Scoliosis often lurks unseen. This spine condition can easily be overlooked in children and teens, especially during the colder months when bulky clothing can disguise changes. In adults, it can be wrongly attributed to commonplace back pain, natural aging, or ordinary wear and tear. As a leading member of Scolicare in Charlotte, NC and in recognition of June being Scoliosis Awareness Month, I, Dr. Natalie Otoya of Simply Move Chiropractic, am eager to emphasize the importance of early detection and intervention for scoliosis treatment, especially in adolescents.
Understanding Scoliosis
Let’s begin by unraveling what scoliosis entails. This condition prompts the spine to curve and rotate, often asymmetrically. Scoliosis can vary in intensity, causing slight to severe curvature, and it does not discriminate based on age; infants, children, adolescents, and adults can all be affected.
Scoliosis manifestations range from barely perceptible curvatures to those severe enough to cause structural alterations to the trunk and spine, potentially leading to various health complications. A visible curve, uneven shoulders or hips, a protruding shoulder blade, or a forward-leaning posture can be signs of a developing scoliosis. Additionally, a familial history of scoliosis is another valid reason to seek an evaluation.
The Value of Early Detection in Adolescent Scoliosis Treatment
Identifying scoliosis early broadens the scope for intervention and treatment, particularly in adolescents. Early detection implies a greater variety of treatment possibilities, including non-surgical, conservative options. One such approach is a specific exercise rehabilitation program, such as the evidence-based ScoliBalance®, designed to manage minor curves. Along with scoliosis bracing, this ranks as one of the most non-invasive treatments available to patients [1-5].
For those curves that are discovered later or do not respond sufficiently to specific exercise programs, scoliosis bracing becomes the primary line of defense. In extreme cases, surgery might be deemed necessary. A well-constructed, customized 3D scoliosis brace, like ScoliBrace®, aims to halt scoliosis progression and, when feasible, straighten the spine, helping to potentially circumvent the need for surgery in young patients. A considerable volume of literature corroborates the effectiveness of scoliosis bracing, particularly for growing children, with a seminal study revealing that most adolescents who underwent scoliosis bracing did not eventually require surgery [6].
The Impact of Modern Technology in Scoliosis Treatment
Modern technological advancements, such as 3D body scanning and custom 3D brace design, have ushered in a more personalized approach to scoliosis treatment. This allows patients, especially adolescents, with a significant scoliosis detected early enough, to have a high likelihood of curve reduction. Tailored braces, designed with the patient’s specific measurements and objectives in mind, not only optimize effectiveness but also enhance the patient’s comfort.
This technology is not limited to adolescents; even very young children, including infants, can gain rapid benefits from scoliosis bracing. For adults, it offers a long-term solution that provides support, reduces pain, improves posture, and elevates overall quality of life.
Consequences of Ignoring Scoliosis
Choosing to ignore scoliosis can carry grave consequences. In teenagers, untreated scoliosis curves exceeding 30 degrees are highly likely to progress [7]. Untreated scoliosis can cause uneven posture, a hunched back, height reduction, pain, and in severe instances, heart and lung issues. Once scoliosis has escalated to this stage, treatment becomes notably challenging.
The message is clear: early detection and intervention secure the best possible outcomes. As we observe Scoliosis Awareness Month, I implore everyone in the Charlotte, NC community to encourage regular checks for scoliosis signs in friends and family. Let us be proactive in our approach to this condition, ensuring early detection and getting ahead of the curve.
Sources:
1. Monticone M, et al. Eur Spine J. 2014 Jun;23(6):1204-14.
2. Negrini A, et al. Scoliosis. 2015; 10: 20.
3. Zhou Z, et al. Complement Ther Med. 2021 May;58:102697
4. Weinstein S. J Pediatr Orthop. 2019 Jul;39(Issue 6, Supplement 1 Suppl 1):S44-S46.
5. Negrini S, et al. Scoliosis. 2006 Apr 10;1:4. doi: 10.1186/1748-7161-1-4.
6. Weinstein S, et al. N Engl J Med. 2013 Oct 17;369(16):1512-21.
7. Asher A, Burton D. Scoliosis. 2006 Mar 31;1(1):2. doi: 10.1186/1748-7161-1-2.
