Did you know curvature of the spine is called Scoliosis? Scoliosis is a condition of the spinal skeleton, visibly identified by a ‘S’ or ‘C’ shaped deformity of the spine. Idiopathic Scoliosis, is the most common form & adolescents are generally affected.
Scoliosis – Curvature of the Spine
Typically, Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis (AIS) will present during early adolescent growth spurt phases. The underlying mechanism of the condition is unknown; however, genetics may play a role. The degree of curvature varies from person to person, as does the impact of the condition. In cases of Scoliosis left unmanaged, degenerative changes to spinal mechanics may occur resulting in pain, reduced mobility and limited function.
Conservative non-surgical management may be implemented following physiotherapy assessment to determine the extent and impact of the curvature. A patient specific protocol for the treatment of scoliosis will typically involve specific exercises directed towards strengthening weak structures and lengthening shortened structures, in adjunct to general manual therapy physiotherapy treatment as required.
Where the angle of curvature exceeds 30 degrees and diagnosed as progressive in nature, bracing is recommended for adolescents. Curvature exceeding 45-50 degrees may require surgical intervention in cases where conservative management has not successfully altered spinal mechanics and associated affects.
At PROHEALTH PHYSIO, we specialise in scoliosis assessment and treatment. If you are experiencing scoliosis related pain, contact us to see one of our Physiotherapists to address your pain and develop evidence-based strategies with you to prevent future related pain.
For further information, please refer to:
Bettany‐Saltikov, J., Weiss, H.R., Chockalingam, N., Taranu, R., Srinivas, S., Hogg, J., Whittaker, V., Kalyan, R.V. and Arnell, T., 2015. Surgical versus non‐surgical interventions in people with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis. The Cochrane Library.
Płaszewski, M. and Bettany-Saltikov, J., 2014. Non-surgical interventions for adolescents with idiopathic scoliosis: an overview of systematic reviews. PloS one, 9(10), p.e110254.