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What is Scoliosis?

''SCOLIOSIS'' is a common spinal condition affecting over 3 million people in the United States per year. In fact, approximately 2% – 3% of Americans aged 16 have it. Defined as a sideways curvature in the normally straight vertical path of the spine, scoliosis oftentimes surfaces during the rapid growth spurt just before puberty. Females tend to have a higher risk of developing this condition than males. Scoliosis There are four primary types of scoliosis, including: Neuromuscular Resulting from reduced muscle or nerve function, this form of scoliosis is usually seen in those with cerebral palsy, spina bifida or other conditions that are accompanied by paralysis. Neuromuscular scoliosis is also commonly referred to as myopathic scoliosis.Degenerative Degenerative scoliosis typically spurs from the thinning of the bones, caused by aging and general wear and tear. Unexpected injury or trauma can also cause this type of scoliosis. Usually occurring later in life, it is one of the few types of scoliosis that healthy patients may first begin to experience in adulthood.Congenital If a patient is born with a bone abnormality and they develop scoliosis as a result, their condition is considered congenital scoliosis. This ailment develops in the uterus and can be recognized during a child’s infancy. Congenital scoliosis is very rare, affecting only one in 10,000 children. However, those who suffer from this complication generally require corrective surgery.Idiopathic This type of scoliosis arises from no known cause. However, strong evidence suggests that this type of scoliosis can be inherited and has a genetic component. Scoliosis Types The severity of scoliosis depends upon the shape, location and direction of the intrusive curve. Lateral arcs are generally described as “S-shaped” curves or “C-shaped” curves, as they resemble the deviations of these letters. Other common terms used to indicate the details of a specific curvature include: Dextroscoliosis The most frequently occurring type of spinal curve, dextroscoliosis develops when the spine bends toward the right. This usually happens in the thoracic (middle back) area of the spine and may be isolated (forming a “C-shape) or be accompanied by another curve moving in the opposite direction in the lower spine (creating an “S-shape).Levoscoliosis A spinal curve to the left, levoscoliosis usually surfaces in the lumbar (lower back) region of the spine. However, when levoscoliosis does occur in the thoracic spine, it may indicate a spinal cord tumor. For this reason, it is important to diagnose levoscoliosis quickly.Thoracic Scoliosis In the majority of cases, scoliosis occurs in the middle (thoracic) spine.Lumbar Scoliosis Sometimes, scoliosis may occur in the lower (lumbar) spine.Thoracolumbar Scoliosis Some patients may suffer from scoliosis that involves the vertebrae in both the lower thoracic spine and the upper lumbar spine. This condition is referred to as thoracolumbar scoliosis. Causes If you discover a spinal curvature, it is important to speak with a licensed spine professional to determine the root cause. Many factors can be easily managed, but others can be dangerous and require timely medical attention. Common causes include: Congenital abnormality or possible genetic predispositionCerebral palsyMuscular dystrophyOsteoporosisAgingBone degenerationSudden injury, trauma or accidentInfectionTumor or growth By analyzing the spinal curve and performing non-invasive tests when necessary, spine specialists can typically determine the underlying cause and then build a treatment plan best suited for each unique case. Symptoms Because scoliosis can occur gradually and may not be accompanied by any immediate pain, it can be difficult to spot. However, addressing it promptly can increase your chance of obtaining effective treatment and retaining your quality of life. Look out for these symptoms: When viewed from the back, the spine appears curvedOne shoulder appears higher than the otherOne shoulder blade protrudes more than the otherOne hip appears higher or more prominent than the otherThe waist appears unevenDull or sharp back pain is experiencedDifficulty breathing (in extreme cases)One leg appears shorter than the otherThe body tilts to one side If you have trouble breathing, experience decreased mobility or extreme pain, seek emergency medical attention. Minimally Invasive Treatment Approach During your initial consultation with Minimally Invasive SpineCARE®, our highly-trained spine specialists will review your symptoms, family history and physical state to determine the severity of your condition. Based on this information, we will create a personalized treatment plan designed to fit your needs and goals. Unless you are suffering from progressive or severe scoliosis (typically determined by the degree to which your spine curves), we generally provide conservative treatments, such as: Radio frequency ablationBack bracingSpecialized exercise or physical therapySpinal rehabilitation programs Even if your scoliosis is minor and appears to be stationary, we will carefully observe your condition to ensure safety. If the curvature in the spine expands greater than 20 – 30 degrees and conservative treatments are ineffective, we may suggest the option of minimally invasive spine surgery. Generally, these surgeries use small amounts of bone graft or bone marrow aspirate to fuse the area of the curve and correct the spine. When considering minimally invasive surgery, patients should note the many benefits these advanced techniques offer. Unlike traditional surgery, minimally invasive surgery involves: Tiny incisionsReduced blood loss and scarringMinimal trauma to surrounding muscle and tissueQuicker recovery times, allowing patients to return to work, school and daily activities soonerFaster pain relief and eliminated discomfort As a division of the vertically-integrated Lumin Health system, Minimally Invasive SpineCARE® can offer timely referrals to a variety of specialists if it is determined that your condition does not require a spine expert. With orthopedic surgeons, pain management specialists, a state-of-the-art surgical center and more, Lumin Health drives new standards in patient-centric care by providing innovative services and expert treatment. For more information about our minimally invasive scoliosis surgery or the Board-certified spine surgeons at Minimally Invasive SpineCARE®, please call us directly at 972-255-5588 or fill out the form on this page. We look forward to speaking with you and discovering how we can help you today!

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