What is scoliosis?
Scoliosis is a 3-dimensional spinal deformity. It is not only the spine that is deformed. Ligaments, muscles, pelvis, collarbones, shoulder blades, shoulders, ribs and fascia are also stressed due to this deformity and increase the asymmetry.
What are the symptoms of scoliosis?
Mild scoliosis may not show symptoms for a long time. It can be noticed in school scans or x-rays. The most common symptom is poor posture. One shoulder is higher than the other. One shoulder blade is more prominent than the other. There may be asymmetry in the hip. Spinal curvature can be noticed when looked carefully. Back and waist pain can be seen ..
Spinal curvature can be in the neck, back, or lumbar region. The degree of scoliosis is determined by the angle of the curvature. Angles below 10 degrees are considered as mild scoliosis. Usually they do not give symptoms. Angles over 40 degrees are considered as severe scoliosis.
What are the types of scoliosis?
– Idiopathic scoliosis (cause unknown): It is a curvature that occurs for an unknown reason in a previously smooth spine. It is the most common type among scoliosis types. The cause is unknown in 80% of the patients.
– Congenital scoliosis (congenital): This condition usually develops due to some defects during the development of the spine. (fused vertebrae or ribs etc.)
– Neuromuscular scoliosis: It occurs as a result of paralysis of the muscles due to diseases such as polio (polio), cerebral palsy and muscle wasting.
How is scoliosis diagnosed?
Scoliosis can be diagnosed during the spine examination when the patient is naked. When the patient leans forward, the curvature becomes evident and the ribs become prominent on the side of the curvature.
Direct radiography is taken to the patient. Radiography is sufficient for scoliosis diagnosis. Up to the age of 18, follow-up is done with radiography every 6 months. MRI can be performed to determine the level and angles of scoliosis and in patients who require surgical intervention.
How is scoliosis treated?
While planning the treatment of the disease, the rate of progression is taken into consideration. The main treatment methods are:
Scoliosis exercises and physical therapy,
• continuous monitoring and follow-up,
Scoliosis brace,
• surgical intervention.
Physical therapy in scoliosis; With the SCHROTH METHOD, which includes 3D exercises, curvatures can be reduced / stopped with a treatment / exercise program prepared according to the curvature.
The type of scoliosis brace is determined by the physician and can be changed during the controls, if needed. It is important that the treatment is regular and the patient is conscious. Exercise program is done in physical therapy units.
Surgical treatment in scoliosis is applied to patients whose curvature level is above 40 (50) degrees, and who progresses despite the brace and exercise program. In some cases, repeated surgeries may be required.