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Scoliosis is an abnormal curvature of the spine. Some cases are the result of poor muscle control or muscle weakness, traumatic spine or brain injuries, or neurological disorders. Other cases are present at birth and due to problems with spine development. But the cause of the most common type of scoliosis (idiopathic scoliosis) is not known. Fortunately, however, most scoliosis cases do not need to be treated. Your physician may merely recommend close monitoring of the condition to make sure it does not get worse.
 If treatment is necessary, it is based on the type of scoliosis, the size and location of the curve, and the stage of bone development. Norton Leatherman Spine Center specialists may recommend:
- Bracing (which uses pressure to slow curve progression)
- Surgery
Surgery only is recommended for those with curves greater than 45 degrees.
Although most scoliosis is diagnosed in children, it can occur in adults as well. Scoliosis is often unnoticeable in its early stages, so contact a Norton Leatherman Spine Center specialist if you believe you or your child might have scoliosis.
For more information about scoliosis or to make an appointment with a spine specialist, call Norton Leatherman Spine Center at (502) 584-7525.
Learn more about scoliosis below:
What is scoliosis?
Scoliosis is a condition that causes the spine to curve either away from the middle or sideways, making it look like an “S” or a “C” rather than a straight line.
Scoliosis symptoms
Scoliosis may be a concern if shoulders are uneven, there is a curve in the spine or the pelvis appears to be tilted. Depending on the type of scoliosis, you also may experience fatigue and back pain.
Early detection of scoliosis
Children are regularly screened for scoliosis in middle and junior high school. These screenings have allowed for early detection and treatment of many scoliosis cases that previously may have gone undetected.
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Thousands of spine surgeons converged on Louisville for the Scoliosis Research Society’s annual conference, which brings together leading spine specialists from all over the world to present studies and emerging trends in spine care.
John Dimar, M.D., an orthopaedic spine surgeon with Norton Leatherman Spine Center, talks with WAVE 3 News about this high-profile event that includes discussions on scoliosis, adult spine deformities, spine trauma and neuromuscular scoliosis and tumors.
According to Dr. Dimar, spine screening to detect scoliosis at an early stage is key in monitoring and treating this condition. And another note – He doesn’t believe carrying heavy backpacks are the cause
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For more information about the spine or to make an appointment with a spine specialist, call (502) 629-1234. |
