When does scoliosis require Treatment?

Scoliosis is a medical condition in which the spine is curved sideways. This curve may be stable or may increase in with time.

The most common cause of scoliosis is genetic. However, it may also occur as a complication of

• Muscle spasms
• Cerebral palsy
• Marfan’s syndrome
• Neurofibromatosis

You must consult your doctor if you notice any abnormality in the posture, which may include:

• Tilt in the eye-line
• Uneven shoulders- One shoulder blade is more prominent than the other
• Tilted rib cage
• One of the hip is more pronounced that the other
• Mild to moderate limping
• Body leans to one side
• One leg is shorter the other

Treatment

A majority of the cases of scoliosis do not need any treatment as long as they cause any discomfort. Only periodic monitoring is required in such cases.

Treatment of scoliosis depends of various factors including :

• Age of the patient
• Bone age of the patient
• Location of the curve
• Degree of the curve
• Gender of the patient
• Status of puberty
• Associated symptoms like back pain or shortness of breath

Forms of treatment

Braces

This is mostly used in children with a moderate degree of scoliosis. Bracing works only when the bone is still in the growing phase. It does not reverse the condition but prevents further progression of the curve. It can be worn both day or night. The effect of braces increases by increasing the time duration for which the braces are born. Even though the children can do most of the physical activities, there might be few restraints. In that case, the child may take off the brace. Braces are discontinued when the growth phase of a child stops.

Casting

This is done at infantile stage. A cast made of Plaster of Paris is used a permanent brace. This helps the spine to go back to its normal position. The cast is attached to the patient’s body and changed regularly as the growth takes place rapidly.

Surgery

1. One of the most common surgeries performed is spinal fusion. Two or more vertebrae of the spine are connected to each other so that they cannot move independently. This is done with the help of metal rods, hooks, screws or wires that can hold the spine straight.
2. If the condition is progressively worsening, a rod can be installed that is adjustable in length as the child grows. The rod is attached to the top and bottom section of the spine and lengthened every 6 months.

Cost: The cost of scoliosis surgery in India is highly reasonable as compared to that in other countries.

Other than these treatments, chiropractic manipulation, dietary supplements and exercise can also prevent the condition from worsening. The best spine surgeons in India are available to deal with all kinds of cases related to scoliosis. Platforms like Vaidam Health help international patients in everything from getting a medical visa to complete recovery of the patient.