Scoliosis is a condition where the spine curves sideways, creating a shape that resembles an “S” or “C” instead of being straight. This condition can range from mild to severe, often developing during childhood or adolescence but sometimes appearing later in life.
A typical spine is perfectly vertical, so if your spine looks like an “S,” then you probably have scoliosis. Here are some common signs that this diagnosis is appropriate for you, and spine surgery could be the solution for you.
Signs Scoliosis Might Be Affecting You
- Uneven clothing fit, like one pant leg appearing longer, can be an early sign of scoliosis.
- Scoliosis can make breathing harder by limiting lung expansion and reducing airflow.
- A visible rib hump, especially when bending forward, may indicate a spinal curve.
- Chronic back pain, even if mild, could mean scoliosis and not just poor posture.
- Early detection in children is key, as scoliosis can worsen with growth.
Your Clothes Don’t Fit Right? It Could Be a Sign of Scoliosis
When your spine isn’t straight, your clothes aren’t going to fit you the way they would for someone without scoliosis. For example, you might notice that your neckline, shirt sleeves, hemline, and pant legs are all uneven.
You also might notice that one side of your shirt is always wrinkled and the other isn’t. Finally, one of your shoe’s soles might wear out faster than the other, indicating that your spine is curved.
Struggling to Breathe? How Scoliosis Affects Lung Function
You may experience shortness of breath sometimes, and that might be a result of scoliosis. You might feel uncomfortable when you try to take a deep breath or even feel smothered. This could be due to the fact that scoliosis can limit for rib cage expansion, inhibiting your lung function.
If you notice persistent breathing difficulties, especially during physical activity or while lying down, it’s important to talk to a specialist. A neurosurgeon or spine specialist can assess whether your scoliosis is affecting your respiratory function and recommend solutions such as physical therapy, bracing, or in some cases, surgery.
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Noticing a Rib Hump? What It Means for Your Spine
When most people stand up straight, their rib cage is aligned with their legs. For someone with scoliosis, the rib cage kind of sticks out. It almost looks like you’re sticking your pelvis out when you stand. This is known as rib prominence, and it’s very apparent in adults who have scoliosis.
You also might notice that one side of your rib cage pop out more than the other, making your body look uneven. That’s due to the curve in your spine.
Is Your Back Pain More Than Just Bad Posture?
In most cases, scoliosis does not limit movement or cause noticeable back pain until the curve becomes severe. That said, unexplained backaches are a hallmark symptom of scoliosis, and 90% of scoliosis patients report feeling back pain. As the spine curves, it places pressure on the nerves and can cause lower back pain, weakness, numbness, and pain in the lower extremities as well.
According to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, roughly 80% of adults will experience lower back pain at some point in their lives. If you have lower back pain, it could be a sign of scoliosis or other degenerative spine disorders like herniated discs, bulging discs, or pinched nerves. Contact your doctor today if you are experiencing any of these symptoms.
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How to Tell If Your Child Has Scoliosis
Noticing small changes in your child’s posture could be the first sign of scoliosis. One of the most common clues is uneven shoulders, where one appears higher than the other. You might also see a slight spinal curvature when they stand or bend forward. While some cases are mild, the severity of scoliosis can vary, and early detection is important to prevent it from worsening. In many cases, the exact causes of scoliosis are unknown, but some children are born with it, which is known as congenital scoliosis.
If you suspect scoliosis, a doctor can check for signs and recommend further tests if needed. Mild curves may only need monitoring, while more noticeable ones might require braces or other treatments. Since scoliosis can develop gradually, regular checkups are key to catching changes early and ensuring your child gets the right care.
Adult-Onset Scoliosis: What You Need to Know
Scoliosis in adults often develops due to aging and spine degeneration, known as degenerative scoliosis. It can cause lower back pain, stiffness, and difficulty standing or walking. Some adults had mild scoliosis in youth that worsened over time, while others developed it later.
A doctor can check for scoliosis through a physical exam, looking for uneven shoulders, posture changes, or muscle weakness. Treatment focuses on pain relief and mobility, often with physical therapy or non-surgical options. Early detection helps prevent further discomfort.
What Are Your Treatment Options for Scoliosis?
Treatment for scoliosis depends on the severity of scoliosis, age, and symptoms. Mild cases may only require monitoring through regular checkups. If the curve progresses, a doctor might recommend a back brace, especially for children and teens, to prevent it from worsening. Physical therapy can help strengthen muscles and improve posture, reducing discomfort.
For severe cases or when scoliosis causes pain or breathing issues, surgery like corrective spinal fusion surgery may be needed to straighten and stabilize the spine. The goal of this procedure is to fuse together two or more vertebrae in order to prevent further curve progression.
If you’re considering spine surgery talk to your doctor about the different procedures available. Your surgeon may recommend one over another based on your particular condition.