Scoliosis in the Child
Scoliosis is the lateral deviation (sideways curving) of the spine and commonly affects children and adolescents. 4% of children aged 10-14 have detectable scoliosis. 60-80% of those affected are girls. While most cases of childhood and adolescent scoliosis stop progressing once spinal maturity is reached, progression of the curve past spinal maturity is not uncommon.
Since the abnormal curvature may not be obvious upon inspection of the back, even to the trained eye, an uneven shoulder height or clothes not appearing to hang off the body symmetrically may be the first indication. Also, a complaint of back pain, ache, discomfort or fatigue may be present.
However, this does not generally occur until later stages after the spinal ligaments and muscles have been chronically irritated. If the lateral curvature continues to progress, cardiovascular compromise can result – ultimately leading to severe disability or death.
Types of Scoliosis
Infantile – Infantile scoliosis is a lateral spine deviation occurring during the first 3 years of life and is twice as common in males. Approximately 74-97% resolve on their own but those that do progress do so in a severe and disabling manner. This condition is, however, rare in North America.
Juvenile – Juvenile scoliosis refers to scoliosis occurring in children aged 3 until the age of puberty – approximately 10 years of age. Juvenile scoliosis can continue to progress in severity. If progression occurs without appropriate treatment severe spinal deformity and cardiovascular compromise can result.
Adolescent – Adolescent scoliosis is scoliosis detected in those who have reached puberty but have yet to reach adulthood. This is the most common type of idiopathic scoliosis (unknown cause). Progression and future health problems can occur.
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