June is Scoliosis Awareness Month! Gillette expert Danielle Harding, PA-C breaks down five things to know if you or a loved one have been diagnosed with this common spine condition.
1. There is more than one type of scoliosis.
Scoliosis is a sideways curve of the spine. This is a common condition that can leave the spine looking like an “S” or a “C,” rather than a straight line down the back. Some curves in the spine are normal and help with balance and the ability to stand upright—it is a sideways curvature of the spine that indicates scoliosis.
2. You did not do anything to cause scoliosis.
The exact reason why your spine curved remains unknown, that’s what “idiopathic” means – that we don’t know why it occurs. We know there is some basis in genetics. A recent theory involves the front of the spine growing faster than the back of the spine, causing a rotating and twisting of the spine.
It is not from wearing a heavy backpack; it is not from a “wrong” sleep position; it is not from having poor posture. There was nothing you could have done to prevent getting scoliosis.
3. Back pain is not a typical symptom.
Most people with scoliosis do not report pain; those that do report pain, typically report only mild pain. Severe or constant pain is not a typical symptom of scoliosis.
You or your parent may have noticed one or more of the following changes in your appearance:
- Chest shifted to one side
- One shoulder blade more noticeable than other
- Asymmetry (unevenness) of the waist
- Clothes fit unevenly
- One shoulder is higher than other
- One hip is higher than other
- Asymmetry of front torso
You may not have noticed any changes in your appearance, but your healthcare provider did when you had your check-up. Your provider may have asked you to do a forward bend exam, which can show spine abnormalities. This is called the Adam’s Forward Bend Test.
The diagnosis of scoliosis is made based upon physical exam, family history of scoliosis, and x-ray of the spine.
4. All curves are different.
Most patients with mild scoliosis at skeletal maturity (when the spine is no longer growing) will lead a normal life with no limitations on activities, including sports.
However, for patients with more significant curves, there is a higher likelihood that the curve will continue to progress into adulthood. Although it will progress slowly, throughout a lifetime this can add up to a significant curve which can be more difficult to correct and have an impact on quality of life.
5. Gillette is the best place for scoliosis treatment and diagnosis.
If your child has scoliosis, Gillette Children’s can help. Gillette is a nationally and internationally recognized leader in pediatric orthopedics and in the treatment of pediatric spine conditions, including scoliosis.
Whether your child has idiopathic, neuromuscular or congenital scoliosis, the primary goal of any treatment is to stop the curve from getting worse. Regardless of severity, scoliosis pain is rare. In many cases, surgery isn’t necessary if scoliosis is detected early and your child receives proper care.
Treatment of scoliosis varies depending on a patient’s age, the degree and pattern of spinal curvature, and the type of scoliosis.
Learn more about the scoliosis diagnosis and treatment options offered at Gillette.
Read patients stories and find more resources on our Spine Awareness Page.
Meet a care team provider, find a location, learn how to get a second opinion, and more.
Request an appointment to connect with Gillette providers.
Do these symptoms sound familiar? Our 30-minute consult appointment could help get answers.
