Ten Facts to Know About Scoliosis
Dr Evren Fehmi Atay, an Orthopedic and Traumatology Surgeon, explains what you need to know about scoliosis, a condition that is typically noticed in childhood and may require surgical intervention if left untreated.
1. Pay attention to the S shape in the spine!
Scoliosis is the curvature of the spine. When looking at someone’s back with scoliosis, you can see their spine curves like an S shape. It is essential to seek professional advice if this curvature is noticed.
2. Common in girls
The prevalence of scoliosis is observed to be higher in females than males.
3. Occurs in childhood
The causes of scoliosis can vary. It may be congenital due to bone problems or idiopathic, where the cause is unknown. Idiopathic scoliosis often occurs at the age of 11 or 12.
4. Pain increases as we age
Pain associated with scoliosis tends to worsen as one ages, particularly due to the onset of osteoporosis.
5. Surgical intervention may be necessary
In cases of scoliosis with spinal curvatures over 20 degrees, follow-up is required. Besides monitoring, surgical intervention may be necessary for curvatures above 40 degrees. For curvatures over 60 degrees, surgical intervention is inevitable.
6. The importance of teaching how to live with scoliosis
It’s advisable to offer guidance on how to live with non-surgical scoliosis through training. Specifically, it’s suggested that children avoid carrying heavy bags, sitting for extended periods in front of the computer, and carrying bags on one shoulder to prevent further complications.
7. Benefits of Swimming
Scoliosis can be corrected through physical exercise. Recommended exercises for scoliosis include swimming and pull-up exercises.
8. It may trigger other diseases
The fundamental role of the spine is to support upright posture and to serve as a safeguarding conduit for the nerves emanating from the brain. Scoliosis, a condition characterized by lateral curvature of the spine, can lead to not only postural irregularities but also pain and sensory-motor dysfunction resulting from nerve stretching. Additionally, scoliosis can have systemic ramifications, such as inducing heart rhythm disturbances due to curvatures in the rib cage area.
9. The importance of family attention
Family attention is crucial for diagnosing scoliosis in children. While many scoliosis patients are diagnosed during school health screenings, family members are typically the first to spot disorders in children’s spines.
10. Ways to have a Stronger, Healthier Spine
Engaging in regular physical activities suitable for your age and body type is essential to achieve a stronger spine. Sleeping on a quality bed with proper sleeping positions is also recommended. To reduce the strain on your spine, spend less time using devices such as computers, tablets or phones. If you must use them frequently, consider doing desk exercises to stretch your muscles and improve your posture.