What Is Scoliosis in Children? How Is It Treated?

What Is Scoliosis in Children? How Is It Treated?

Scoliosis refers to a true three dimensional curvature of the spine with a lateral deviation of more than 10 degrees. In children, scoliosis most commonly appears during adolescence, especially during periods of rapid growth. It usually presents as a curvature of the vertebrae in the lumbar or thoracic region. This condition can cause the spine to form a C or S shape instead of its normal alignment.

Scoliosis in children is examined under several categories. The most common type, listed first, is called idiopathic scoliosis, and its cause is not fully known.

The second most common type is neuromuscular scoliosis. Conditions such as cerebral palsy are included in this group.

Congenital scoliosis: This type of scoliosis results from developmental abnormalities of the spine and bone anomalies.

Another group is syndromic scoliosis, which refers to scoliosis associated with various syndromes.

Although the approach differs for each group, management should be based on an individualized, patient centered evaluation.

The most common type, idiopathic scoliosis, is further classified by age group as infantile (0–2 years), juvenile (3–9 years), adolescent (10–17 years), and adult (18 years and older).

The treatment of scoliosis may vary depending on the severity of the condition, the child’s age, and other factors. The treatment plan should be managed by a multidisciplinary team including the family, the child, spine surgeons, physiotherapists, physical medicine and rehabilitation physicians, psychiatrists, and psychologists.

Observation (Monitoring): In mild cases of scoliosis, doctors may monitor the child’s development and assess whether the curvature is increasing. During periods of rapid growth (the first 3 years of life and adolescence), follow up is typically performed every 3 months, and every 6 months thereafter until growth is completed.

Physiotherapy: In certain cases of scoliosis, physiotherapists may recommend muscle strengthening and stretching exercises along with posture correction programs.

Conservative treatment: Special orthoses known as bracing may be used to prevent progression of scoliosis. These specialized braces aim to support and correct the child’s spine.

Surgical intervention: If scoliosis is severe or if other treatment methods are not effective, surgical intervention may be considered. In growing children, surgical treatment should be performed using techniques that allow spinal growth, with definitive surgery planned after growth is completed.

Each case is unique, and the treatment plan should be determined individually. Therefore, it is important to consult a specialist to determine the most appropriate treatment option for a child’s scoliosis. With early diagnosis and appropriate treatment, most cases of scoliosis can be managed and do not negatively affect the child’s quality of life.