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Orthopedics Orthopedics

What is scoliosis?

Scoliosis is a three-dimensional deformity of the spine with a lateral curvature more than 10 degrees and vertebral rotation.

The curvature can be either “C” shaped or “S” shaped and may cause uneven shoulders, hips, or ribcage, as well as back pain, muscle fatigue, and sometimes difficulty in breathing if severe. Early detection and management are crucial for minimizing potential complications and maintaining spinal health.

Idiopathic scoliosis usually occurs early in life (early onset scoliosis) or during adolescence (late onset scoliosis) and sometimes even in adulthood.
Congenital Scoliosis is due to vertebral abnormality present since birth while Neuromuscular Scoliosis is associated with neurological or muscular disorders early in life.

What are the causes of scoliosis and risk factors associated with scoliosis?

The cause of scoliosis varies depending on the type but may include:

  • Vertebrae malformation during embryonic development.
  • A genetic change.
  • A spine injury.
  • A tumor on your spine.
  • A condition that affects your nerves or muscles.

You’re more at risk of developing scoliosis if you have a biological family history of scoliosis or have an underlying condition or injury that affects your spine, muscles and nerves. The younger the age (due to skeletal immaturity) and the larger the cobb angle, the more you are at risk of curve progression.

What are the signs and symptoms of scoliosis?

Symptoms of scoliosis may include

With most scoliosis cases, the spine will rotate or twist in addition to curving side to side. This causes the ribs or muscles on one side of the body to stick out farther than those on the other side.

Scoliosis treatment at Healthpoint

At Healthpoint we offer various treatment options for scoliosis, ranging from observation to surgical interventions. However, the treatment of scoliosis is influenced by several factors, including age, the severity, location and progression of curvature, patient preferences and goals, multi-disciplinary input including orthopedic surgeons, spinal surgeons, physical therapists, and rehabilitation specialists, to ensure comprehensive and personalized care.

By considering these factors our specialists can develop tailored treatment plans that optimize outcomes and improve quality of life for individuals with scoliosis.

Our treatment plans for scoliosis include

  1. Observation: For mild cases of scoliosis, especially in children who are still growing, regular monitoring by a healthcare provider may be recommended. X-rays are typically taken at regular intervals to track the progression of the curvature and to determine if any treatment is necessary.
  2. Bracing: Bracing is often recommended for adolescents with moderate scoliosis (curvature between 20-40 degrees) to prevent further progression during growth spurts. The most common type of brace is the Boston brace, which is worn for a significant portion of the day, usually at least 18-20 hours.
  3. Physical Therapy (Schroth Method): The Schroth method is a specialized form of physical therapy aimed at improving posture, spinal alignment, and muscle balance. It involves specific exercises and stretches tailored to the individual's unique curvature to help strengthen muscles and correct asymmetries in the spine.
  4. Surgical Options:

Apart from the above, our scoliosis specialists and surgeons also develop treatment options for:

 

Patient Stories

  • Laila's Story on Recovering From Scoliosis

    After 6 years of debilitating back pain, Laila regained her life with the help of Healthpoint’s renowned spine specialists. Under the expert guidance of Dr. Martin and his team, Laila found relief from Scoliosis and can now thrive to her full potential

    Our Spine Doctors

    • Dr Martin Min
      Dr. Martin Falken Wetterhall
      MBBS, M.D.

      Consultant Orthopedic Surgeon - Spine

      Dr. Martin Falken Wetterhall
      MBBS, M.D.

      Consultant Orthopedic Surgeon - Spine


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    • Dr Sandesh
      Dr. Sandesh Lakkol
      MBBS, MRCS, MSc ( Tr & Orth ), FRCS (Tr& Orth)

      Consultant Orthopedic Surgeon - Spine

      Dr. Sandesh Lakkol
      MBBS, MRCS, MSc ( Tr & Orth ), FRCS (Tr& Orth)

      Consultant Orthopedic Surgeon - Spine


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    • Dr. Waleed Hekal
      Dr. Waleed Hekal
      MBBCh, MSc (Orth), MD (Orth), FRCS (Eng), FRCS (Glasg), FRCSI, FRCS [Tr&Orth]

      Consultant Orthopedic Surgeon - Spine

      Dr. Waleed Hekal
      MBBCh, MSc (Orth), MD (Orth), FRCS (Eng), FRCS (Glasg), FRCSI, FRCS [Tr&Orth]

      Consultant Orthopedic Surgeon - Spine


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