1. What is scoliosis?

Scoliosis is a condition characterized by an abnormal lateral curvature of the spine. It often develops during the growth spurt just before puberty and can range from mild to severe cases.

2. What is the normal shape and function of the spine?

The normal spine has natural curves when viewed from the side, known as lordosis (inward curve at the neck and lower back) and kyphosis (outward curve at the upper back). When viewed from the back, the spine should appear straight. The spine supports the body's weight, allows flexible movement, and protects the spinal cord.

3. At what degree of curvature is scoliosis diagnosed?

Scoliosis is typically diagnosed when the lateral curvature of the spine measures 10 degrees or more on an X-ray, using the Cobb angle measurement method.

4. What is idiopathic scoliosis?

Idiopathic scoliosis is the most common type of scoliosis, which has no known specific cause. It accounts for about 80-85% of all scoliosis cases and typically arises in otherwise healthy children during their adolescent growth spurts.

5. Which medical department should one consult for scoliosis?

Patients with scoliosis should consult an orthopedic department, specifically a spine specialist or an orthopedic surgeon who specializes in spinal deformities.

6. What are the symptoms of scoliosis?

Symptoms of scoliosis can include uneven shoulders, one shoulder blade that appears more prominent than the other, an uneven waist, or one hip higher than the other. In severe cases, it may cause back pain and difficulty breathing due to reduced space in the chest for lung expansion.

7. What are the impacts of scoliosis?

Scoliosis can lead to physical discomfort, including back pain and muscle fatigue. In severe cases, it can cause respiratory issues due to reduced lung capacity, and psychological impacts due to visible deformities, affecting self-esteem and body image.

8. Does scoliosis worsen with age?

Scoliosis can worsen with age, particularly during periods of rapid growth, such as adolescence. In adults, progression can continue slowly, especially if untreated. Factors such as the degree of curvature and remaining growth potential influence progression.

9. What are the causes of scoliosis?

The causes of scoliosis can vary. Idiopathic scoliosis has no known cause, but other types may result from congenital spine deformities, neuromuscular conditions (such as cerebral palsy or muscular dystrophy), or degenerative spine diseases.

10. How is scoliosis diagnosed?

Scoliosis is diagnosed through a physical examination and confirmed with imaging tests. The physical exam may include the Adams forward bend test. Diagnostic imaging, such as X-rays, is used to measure the degree of spinal curvature using the Cobb angle method.

11. What are the treatment principles for scoliosis?

The treatment principles for scoliosis aim to prevent the progression of the curvature, reduce deformity, and alleviate symptoms. Treatment options depend on the severity of the curve, the age of the patient, and the likelihood of progression. They range from observation and bracing to surgical intervention.

12. How should mild scoliosis be treated?

Mild scoliosis (curves less than 20 degrees) is often treated with observation and regular check-ups to monitor any progression. Physical therapy may also be recommended to strengthen muscles and improve posture.

13. How should moderate scoliosis be treated?

Moderate scoliosis (curves between 20 and 40 degrees) is typically treated with bracing to prevent further progression. The brace must be worn for a specific number of hours each day, as prescribed by the doctor. In some cases, physical therapy may also be included in the treatment plan.

14. What are the commonly used braces in the treatment of scoliosis?

Commonly used braces for scoliosis include the Boston brace, the Milwaukee brace, the Charleston bending brace, and the Rigo-Chêneau brace. These braces differ in design and usage, but all aim to halt the progression of spinal curvature.

15. How effective is brace treatment for scoliosis?

Brace treatment is effective in preventing the progression of scoliosis in many cases, particularly when the patient is compliant with wearing the brace as prescribed. The effectiveness depends on factors such as the type of brace, the amount of time it is worn daily, and the severity and location of the curve.

16. How should severe scoliosis be treated?

Severe scoliosis (curves greater than 40 degrees) often requires surgical intervention to correct the curvature and stabilize the spine. Surgery may involve spinal fusion, where vertebrae are fused together to prevent further curvature, or the use of rods and screws to straighten the spine.

17. Is brace treatment effective for severe scoliosis?

Brace treatment is generally not effective for severe scoliosis, especially once the curvature exceeds 40 degrees. In such cases, surgery is typically the recommended treatment to correct the deformity and prevent further progression.

18. Why do some scoliosis patients not benefit from wearing a brace?

Some scoliosis patients may not benefit from wearing a brace due to factors such as late diagnosis when the curve is already severe, poor brace fit, non-compliance with wearing the brace as prescribed, or the type of scoliosis being resistant to brace treatment.

19. What is the purpose of surgical treatment for scoliosis?

The purpose of surgical treatment for scoliosis is to correct the spinal curvature, stabilize the spine, and prevent further progression. Surgery aims to reduce deformity, alleviate symptoms, and improve the patient’s overall quality of life.

20. How can scoliosis be prevented?

Scoliosis cannot always be prevented, especially idiopathic scoliosis. However, maintaining good posture, regular physical activity, and early detection through routine check-ups can help manage the condition and prevent severe progression.

21. How can parents detect scoliosis early in their children?

Parents can detect scoliosis early by regularly observing their child’s back for signs such as uneven shoulders, one shoulder blade protruding more than the other, uneven waist, or a leaning posture. If any abnormalities are noticed, they should consult a healthcare professional for further evaluation.

Thank you, Scoliovis-API. I have used the pre-trained model from this project.