About 3 % of people in the United States are affected by scoliosis. It is a spinal deformity involving an abnormal curvature in the spine. Studio City scoliosis specialists at Pain Relief Center Studio City specializes in managing this condition in adults as it is more prevalent with this group of people. However, scoliosis is diagnosed in children and teens in most cases, and the treatment aims at preventing the progression of the deformity.
Although most of the scoliosis cases are mild, some spine deformities can become severe with age. Scoliosis itself does not cause pain, but most people, particularly adults, experience back pain due to degenerative changes in the spine due to age.
Causes of Scoliosis
To date, the exact cause of the most prevalent types of scoliosis is not known. However, the disorder has been found to run in families, making it appear like it involves hereditary factors. However, the following factors can be associated with less common types of scoliosis.
· Infections or injuries to the spine
· Congenital disabilities that affect spine bone development
· Neuromuscular infirmities such as muscular dystrophy and cerebral palsy
Scoliosis Symptoms
Some of the signs and symptoms of scoliosis include:
· One hip higher than the other
· Uneven waist
· One shoulder blade seems more prominent than others
· Uneven shoulders
Additionally, your scoliosis can worsen, causing the spine to rotate or twist. This can cause your ribs on one of your sides to stick out further than the other side.
Time to See a Doctor
If you discern any of the above signs and symptoms in your child or yourself, it will help to seek immediate medical attention. However, note that mild cases may be difficult to notice as they happen gradually and do not cause pain. In most cases, the condition will be noted as it advances. However, teachers, friends, sports coaches, and teammates can notice the condition in your child through the time spent together.
Scoliosis Diagnosis
After booking an appointment with your doctor, they will initially evaluate your medical history and can ask questions concerning your recent growth. Your provider also performs a physical exam. You may be required to stand and bend forward from your waist. Your doctor can also perform a neurological exam to check for muscle weakness, numbness, and abnormal reflexes.
Your provider can also perform imaging testing, including plain x-rays, to confirm the diagnosis and outline the spinal curvature’s severity. Additional imaging tests such as an MRI can be recommended if your provider suspects an underlying condition.
Scoliosis Treatment
There are set guidelines for each case of scoliosis, whether mild, moderate, or severe. However, treatment decisions are made on individual levels where every treatment option is customized to meet your unique needs. The treatment options include:
Braces: This is one of the standard options used to manage scoliosis. Although it doesn’t cure or reverse the condition, wearing a brace prevents further progression of the condition.
Surgery: This option is for the most severe cases to reduce the severity of the spinal curve and prevent it from getting worse.
Facts About Scoliosis
· Often, scoliosis is diagnosed in children, although the treatment and monitoring can be lifelong.
· It is proven that early interventions yield the best results in managing scoliosis.
· Scoliosis itself doesn’t cause pain, but the changes in the spine can contribute to back pain.
· Surgery can be a treatment option for scoliosis, although bracing is the primary treatment option.
To learn about your special care for scoliosis, you can reach out to your provider at Pain relief Center Studio City. Dr. Ron Marinaro, DC, is more than willing to offer you the support you deserve.
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