What is Scoliosis

Scoliosis is the neuro-muscular condition that causes the spine to curve sideways. Unlike a normal person whose spine is straight, a person with Scoliosis has his spine curved at an abnormal angle. The degree of the curve may vary depending upon the severity, but anything above 10 degrees is considered a case of Scoliosis

An abnormal curve of the spine is the most common and important sign of Scoliosis. Important because this change is so mild to notice that it is easy to miss and is not easily noticed until it becomes into a severe deformity. As the condition slowly progresses, following signs may become apparent:

1. Head appears slightly off-centre and the eye-line is tilted.
2. Slightly uneven shoulder level.
3. Pain in the shoulders and lower back.
4. Uneven waistline and one hip higher than the other.

After careful examination, a Doctor Physician determines the possible treatment option depending upon the location and severity of the curve, age and growing years of the patient.

Scoliosis can affect anyone from a baby to an adult, but it often appears in children aged 10-14. The effects are mild in most children, as the curve corrects itself with the help of physiotherapy and bracing. But some of the children may develop spine deformities that continue to grow severe, as they grow making bracing infeasible or ineffective. Surgical Treatment for Scoliosis is the recommended option as it straightens the curve significantly, stops the curve from growing.

Here’s our consultant Children and Adult Spinal Surgeon, Mr. Jwalant S Mehta discussing the surgical procedure - Scoliosis Correction Surgery for Adolescents and Adults.