with scoliosis showed a significant tendency for delay in skeletal age (P less than 0.0001), and the girls showed a significant tendency for a delay of puberty (P less than 0.0001).

Can scoliosis be straightened?

NOT watch and wait) treatment begins, the greater the chance of success in guiding the spine to grow straight. Sadly, this does not happen often.

Is scoliosis surgery normal?

Talk of scoliosis surgery can sometimes leave the impression that surgery will solve the problem, making the spine “normal” again. Unfortunately surgery is FAR more complicated and is NOT a “magic bullet” by any means. Scoliosis surgery consists of inserting rods fastened to the spine as well as spinal fusion; however, in order to fasten the rods to the spine, connective tissue and muscle must be removed, much of it permanently, by the surgeon. As you would imagine, removal of ligaments, muscle and connective tissue directly affect mobility, as does the fusion of vertebrae in the spine; so to call the spine “normal” post-op would be incorrect as you have already limited mobility.

Can scoliosis be straightened without surgery?

There is a growing body of scientific literature and evidence supporting the fact that scoliosis CAN be straightened without the need for surgery; with early intervention utilizing bracing and physiotherapy preventing surgery. Yet many doctors and clinicians still prescribe antiquated and ineffective treatments. A disconnect exists between the beliefs of doctors versus what the published medical literature reveals.

Can physical therapy help with scoliosis?

Lifestyle and home remedies. Although physical therapy exercises can't stop scoliosis , general exercise or participating in sports may have the benefit of improving overall health and well-being.

Can scoliosis be treated with a brace?

Most children with scoliosis have mild curves and probably won't need treatment with a brace or surgery. Children who have mild scoliosis may need regular checkups to see if there have been changes in the curvature of their spines as they grow. While there are guidelines for mild, moderate and severe curves, the decision to begin treatment is ...

What tests can be done to diagnose scoliosis?

Imaging tests. Plain X-rays can confirm the diagnosis of scoliosis and reveal the severity of the spinal curvature. If a doctor suspects that an underlying condition — such as a tumor — is causing the scoliosis, he or she may recommend additional imaging tests, such as an MRI.

Can a plain X-ray confirm scoliosis?

Plain X-rays can confirm the diagnosis of scoliosis and reveal the severity of the spinal curvature. If a doctor suspects that an underlying condition — such as a tumor — is causing the scoliosis, he or she may recommend additional imaging tests, such as an MRI.

Can X-rays show scoliosis?

Plain X-rays can confirm the diagnosis of scoliosis and reveal the severity of the spinal curvature. If a doctor suspects that an underlying condition — such as a tumor — is causing the scoliosis, he or she may recommend additional imaging tests, such as an MRI.

Do you need a brace for scoliosis?

Most children with scoliosis have mild curves and probably won't need treatment with a brace or surgery. Children who have mild scoliosis may need regular checkups to see if there have been changes in the curvature of their spines as they grow.

Do children with scoliosis need regular checkups?

Children who have mild scoliosis may need regular checkups to see if there have been changes in the curvature of their spines as they grow. While there are guidelines for mild, moderate and severe curves, the decision to begin treatment is always made on an individual basis. Factors to be considered include:

Can a teenager have scoliosis?

Sadly, many teens who have been diagnosed with scoliosis must adjust their lifestyles, choices and plans for the future. Traditional scoliosis treatment options for teens also tend to negatively impact the ability to make the most of what should be a positive and memorable time.

Can scoliosis affect teens?

Traditional scoliosis treatment options for teens also tend to negatively impact the ability to make the most of what should be a positive and memorable time.

What is the adolescent years?

The adolescent years are a magical time for many of us, and if you are like me, the experiences you had as a teen helped to mold you into the person you are today. Sadly, many teens who have been diagnosed with scoliosis must adjust their lifestyles, choices and plans for the future.

What is AIS in adolescence?

Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis (AIS) is actually the most common form of the condition. Idiopathic means that there is no known cause, which is a fact that frustrates teens and their parents. Regardless of the cause, however, scoliosis treatment approaches should take into account the needs, preferences and future goals of the patient.

What is idiopathic scoliosis?

Idiopathic means that there is no known cause, which is a fact that frustrates teens and their parents. Regardless of the cause, however, scoliosis treatment approaches should take into account the needs, preferences and future goals of the patient. AIS affects 4-5% of adolescents, which may not seem like a large number, but it is significant.

Why do teens have more pain with scoliosis?

By contrast, adults with scoliosis tend to experience more pain because once they have stopped growing, the tendency is for the spine to compress, which leads to pressure that causes pain and discomfort. Because pain is rarely expressed — or even evident — teens should be examined for abnormalities in their body symmetry and posture.

Can scoliosis be treated with surgery?

