What is Scoliosis? Causes, Symptoms and Scientific Facts
Among the most frequently encountered terms in internet searches on spinal health is "What is scoliosis?". However, due to misinformation, many patients or parents confuse this term with simply "poor posture" or perceive it as a much more frightening condition than it actually is.
In this article, we explain what scoliosis is, how it develops, and in which cases it requires treatment, in the simplest and most scientific terms, based on medical literature.
Medical Definition: What is Scoliosis?
When viewed from behind, the spine of a healthy person should form a straight line (series) from top to bottom. Scoliosis (Spinal Curvature); is a condition in which the spine curves to the right or left in the chest (thoracic) or lower back (lumbar) regions.
However, scoliosis is not merely a "sideways bend"; it is a three-dimensional deformity. For a diagnosis of "Scoliosis" to be made, two fundamental conditions must be present on the X-ray:
- Cobb Angle: The curvature being over 10 degrees.
- Rotation: Rotation of the vertebrae around their own axis.
If the curvature is less than 10 degrees, this condition is not considered a disease but is referred to as "Spinal Asymmetry" (postural difference) and generally does not require treatment.
What causes scoliosis?
The question our patients ask most often is, "Did I cause this? Did my child sit incorrectly?" The causes of scoliosis vary depending on the type, but the most common type is not caused by our mistakes.
We examine scoliosis in three main groups:
1. What is Idiopathic Scoliosis? (Cause Unknown)
It is the most common type of scoliosis (80%). It usually appears during adolescence, between the ages of 10 and 18. The term "idiopathic" in medicine means "of unknown cause". However, recent studies show that genetic factors play a significant role. Carrying heavy bags, poor posture, or poor bed selection can contribute to idiopathic scoliosis. neden olmaz.
2. What is Congenital Scoliosis? (Present at Birth)
It occurs as a result of the spinal bones failing to form properly or fusing together during development in the womb. The spinal abnormality is present at birth and is usually detected early on (infancy or early childhood). It has a high potential to be progressive.
3. What is Neuromuscular Scoliosis?
Cerebral palsy (CP) develops as a result of diseases affecting the muscles and nervous system, such as muscular diseases (myopathy) or polio. It occurs when the muscles are unable to support the spine or pull unevenly.
What are the symptoms of scoliosis?
Scoliosis does not usually cause pain in its early stages. Therefore, families need to be alert to visual signs. The most common signs that can be observed externally are as follows:
- Shoulder Asymmetry: One shoulder being higher than the other.
- Rib Hump: When a person bends forward, one side of the back appears more rounded (due to the ribs being pushed out as a result of spinal curvature).
- Waist Curve Asymmetry: The flattening of the waist on one side and the deepening on the other.
- Body Shift: Lying on one side.
- Kıyafet Uyumu: Clothes constantly shifting to one side or the hem lengths not matching.
Can Scoliosis Be Treated?
Yes, scoliosis is a manageable and treatable condition. However, not every case of scoliosis requires surgery. The treatment plan is tailored to the individual based on the patient's age, growth potential and the degree of curvature.
The generally accepted approach is as follows:
- Observation (Monitoring): Curvatures below 20 degrees in growing children are monitored with regular X-rays.
- Corset Treatment: During the growth phase and for curvatures between 20 and 40 degrees, a corset is used to prevent the curvature from increasing.
- Surgical Treatment: Surgical correction (fusion or wire systems) is considered for curvatures exceeding 40-45 degrees that are fully developed or rapidly progressing.
Scoliosis is a condition that can be controlled without affecting quality of life if detected early. If you suspect any of the above symptoms in yourself or your child, the most appropriate step is to consult a spinal surgeon for a clinical examination and X-ray to clarify the situation.
Remember; early diagnosis is the most important factor in increasing the success of treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is scoliosis genetic? Yes, genetic inheritance plays a significant role, particularly in the most common form of idiopathic scoliosis. Children with first-degree relatives who have scoliosis are at higher risk than other children.
Does exercise correct scoliosis? Sports such as swimming, Pilates and yoga strengthen the muscles around the spine, improve posture and reduce pain. However, they do not completely "eliminate" scoliosis, which is a structural curvature of the spine. They are the most important element in assisting and supporting treatment.
Does scoliosis prevent pregnancy? No, having scoliosis does not prevent you from becoming pregnant or having a normal delivery. Only in patients with severe curvature should the pregnancy process and delivery method (epidural anaesthesia, etc.) be planned in consultation with your doctor.
Legal Notice: This content is for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for diagnosis and treatment. Consult your doctor if you have any health concerns.
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