Understanding Scoliosis in Children: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

Scoliosis is a condition that causes an abnormal curve in the spine.  While it can affect individuals of all ages, it is most commonly diagnosed in children and adolescents.  Early detection and intervention are crucial to managing scoliosis, as untreated cases can lead to further complications.  In this blog post, we’ll explore what scoliosis is, how it affects children, its causes, symptoms, and available treatment options.

What is Scoliosis?

Scoliosis is a sideways curvature of the spine, typically occurring in an “S” or “C” shape when the spine is viewed from the back.  Scoliosis symptoms can vary and include uneven shoulders, back pain and/or discomfort, ribs, shoulder, and/or hips sticking out on one side, leaning on one side, and more.

Types of Scoliosis in Children

Scoliosis in children is generally categorised into three main types:

1. Idiopathic Scoliosis: The most common form of scoliosis in children, idiopathic scoliosis has no known cause.  It usually develops during the growth spurt just before or during puberty, affecting both boys and girls, though it’s more common in girls.
2. Congenital Scoliosis: This form of scoliosis is present at birth and results from a problem with the formation of the spine during foetal development.
3. Neuromuscular Scoliosis: This type occurs due to an underlying condition that affects the nerves and muscles, such as cerebral palsy, muscular dystrophy, or spinal cord injuries.

Causes and Risk Factors

While the exact cause of idiopathic scoliosis remains unknown, several factors may increase the likelihood of a child developing scoliosis.  These include:

• Age: Scoliosis is most commonly diagnosed in children between the ages of 10 and 15 during periods of rapid growth.
• Gender: Girls are more likely than boys to develop scoliosis, and they are at higher risk for the curve worsening as they reach puberty.
• Family History: Scoliosis can run in families, so if a child has a relative with the condition, they may be at higher risk.
• Underlying Conditions: Certain genetic conditions, such as cerebral palsy or muscular dystrophy, can lead to neuromuscular scoliosis.

Symptoms of Scoliosis in Children

Scoliosis often develops slowly, and many children may not show obvious signs.  Some common symptoms to look for include:

• Uneven Shoulders: One shoulder may appear higher than the other, or one shoulder blade may protrude more.
• Asymmetrical Waistline: The waist may appear uneven, with one side being higher or more pronounced than the other.
• Uneven Hips: The hips may not be level, and one side may appear to stick out more, or be elevated on one side.
• Back Pain: Although back pain is not always prevalent in children with scoliosis, it can occur in severe cases, especially as they approach adulthood.

In some cases, scoliosis progresses without noticeable symptoms.

How Scoliosis is Diagnosed

The diagnosis of scoliosis typically begins with a physical examination.  A medical professional will look for signs of spinal curvature, such as asymmetry in the shoulders, hips, or waist.  If scoliosis is suspected, the child may be referred for imaging tests, such as an X-ray or MRI, to determine the degree of the curve and whether it is progressing. At Scoliosis SOS we would use the Diers 4D Formetric Scanner to help us assess the severity of the patient’s posture giving us a clear indication of the type of treatment programme would be most beneficial for the patient.

Diagnosing Scoliosis in Children

If your child is showing any of the symptoms mentioned above, you can assess them using the Adams Forward Bending Test:

1. Have your child remove their top and stand behind them so you can clearly see their back.
2. Observe your child’s shoulders, ribs, legs, neck, hips, and waist.  If any of these areas appear noticeably uneven (tilted to one side), it could indicate scoliosis.
3. Ask your child to bend forward at the waist as though they are trying to touch their toes.
4. Examine your child’s back—does one side of the rib cage appear significantly more prominent than the other?

 

Treatment Options for Scoliosis

The treatment for scoliosis in children depends on the severity of the curvature, the child’s age, and whether the curve is progressing. Some of the most common treatment options include:

• Physiotherapy
• Surgery
• Bracing

At Scoliosis SOS we offer specialised scoliosis physiotherapy treatment.  The method is called the ScolioGold method.  The ScolioGold method is designed to deliver gold-standard results, significantly improving posture, reducing curvature, and correcting habits that negatively impact the spine and core.  Combining Schroth therapy with other techniques, ScolioGold is personalised to meet the needs of each patient.

Preventing and Managing Scoliosis

Observation is vital when treating a young scoliosis patient.  It’s essential to determine whether the curve is progressing, improving, or remaining stable, as this will guide the appropriate treatment plan. The best approach is to take regular X-rays and monitor the patient over time before deciding on any necessary treatments.

For children who have scoliosis, staying active and engaged in physical therapy can help manage the condition.  Exercises that focus on strengthening the back and core muscles can improve posture and support spinal alignment.

Recent research conduct in Germany and presented at the SOSORT conference last month, on the Impact of Physical Activity on Scoliosis outcomes in Adolescents with AIS: The Role of Exercise Duration and Sport Type, has shown that regular physical activity exceeding 2.5 hours per week positively influences scoliosis outcomes, with gymnastics and dance showing significant benefits for AIS patients.

Conclusion

Scoliosis in children is a condition that, if caught early, can be effectively managed. Parents should be aware of the signs and seek medical advice if they suspect their child has scoliosis.  With timely intervention, most children with scoliosis lead normal, active lives.

If you suspect your child may have scoliosis, don’t hesitate to contact us at Scoliosis SOS.  Early detection and management are key to minimising the impact of scoliosis and ensuring a healthy future for your child.  Book an Initial Consultation appointment with one of our scoliosis consultants, to discuss any concerns you may have and get your questions answered.