Scoliosis

POSTED: 11 May, 2021

1. What is scoliosis?

Scoliosis is an abnormal lateral or sideways curvature of the spine. It is most often diagnosed in childhood or early adolescence (age 10 – 12 years for girls, or 12 – 14 for boys) when growth is most rapid. It can be a C or an S-shaped curvature depending on which level of the spine is involved.

2. What causes scoliosis?

The cause is unknown, but 80-90% of cases occur in otherwise health adolescents. This is called adolescent idiopathic (cause unknown) scoliosis (AIS). 90% of the patients are females but this can occur frequently in males.

3. Why is early screening and detection essential?

While very small curves are common and have no significance, about 2% of girls have a curve, which warrants medical observation during the growth period.  If treatment is required, the earlier it is undertaken, the better the long term results.

4. How to self detect?

Apart from the outward signs with a teenager standing as illustrated above, the reliable forward bend test is used in the diagnosis.

5. Can IntegratePHYSIO help?

Our Physiotherapists are well trained and equipped to do a comprehensive and detailed individualised assessment:

Some of our treatment options may include but may not be limited to:

• Spinal bracing and pain management
• Breathing and chest expansion
• Specific Stretching exercises 
• Pilates
• Pilates using equipment like the reformer
• Footwear

6. Is treatment successful?

Yes, most patients respond well to a tailor-made strengthening and stretching program specific to their situation. Modern treatment methods including physiotherapy are highly successful and produce excellent results specially when curve is detected early. Surgery is rarely needed.