children s health issues
Scoliosis
Introduction
Scoliosis is abnormal curvature of the spine. Scoliosis can be present at birth or can develop during adolescence. Mild forms may cause only mild discomfort, but more severe forms can cause chronic pain or affect internal organs. The diagnosis is based on an examination and x-rays. Not all forms of scoliosis worsen, but those that do must be treated as soon as possible to prevent a severe deformity. Braces or surgery may be needed to straighten the spine. (See also Overview of Bone Disorders in Children .) Scoliosis is relatively common and occurs in 2 to 4% of children aged 10 to 16 years. Boys and girls are affected equally. However, in girls, scoliosis is 10 times more likely to progress and require bracing or surgery. Scoliosis may result from hereditary causes, birth defects, or injuries or develop later in life, most often in early adolescence. Usually, the cause cannot be identified (called idiopathic scoliosis). The spine usually bulges toward the right when the curvature is in the upper back and to the left when it is in the lower back. The result is that the right shoulder is usually higher than the left. One hip may be higher than the other. The chest may not be symmetrical. Scoliosis often develops in children with Kyphosis . The combination is called kyphoscoliosis. 