When spinal curves become severe, though, scoliosis treatment approaches such as surgery will be recommended. If the child is still growing and developing, grow rods may be implanted, which will require subsequent procedures as the child continues to grow. If the child is older and closer to the conclusion of their growth period, ...

What are some activities that help with scoliosis?

Sports that can help scoliosis include: Swimming, which can increase core strength since it requires your child to use all of his or her muscles at once. Gymnastics, which can boost your child’s flexibility and improve core strength.

Does exercise help scoliosis?

Yes. While it will not cure scoliosis, exercise might lessen any potential reduction in your child’s physical function over time. Keeping physically fit and exercising can also improve your child's overall sense of well-being and happiness.

Can scoliosis cause pain in the back?

Scoliosis, a condition where the spine is curved sideways, also affects some children. It usually doesn't cause pain, but symptoms to look out for include uneven shoulders and leg length. Mild cases may only need regular monitoring by a doctor. But a child with a severe case of scoliosis may need braces and sometimes surgery.

What is the most common type of scoliosis?

There are three different types of pediatric and adolescent scoliosis: Idiopathic scoliosis is the most common type. "Idiopathic" means that the cause is unknown, but because it runs in families, it has a genetic (hereditary) basis. Congenital scoliosis is a fairly rare spine abnormality detected at birth. Neuromuscular scoliosis is ...

Is scoliosis a genetic disorder?

Idiopathic scoliosis is the most common type. "Idiopathic" means that the cause is unknown, but because it runs in families, it has a genetic (hereditary) basis. Con genital scoliosis is a fairly rare spine abnormality detected at birth. Neuromuscular scoliosis is a curvature of the spine caused by abnormalities in the muscles and nerves ...

What is neuromuscular scoliosis?

Neuromuscular scoliosis is a curvature of the spine caused by abnormalities in the muscles and nerves that support the spine. Examples include patients with cerebral palsy, spina bifida and muscular dystrophy.

How to tell if a child has scoliosis?

Parents or caregivers should watch for the following signs in their child: Uneven shoulders. Constant leaning to one side. Uneven leg length. Prominent shoulder blade (s). An uneven waist.

What is the procedure for scoliosis in teens?

Some teens with severe scoliosis need a type of surgery called a spinal fusion. During the operation, an orthopedic surgeon straightens the spine as much as possible and holds it in place with rods and screws. The surgeon then puts in bone graft to join (fuse) some of the vertebrae together. That way, the curve can't get any worse.

What type of surgery is needed for scoliosis?

Surgery. Some teens with severe scoliosis need a type of surgery called a spinal fusion. During the operation, an orthopedic surgeon straightens the spine as much as possible and holds it in place with rods and screws. The surgeon then puts in bone graft to join (fuse) some of the vertebrae together.

What does scoliosis look like?

People with scoliosis have a side-to-side curve in the spine that can look like an "S" or a "C.". The spine is sometimes called "the backbone," but it's not just one bone. It's made of lots of bones (called vertebrae) that are connected by a type of elastic tissue called cartilage. This gives people the flexibility to bend, stretch, balance, ...

Is scoliosis a curved line?

This gives people the flexibility to bend, stretch, balance, and even walk. Scoliosis is when the vertebrae form a curved line instead of being straight. Sometimes they also rotate (twist), like a corkscrew. Small curves usually don't cause problems. But a curve that gets worse can be bad for a person's health.

Can a child have scoliosis?

Large curves can make the ribs rub against the pelvis, causing pain. If the spine curves a lot, people might get lung problems. Kids of any age — even infants — can have scoliosis. The most common kind of scoliosis is called idiopathic scoliosis. It's usually found when people begin going through puberty.

What is the most common type of scoliosis?

Kids of any age — even infants — can have scoliosis. The most common kind of scoliosis is called idiopathic scoliosis. It's usually found when people begin going through puberty.

How to tell if you have scoliosis?

Sometimes scoliosis is easy to see. A curve in the spin e can make the body tilt to the left or right. If you have scoliosis, it might look like you are leaning to one side. Some people have one shoulder higher than the other or one shoulder blade that sticks out more than the other. If your spine is twisted, ...

What are the symptoms of scoliosis in adolescents?

Symptoms of scoliosis are different from person to person. Symptoms can include a difference in any of the following: Shoulder height. Head position (the head is not centered with the rest of the body) Hip height or position. Shoulder blade height or position.

What is scoliosis in children?

Scoliosis happens when the spine grows with an abnormal, side-to-side curve. We call scoliosis by different names. The name depends on the age when it is diagnosed: Adolescent idiopathic scoliosis – diagnosed at age 10 and older. Early onset scoliosis (EOS), including:

Does scoliosis curve?

