1. How do I know if I have scoliosis?
Uneven
shoulders or hips, or asymmetry of the contour of the back (which is more
obvious with forward bending) can be visual tip-offs that scoliosis is
present. Also, individuals with a family
history of scoliosis are more likely to have scoliosis. Assessment by primary care physicians can
typically identify an individual with these types of body asymmetry and, if any
is detected, a single radiograph (x-ray) from the front/back of the thoracic
and lumbar spine (from collar bones to hips) is indicated to definitively
diagnose scoliosis.
2. Is there someone I can talk to who has scoliosis?
Yes, we can
connect you with other individuals (patients, parents, caregivers) who would be
willing to discuss the issues and problems of scoliosis on a first-hand basis.
3. Is scoliosis caused by not drinking enough milk or eating
too much junk food?
No, though
both of these may impact the long-term health of the spine by decreasing the
overall bone mass of the body. Low spinal
bone mass as an adolescent can become magnified in one’s 60’s, 70’s and 80’s
and can increase the risk of osteoporotic spinal fractures.
4. Does scoliosis hurt?
Mild scoliosis
does not cause pain. Moderate to severe
scoliosis can increase the likelihood of activity-related musculoskeletal pain.
5. Why do kids get scoliosis?
The cause
of “garden-variety” scoliosis is unknown.
Some researchers have found an association between scoliosis and a very
subtle form of neurological abnormality which has no outward manifestations
besides the scoliosis. Current research
is ongoing to identify the specific genes responsible for scoliosis.
6. What are the goals and expectations of scoliosis surgery?
The classic
type of scoliosis surgery is a spinal fusion.
In this surgery a segment of the spine is corrected to the optimal 3-d
alignment and then fused to eliminate motion between the vertebral body
segments. At the time of surgery the malalignment
of the spine is corrected as much as possible toward normal alignment. The use of spinal implants (metal screws,
hooks and rods) permits straightening of the spine and also maintains the
correction as the spine fusion heals after surgery. Newer techniques for correction of scoliosis
which do not “fuse” the spine are in the development (vertebral body tether and
Apifix) and early adoption phase and hopefully will decrease the need for
spinal fusions.
7. How much correction do you expect to achieve at the time
of spine fusion?
The amount
of correction depends on multiple patient factors: patient age, curve size,
location and flexibility, presence of other curves, concomitant medical
problems, previous surgery, etc.... Judicious
correction of the scoliosis is always indicated as overcorrection of the spine
can lead to temporary or permanent neurological injury, such as nerve root
deficits or paralysis.
