Every parent’s priority is to ensure their children are leading a healthy, happy life. Amongst the many health concerns that can emerge in a child’s developmental stages, scoliosis is a common condition that requires much attention. It progresses slowly, meaning it can sometimes remain under the radar for some considerable time before detection.
Characterized by an unmistakable curvature, this condition can be controlled when identified early. It’s vital to get a comprehensive overview as a parent on what a journey with scoliosis is all about. This blog post shares essential insights regarding scoliosis that parents should understand.
Understanding Scoliosis and the Types
Scoliosis is a medical condition characterized by an abnormal lateral curvature of the spine. It can take various forms. These include the following:
- Idiopathic ( unknown cause)
- Neuromuscular ( resulting from neurological or muscular conditions) and
- Congenital scoliosis (present at birth)
Common symptoms in children include:
- Uneven shoulders
- A noticeable curve in the spine
- One hip higher than the other
In some cases, children might also experience back pain and discomfort.
Causes and Risk Factors
Since most cases fall into the idiopathic class, meaning there is no known cause, more research is being done to identify the specific reasons behind the abnormal lateral curvatures. Congenital scoliosis is also common, which is basically malformations that happen during birth.
Neurological disorders including cerebral palsy and muscular dystrophy can also cause problems. When these disorders affect the back’s muscles and nerves, neuromuscular scoliosis often results. Genetic factors are the leading risk factor, meaning chances are higher when there have been several cases running through the family. Being at the growth spurt physical developmental stages also increases the chances, this means toddlers and adolescents are at a higher risk.
Early Detection and Screening
Routine check-ups, especially during childhood and adolescence, are essential as they help identify scoliosis early when the spine is still growing. Scheduling physical examinations is a sure way of detecting even the slightest changes, this will prevent the worsening of any potential issue. It’s also important to be observant of any tell-tale signs, like a change in sting or standing posture.
Screening procedures like the Adam’s Forward Bend Test, where the child bends forward to reveal any spinal asymmetry, are commonly used. Radiographic imaging, like X-rays and MRI scans, confirms the diagnosis and determines the severity of the curvature, guiding appropriate treatment strategies.
Treatment Options
The severity and progression of the curvature dictate the appropriate remedy to try. Orthopedic specialists often consider the non-invasion first, especially when the cases are mild. For instance, they may give you physical therapy to strengthen the spinal muscles, which can efficiently slow the curvature progression.
Bracing is another common method when dealing with moderate scoliosis. The braces are engineered to bring a gradual realignment of the spine. It’s important to guide your child on using them for the required daily hours. The best specialists will also tailor scoliosis treatment solutions to an individual’s needs. An individualized approach helps make the recovery fast and long-term. Invasive methods can be necessary if all the conventional ones fail to bring the desired results.
Living with Scoliosis
Scoliosis sometimes involves problems with school and social life, especially if the child fears being stigmatized by brace wear or has to miss school frequently from appointments. Parents should communicate clearly with staff at their child’s school to ensure that the situation is clearly understood and appropriate deliberations made.
It is also essential to create a supportive environment in the home, involve the child in scoliosis support groups, and link them up with those who understand the experiences. Contrary to some misguided beliefs, children with scoliosis can and should continue participating in physical activities. These physical activities will benefit overall health and may also strengthen the muscles surrounding the spine.
Endnote
Having a child with scoliosis needs proactive steps to ensure they lead a comfortable, fulfilling life. The critical thing is prioritizing the detection to allow early interventions. It’s also essential to create a robust support system so that they feel confident in themselves.
Read more: Top 5 Barriers to Integrating Behavioral Health and Primary Care
