Adolescent Scoliosis

Adolescent scoliosis is a hereditary condition, therefore it is recommended that all family members get checked. Fortunately, most cases of adolescent scoliosis are mild. Treatment for this condition is based on factors such as a child’s age, expected growth, and the degree and pattern of spine curvature. As a child’s spine develops, doctors observe adolescent patients with minor cases of scoliosis through periodic spinal exams. To prevent progression of curvature doctors often use bracing for patients, fitted to each spine to structurally correct and shape the spine. Doctors determine the amount of time the brace should be worn and duration that it is needed. In severe cases of scoliosis, doctors may recommend corrective surgery.

In order to detect for scoliosis, pediatricians routinely perform a spinal exam. If a problem is detected, a referral is made to a spine specialist for management. During a specialist’s evaluation, a careful review is made of the child’s medical history. The exam includes a visual inspection of the spine in the upright and bent over position, with careful attention paid to other causes of scoliosis, such as uneven leg length or muscle spasm. Finally, x-rays are obtained for precise measurements of the bones and angles between them (cobb angle). If scoliosis is mild, the patient is periodically measured to confirm that the deformity is not progressing. This is especially important during growth spurts.

Because the spine is developing, doctors observe adolescent patients with minor cases of scoliosis through periodic spinal exams to monitor the extent and rate of progression.