Scoliosis: A Comprehensive Overview

Scoliosis is a medical condition characterized by a sideways curvature of the spine. When viewed from the back, a person with scoliosis will have a spine that is not straight, but rather curves to one side. This curvature can be mild or severe and can occur anywhere along the spine.   

An experienced spine and joint surgeon with over 20 years of practice, he holds as spine surgery qualification diploma and a Eurospine diploma. A distinguished academic, he is a professor in Orthopedics and Traumatology, Medical Biology and Genetics PhD, and Clinical Anatomy PhD. He holds MD and two PhD degree

Throughout his career, he has performed over 4,000 surgeries for various spinal and joint diseases, including vertebral fractures, spinal stenosis, spondylolisthesis, ankylosing spondylitis, and spinal tumors.

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Causes of Scoliosis

The exact cause of scoliosis is often unknown, especially in children and adolescents. This type of scoliosis is called idiopathic scoliosis. Other causes of scoliosis include:  

• Congenital scoliosis: Present at birth due to spinal abnormalities.  
• Neuromuscular scoliosis: Associated with conditions affecting the nerves or muscles, such as cerebral palsy or muscular dystrophy.  
• Secondary scoliosis: Caused by other conditions like tumors, infections, or bone diseases.  

Symptoms of Scoliosis

The symptoms of scoliosis can vary depending on the severity of the curvature. Some common signs include:   

• Uneven shoulders  
• One hip higher than the other  
• A curved spine when bending forward
• Back pain  
• Difficulty breathing (in severe cases)   

Diagnosis of Scoliosis

Scoliosis is typically diagnosed through a physical examination and imaging tests, such as:

• X-rays: To measure the curvature of the spine.  
• MRI: To rule out other underlying conditions.  
• CT scan: To provide a more detailed view of the spine.  

Treatment Options for Scoliosis

The treatment for scoliosis depends on several factors, including the severity of the curvature, the age of the patient, and the cause of the condition. Treatment options may include:

• Observation: For mild cases, regular check-ups may be sufficient. 
• Bracing: For moderate curvatures, a brace may be used to prevent the curve from progressing.  
• Surgery: For severe curvatures, surgery may be necessary to correct the deformity and prevent further progression.   

Living with Scoliosis

People with scoliosis can live full and active lives. With early diagnosis and appropriate treatment, many individuals with scoliosis can manage their condition and experience minimal symptoms.