Scoliosis is an orthopedic condition defined by a lateral curvature of the spine of more than 10 degrees. There are different degrees of scoliosis. Let’s take a closer look at this problem.
Scoliosis has various symptoms and limits one's mobility. This problem can seriously affect the quality of life depending on its degree. Lower degrees of scoliosis may be tolerated if the patient can manage daily activities, however it should be followed up by routine check-ups as there's always the possibility of progress.
Scoliosis is not a condition that resolves on its own, and the treatment plan is determined according to the degree of the curve. People often wonder if scoliosis is genetic. Scientific studies show that the majority of congenital cases can be traced back to a family history. The percentage of scoliosis that is present at birth varies between different ethnicities.
Questions such as “What degree of scoliosis requires surgery?” and “Is scoliosis a disability?” are frequently asked. The decision depends on the individual case and the degree of scoliosis. A comprehensive scoliosis degrees of curvature chart is used for calculation. Please contact Phoenix Healthy to consult with the world's best spine surgeons and get their insights into your treatment plan.
It might not be possible to detect mild scoliosis. It is not a problem that can be easily identified in the early stages. At this period, there is no mention of symptomatic scoliosis. However, as it progresses, it can lead to various health problems. If you suffer from back pain, you have probably researched what scoliosis pain feels like. Below are the most common symptoms of scoliosis:
A physical examination is required to diagnose scoliosis. If diagnosed early, the success rate of treatment is quite high. This is why health screenings conducted in schools for adolescents are important. If you are an adult, during the examination, you will first be asked to bend forward. In some cases, scoliosis may be noticeable even when standing upright.
Additionally, imaging techniques are used during your scoliosis examination. You will be asked to stand in different positions, and X-rays will be taken. Degrees of scoliosis in adults are determined in this way. X-rays are conducted with the help of MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) and CT (Computed Tomography). CT is generally used in advanced scoliosis cases above 40 degrees.
You might be wondering how to know the degree of scoliosis. These are identified based on the spinal curvature. As stated at the beginning of the article, to be diagnosed with scoliosis, you need to have a spinal curvature of 10 degrees or more. Curvatures of 20 degrees and below are referred to as mild scoliosis. Treatment may not be necessary for these cases. However, regular check-ups are required to ensure that the curvature is not increasing.
If your scoliosis degree is between 20 and 40, your condition is defined as moderate. Cases detected around 20 degrees during adolescence can often be treated with a scoliosis back brace. In this scenario, brace use and physical therapy are applicable. On the other hand, curvatures above 40 degrees are classified as severe scoliosis. Surgery may be necessary for these patients. This is the answer to the question, “What degree of scoliosis requires surgery?”.
The diagnosis and treatment of scoliosis are carried out by Orthopaedics departments. When deciding on scoliosis treatment, your age, the degree and location of the curvature, and the intensity of your pain are considered. Additionally, whether the curvature has increased over time is important. The treatment plan is customized for you. Depending on the degree of scoliosis, treatment options include bracing, physical therapy, or surgery. Physical therapy and surgical options are mainly preferred in severe cases among older patients.
Back bracing for scoliosis is imporant. It is particularly used to control spinal curvature in young children and infants. Braces are usually effective in cases where the curvature degree is between 20 and 40. However, braces do not correct the curvature but prevent its progression. Braces may need to be changed as children grow older.
In addition to conventional imaging techniques, an alternative method called EOS is also used to diagnose scoliosis. With this system, the spine, pelvis and lower extremities can be safely examined. The most important advantage of EOS is that the person is standing during imaging. In this way, it is possible for the surgeon to take the whole image at once. This system is especially useful when planning scoliosis surgery.
If you have tried non-surgical options and your spinal curvature has not stopped progressing, you will undergo scoliosis surgery. Surgical intervention is considered within adult scoliosis treatment. Certain symptoms indicate that surgery is the right method for you. For example, if your pain is severe, you have functional bowel problems, and your muscles have weakened, you may need scoliosis surgery.
In individuals who have completed their physical development, operations aimed at stabilizing the spine are performed. In a procedure called spinal fusion, bones taken from a part of your body are used along with metal rods and screws. This method is not recommended for children under 10 years old. Scoliosis surgery lasts about 4-5 hours. You will be kept under observation for about a week. It is expected that you can go back to your daily life within approximately one month.
Scoliosis treatment, especially surgery, may intimidate you as it is a comprehensive procedure. However, if scoliosis is not treated, you may face different health problems. In advanced cases, the rib cage may narrow. If this happens, you will have serious difficulty breathing. If you suspect you have scoliosis, you must seek treatment. If detected early before your spinal curvature progresses, treatment may not be necessary. However, you must not neglect your regular check-ups.
For all your questions regarding pediatric and adult scoliosis treatment, you can reach Phoenix Healthy via the provided contact details.
