Why It's So Important to Catch Scoliosis Early

Scoliosis is a condition that causes your spine to curve sideways. It usually occurs in children, during the growth spurt right before puberty. In fact, approximately three percent of adolescents have scoliosis. The exact cause of scoliosis is unknown, though conditions like cerebral palsy and muscular dystrophy can make it worse. 

The majority of cases are diagnosed in children and usually fairly mild. However, if left untreated it can progress to a greater level of severity. At Advanced Spine and Pain, your health is our greatest priority. That’s why we’ve compiled this helpful guide to scoliosis and the importance of detecting and treating it early.

Symptoms of scoliosis 

Some early indicators of scoliosis include:

You may also notice a rotated or twisted spine. Your spine might also curve from side to side, which can make the ribs on one side of your body stick out more than the other. Sometimes, changes caused by scoliosis are so gradual that you don't notice anything at all.

While both sexes can develop scoliosis, adolescent girls are more at risk. Scoliosis can also potentially run in families, however, most children who develop scoliosis don’t have a family history.

Why it’s important to catch scoliosis early 

Scoliosis is a disease that can progress if left untreated. Part of the treatment includes close monitoring through X-rays to ensure the disease doesn’t worsen.

A 20-year study found that 40 percent of adults with scoliosis had their disease progress, with 10 percent displaying a significant worsening, and 30 percent displaying a mild worsening.

When scoliosis progresses and your spine becomes more curved this places a strain on your spine and spinal nerves. Your spine can narrow, thereby pinching your nerves and keeping them from functioning properly while causing pain and discomfort.  

The spine curvature that comes with scoliosis can also cause severe problems. It can progress to a point where it damages your lungs and heart, making it hard for you to breath and for your heart to pump blood throughout your body.

Prevent and treat scoliosis today

At Advanced Spine and Pain, we’re specialists in treating scoliosis. We’ll determine if you have the condition and measure its progression if you do. We can use mild treatment options like braces or, if the problem has progressed enough, we can discuss surgical options with you. 

Don’t let this mild condition progress to a debilitating level. Conveniently schedule an appointment right through our patient portal today.

You Might Also Enjoy...

Is PRP Right for Me?

Imagine if there were a treatment that supercharged your healing from many injuries and conditions that enlisted your body’s own healing capabilities. Believe it or not, it exists! It’s called platelet-rich plasma therapy, or PRP. Learn more here.
Consider These Risks When You Have a Microdiscectomy

Consider These Risks When You Have a Microdiscectomy

A herniated disc can cause severe pain, numbness, and weakness in more places than your spine and impair movement. When conservative treatments fail, microdiscectomy surgery is a viable solution — but it’s not without risks. Learn more here.
Will My Child Outgrow Scoliosis?

Will My Child Outgrow Scoliosis?

Scoliosis, or curvature of the spine, affects 100,000 children every year. Learn about symptoms, how to identify the condition in your child, what treatments are available for scoliosis, and if your child may simply outgrow it here.
Is Working From Home a Pain in Your Neck?

Is Working From Home a Pain in Your Neck?

Scores of people work from home now, but many experience “tech neck” stiffness and pain due to nonstop standing or sitting in front of a computer screen. Learn about tech neck symptoms and how to get relief here.
Why PRP Has Become a Popular Method of Treatment

Why PRP Has Become a Popular Method of Treatment

Chronic pain and inflammation from musculoskeletal injuries and conditions plague millions. Keep reading to learn how a game-changing treatment relieves pain and restores mobility for patients suffering from long-term discomfort.
Am I a Candidate for Epidural Steroid Injections?

Am I a Candidate for Epidural Steroid Injections?

Chronic pain, inflammation, and numbness from conditions like spinal stenosis, sciatica, and more can stop you in your tracks, lowering your quality of life. Learn about the advantages of epidural steroid injections and who they benefit most here.