Scoliosis, << `skoh` lee OH sihs, >> is a side-to-side curve of the spine. In most cases, this condition becomes apparent during adolescence or even earlier. It affects more girls than boys, but physicians do not know why. Advanced cases can result in severe deformity that may interfere with the heart, lungs, and nervous system. Such deformity can also lead to psychological problems. Doctors do not know what causes most cases, though some result from muscular diseases or birth defects.
Many people have some form of scoliosis, but only a small percentage need medical treatment. Mild cases are simply examined regularly to make sure they do not become worse. Physicians generally prescribe a back brace and special exercises to stabilize a moderate spinal curve in young people who are still growing.
During the early 1980’s, many doctors began experimenting with electrical stimulation instead of braces to stabilize moderate curves. In this procedure, a small electrical transmitter is attached nightly to electrodes taped on the surface of the patient’s back or surgically implanted under the skin. The transmitter stimulates the deep back muscles and causes them to contract, pulling the spine into line.
Severe scoliosis may require surgery to straighten and fuse (join) the vertebrae in the area of the curve. In many cases, a steel rod is permanently attached to the spine. A body cast is worn for seven to nine months, after which most normal activities can be resumed.
In most cases, early detection and treatment eliminate the need for surgery. Many schools test all students between 10 and 15 years old for scoliosis symptoms, which include unlevel hips or shoulders, a prominent shoulder blade, or a hump on the back.
