CONDITIONS
Pediatric Scoliosis
Pediatric scoliosis is a sideways curvature of the spine that develops in children and adolescents. This curvature can resemble a "C" or "S" shape and most often affects the upper or middle back, although it can occur elsewhere. The most prevalent form, known as idiopathic scoliosis, has no known cause and accounts for the majority of scoliosis cases.
While idiopathic scoliosis may occur at any age, it commonly emerges during pre-adolescence and adolescence, coinciding with periods of rapid growth. This type of scoliosis presents in three distinct forms:
- Infantile idiopathic scoliosis (least common) affects babies from birth to age 3.
- Juvenile idiopathic scoliosis appears between ages 3 and 9.
- Adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (most common) is typically diagnosed between 10 and 18 years old. This growth spurt makes adolescents particularly susceptible to rapid curve progression.
Symptoms of Pediatric Scoliosis
While scoliosis in children typically does not cause pain, there are additional signs of the condition. Here are some common symptoms of pediatric scoliosis:
- Uneven shoulders One shoulder may appear higher than the other.
- Uneven shoulder blades One shoulder blade may protrude more noticeably than the other.
- Uneven waist The waist may appear uneven when bending forward at the hips.
- Uneven hips One hip may be higher than the other.
- Rib prominence The ribs on one side of the back may appear more prominent.
- Head not centered The head may not be centered over the pelvis.
- Leaning to one side The child may have a general appearance of leaning to one side.
Early detection and appropriate management are crucial in pediatric scoliosis to prevent progression and potential complications.
Diagnosis
Diagnosing pediatric scoliosis typically involves a two-pronged approach:
Physical Examination
- Medical and Family History Your doctor will inquire about your child's overall health and any family history of scoliosis.
- Posture Assessment Your doctor will visually assess your child's posture while standing and may ask them to bend forward at the hips to check for asymmetry in the back and ribs. This is also known as Adam’s forward bent test.
Imaging Tests
- X-rays This is the primary imaging tool used to diagnose scoliosis. X-rays provide clear images of the bones in the spine, allowing the doctor to determine the location, shape (C or S curve), and severity (measured by the Cobb angle) of the curvature.
In some rare cases, additional imaging tests like MRI scans or CT scans might be used for a more detailed examination.
Treatment
Treatment for pediatric scoliosis depends on the severity of the curve and your child’s age and growth stage. Here’s a breakdown of the most common treatment options:
- Observation For mild curves (less than 25 degrees) in young children who are still growing, doctors often recommend observation. This involves regular checkups with a scoliosis specialist to monitor the curve and assess if it progresses.
- Bracing For moderate curves (25-45 degrees) in growing children, bracing is the most common treatment. A custom-made brace is worn for a prescribed number of hours each day to help prevent the curve from worsening.
- Surgery For severe curves (greater than 45 degrees) that are progressing or causing health complications, scoliosis surgery might be recommended. Surgery aims to straighten the spine and prevent further curvature. There are different surgical techniques available, and the choice depends on factors like the location and severity of the curve.
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Contact
Our team at Avramis Spine & Scoliosis is here to help. To request an appointment or for any other inquiries, please fill out the form.
-
HOURS
MONDAY - FRIDAY • 8:30AM - 4:30PM
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LOCATION
GET IN TOUCH
Contact
Our team at Avramis Spine & Scoliosis is here to help. To request an appointment or for any other inquiries, please fill out the form.
-
HOURS
MONDAY - FRIDAY • 8:30AM - 4:30PM
-
LOCATION