The name depends on the age when it is diagnosed: In pre-teens and teens with scoliosis, the spine doesn’ t grow straight. Instead, it curves as it grows. This usually happens in an “S” or “C” shape. Sometimes it also twists as it grows. Spinal curves range from mild to severe.

What age is scoliosis diagnosed?

The name depends on the age when it is diagnosed: Adolescent idiopathic scoliosis – diagnosed at age 10 and older. Early onset scoliosis (EOS), including: Congenital scoliosis – diagnosed at birth or shortly after birth. Infantile idiopathic scoliosis – diagnosed under age 5.

Does scoliosis grow straight?

In pre-teens and teens with scoliosis, the spine doesn’t grow straight. Instead, it curves as it grows. This usually happens in an “S” or “C” shape. Sometimes it also twists as it grows. Spinal curves range from mild to severe. They are measured in degrees.

Is scoliosis progressive or progressive?

In other cases, the curve is progressive. This means it gets worse over time. Adolescent idiopathic scoliosis affects girls more often than boys. Spinal curves often develop during a growth spurt in the early teen years.

What is adolescent idiopathic scoliosis?

Adolescent Scoliosis Causes. The word idiopathic means having no known cause. In most cases, the cause of adolescent scoliosis is unknown. That’s why this diagnosis is most often called adolescent idiopathic scoliosis. Research is being done to look into how and why scoliosis develops.

Can scoliosis be treated as an adult?

Pain is a concern of untreated scoliosis because an unbalanced spine is more prone to degenerative changes which can lead to further progression over time. Traditionally, the only treatment option for adult patients is drugs for pain, or scoliosis surgery. Since adult scoliosis is progressing slowly, our treatment options can get reductions in curvatures, and reduce pain simultaneously. This can prevent the need for invasive surgery. The specific scoliosis home program can help the adults with scoliosis negate the slow progressive nature of scoliosis to prevent further deterioration of their condition.

What are the goals of scoliosis treatment?

Goals of treatment are as follows: 1) Reduce the scoliosis. 2) Prevent any further progression. 3) Improve function and reduce pain. 4) Provide long term stabilization. 5) If a patient is going to have surgery, prepare the patient for the best possible surgical outcome.

How to prevent scoliosis?

1) Reduce the scoliosis. 2) Prevent any further progression. 3) Improve function and reduce pain. 4) Provide long term stabilization. 5) If a patient is going to have surgery, prepare the patient for the best possible surgical outcome.

How many degrees does a scoliosis curve break?

However, the tendency is that once curves break 25 degrees, the curve will continue to progress throughout one’s life without any treatment.

How old are babies when they have scoliosis?

Infants. Infants (0-3years of age) with scoliosis provide their own unique challenges. Mostly that treatment for infants will require modification from treatments that is designed for children and teens.

Can scoliosis be resolved with surgery?

Elderly patients with scoliosis can find themselves dealing with a vast amount of limitations. These limitations may not be resolved with surgery. In fact, the surgery itself may impose more limitations. Our treatment options can help even elderly achieve a more functional spine so they can preserve their ability to perform activities of their daily life. If limitations already exist, a modified program will be constructed based upon the ability of the patient to achieve the very best results.

Why is scoliosis not rapid?

Adults with scoliosis are not rapidity progressing. In fact, most patients that determine they have scoliosis as an adult, is because of pain. Pain is a concern of untreated scoliosis because an unbalanced spine is more prone to degenerative changes which can lead to further progression over time.

image

Diagnosis

Treatment

Clinical Trials

  • Explore Mayo Clinic studiestesting new treatments, interventions and tests as a means to prevent, detect, treat or manage this condition.
See more on mayoclinic.org

Lifestyle and Home Remedies

  • There are no specific activities that are known to cause or correct scoliosis. In general, people with scoliosis have no restrictions regarding lifting or activities. General exercise or participating in sports may have the benefit of improving overall health and well-being.
See more on mayoclinic.org

Alternative Medicine

  • Studies indicate that the following treatments for scoliosis don't help correct the curve: 1. Chiropractic manipulation 2. Soft braces 3. Electrical stimulation of muscles 4. Dietary supplements
See more on mayoclinic.org

Coping and Support

  • Coping with scoliosis can be difficult for a young person in an already complicated stage of life. Teens are bombarded with physical changes and emotional and social challenges. With the added diagnosis of scoliosis, adolescents may feel anger, insecurity and fear. A strong, supportive peer group can have a significant impact on a child's or teen's acceptance of scoliosis, bracing or sur…
See more on mayoclinic.org

Preparing For Your Appointment

  • Your child's doctor may check for scoliosis at a routine well-child visit. Many schools also have screening programs for scoliosis. Physical examinations prior to sports participation often detect scoliosis. If you are informed that your child might have scoliosis, see your doctor to confirm the condition.
See more on mayoclinic.org

A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9