What is Scoliosis

Scoliosis is a side-to-side curvature of a normally straight spine.

Scoliosis affects approximately 12 million people worldwide. Left untreated, this unhealthy curve can worsen and cause deformity, respiratory problems, cardiac problems, digestive problems, and debilitating pain. A rotation of the vertebra and the rib cage usually accompanies this unhealthy curve. The majority of scoliosis patients are diagnosed between ages of 12 and 16, although there are many adults who suffer from the disease as well.

Scoliosis is a progressive disease, which can continue into maturity.

As such, it is a disease that must be monitored aggressively and treated as early as possible, preferably before the curve reaches 30 degrees.

Scoliosis may be slight or significant, and may include: the lumbar, thoracic, or thoracolumbar regions of the spine.

The cause of scoliosis is complex; potential contributing factors may include other diseases, trauma, or injuries. Currently the exact cause of Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis is unknown, however, research does indicate that there is a genetic link.

Noticeable changes as a result of Scoliosis often include:

• Rib hump
• Low hip
• Low pelvis
• Leg length discrepancies

Some scoliosis patients have breathing and cardiac problems along with neuropathy.

Since many early degenerative changes are shown in younger patients, adults often have severely advanced degenerative changes in the spine if Scoliosis is present for long periods.

What is Scoliosis