What is Scoliosis

Our spine in its normal shape should have a curve on the lower back and over the shoulder. These curves shall be inward and outward only. When your spine starts to curve sideways in either S or C pattern, you might have a condition called scoliosis.

What is scoliosis?

Scoliosis is the abnormal sideways curving of the spinal column. The cause of such curvature is unknown but some risk factors were identified by scoliosis specialists. 

Scoliosis can be detected at an early age. The curving of the spine may manifest in childhood and can be prevented by early detection. When went unnoticed or untreated, the curvature may worsen as the patient grow older.

Types of Scoliosis

There are many ways to classify the types of scoliosis. Some specialists categorized the types of scoliosis by being permanent or temporary.

Permanent scoliosis is called structural. This type has something to do with a birth defect, injuries and other factors that can make a lasting effect on the spine does making the curvature permanent.

In some cases though, scoliosis is temporary and can be treated through physical therapy. This type is known as nonstructural.

Idiopathic scoliosis, another category of the condition, is when the curvature has an unknown cause. Idiopathic scoliosis can manifest across any age. Thus, it was further categorized into brackets of ages when the curvature started. Based on the studies, idiopathic scoliosis is most common among adolescents.

How to treat Scoliosis?

Several scoliosis treatments were introduced over the years to prevent the further curving of the spine. However, most of them will not correct the curvature but can only minimize the problem. Some of which are:

• Wearing scoliosis correction braces
• Physical therapy such as massage and exercise
• Scoliosis Surgery

It is better to ask a scoliosis specialist before trying a treatment of your own. Especially when detected later in life, scoliosis may not be treated by wearing braces. In turn, it might even cause the curvature to worsen.

Scoliosis and Support Groups

 Talking to people with similar struggles can help you understand your condition better. A scoliosis support group is very helpful in coping with the condition.

Resource:
https://visual.ly/community/Infographics/health/what-scoliosis