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Scoliosis is a condition which is more common among
young children and adolescents. It happens because of an abnormal
curvature in the spine. This condition is regarded as genetic. It is
more frequent among children usually before puberty and more prone
among girls. If not treated in childhood, it can progress to adulthood
and cause lifelong bending of the spine. There are instances of 70
degrees and more of bending causing permanent damage to the spine.
Usually, scoliosis surgery is carried out when it has been found that
the spine is taking a curvature of more than 30 to 40 degrees.
Scoliosis cannot be traced easily as it does not cause pain in the
initial years and the curvature may be ignored. Common symptoms include
abnormal shape of the shoulders, hips, waist, or standing in an
inclined position. Treatment requires careful understanding of things
like the precise age at which the problem began, whether anyone in his
family had that problem, and the severity of the problem. Sometimes,
the problem may be further complicated due to permanent nerve damage
that has already occurred along the spinal column.
Scoliosis surgery is carried out when it is seen that
the curved spine is progressing and the degree of curvature is
increasing. Surgery is suggested with the intention of fusing the
spine, so that it doesn't bend more with adulthood. The curvature of
the spine doesn't stop until it’s commanded externally. Some other
preventive measures include orthopedic braces. But they have a
limitation and their use should be initiated at an early age. Scoliosis
is a problem that can be managed well if detected early, thus it is the
detection of scoliosis that needs to be stressed upon. Children showing
any signs of unwanted or unintentional curvature in the spine should be
sent to an orthopedic for checking the initiation of scoliosis.
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