Scoliosis

Scoliosis is a lateral curve or angular deviation from the normal straight position of the spine as viewed from behind. It has two main types, the functional scoliosis and the the structural scoliosis.

It is a functional type of scoliosis when it is basically due to a tilting of the pelvis, such as with short lower extremity on one side or a contracture of the hip or knee. A protruded disc can also cause scoliosis . There are no structural changes in the vertebrae involved in the curvature. The management on this type of scoliosis is directed towards the etiology.

It is a functional type of scoliosis when it is basically due to a tilting of the pelvis, such as with short lower extremity on one side or a contracture of the hip or knee. A protruded disc can also cause scoliosis . There are no structural changes in the vertebrae involved in the curvature. The management on this type of scoliosis is directed towards the etiology.

On the other hand, the structural type of scoliosis is grouped into congenital, secondary and idiopathic. In the congenital variety, the child may be born with one or more vertebral body defects usually associated with fused ribs.

Poliomyelitis patients without spinal deformity may develop a secondary type of scoliosis years after the infection.

Another condition that may caused secondary scoliosis is empyema or thoracoplasty. The idiopathic group has remained an orthopedic problem. The cause remains unclear. This is more common in females than in males and may appear between ages 10-12 years. This condition is more often missed not until the parent notices the deformity during adolescence.

Early recognition and diagnosis is very important to avoid progression of the curvature that could worsen up to the end of the growth period, 13 years in girls and 14 years in boys. Referral to the bone specialists can be done early and can make assessments every three months on the progression of the curvature. If the curvature worsens, proper procedures are best done as close to the end of the growth period as possible.