The spine might be exposed to many conditions that affect its form and work, such as scoliosis, which is a condition that affects about 2% of people around the world.

Scoliosis

Scoliosis is an abnormal side curve in the spine. The spine normally has a slight forward and backward curve, but in scoliosis, this curve is on one side; therefore, the spine takes the shape of C or S.

Scoliosis occurs in both sexes, but it worsens in females more than males.

Causes of scoliosis

The cause of scoliosis differs depending on the type. There are three types of scoliosis:

• Idiopathic scoliosis, which is the most common. The experts think that hereditary has a role in it.
• Congenital scoliosis, which is a rare abnormality in the spine that can be noticed at birth, and it occurs because the vertebrae don’t form correctly during the embryonic phase.
• Neuromuscular scoliosis, which is an abnormality in the nerves and muscles that support the spine. This type occurs alongside other muscular or neurological conditions, such as cerebral palsy, muscular dystrophy, or spina bifida.

Scoliosis might also occur due to damage or a tumor in the spine.

Symptoms of scoliosis

Most of the scoliosis cases are mild and without symptoms and don’t need treatment. Symptoms and signs include the following:

• Uneven shoulders and waist.
• A prominence on one shoulder blade than the other
• One hip is higher than the other.
• A prominence on one side of the back when bending forward.
• A forward prominence on one side of the rib cage.
• Constant leaning to one side.
• Uneven leg length.
• Change in the appearance and texture of the back skin.
• Back pain.
• Weakness in the core muscles.
• Difficulty standing upright.
• Pain, numbness, or weakness in the leg.

Complications of scoliosis

Severe cases of scoliosis, if not treated, might cause the following complications:

• Physical deformity.
• Organ and nerve damage.
• Long-lasting pain.
• Breathing problems.
• Spinal fluid leakage.
• Arthritis.

Diagnosis of scoliosis

• Physical examination.
• Imaging tests.

Treatment of scoliosis

The treatment depends on the degree of the scoliosis and the symptoms, and it includes:

• Conservative treatment: painkillers, a back brace, specific exercises, and physical therapy in some cases.
• Scoliosis surgery.