Curvature of the Spine

Curvature of the spine usually refers to the condition called scoliosis. The root of the word scoliosis, is the Greek word which means crooked. While most people have straight spines (back), a small number have a sideways curve in their spine. The curve may be towards the left or the right and the case may be mild or severe. This sideways bend can occur at any point along the spine, though the chest area (thoracic scoliosis) and the lower part of the back (lumbar scoliosis) are the most common regions to be affected. In a few cases, the curve has an S shape, a double curve so to speak. Curvature of the spine in children can develop during childhood and adolescence and is more common in girls than boys.

Causes
More than 8 in 10 cases of scoliosis are idiopathic which means that the cause is unknown. Neuromuscular scoliosis is caused by a condition which affects muscles or nerves of the back. For example, it may occur in some cases of muscular dystrophy, polio, cerebral palsy, or neurofibromatosis. When scoliosis is due to a bone abnormality, it is referred to as Osteopathic. Curvature of the spine in infants is usually congenital, where the spine has failed to form normally in the womb. Non-structural scoliosis (functional or postural scoliosis) is where the spine looks crooked not because it is but because of another condition such as differing leg length or muscle spasm in the back muscles.

Symptoms
Curves usually set in gradually, without any pain. This curvature is most noticeable when the person bends down. However, if the problem is mild, it can often go unnoticed. One of the indications of scoliosis is uneven shoulders, which means that one shoulder blade appears more prominent than the other. Another indication is an uneven waist, where one hip is higher than the other. If or when scoliosis becomes more severe, the spine can also rotate or twist, in addition to curving side to side. This can result in the ribs on one side of the body sticking out. Alternately, it can make the pelvis thrust forward on one side causing one leg to appear shorter. Severe scoliosis, if untreated can cause persistent back pain and difficulty in breathing.

Treatment
Depending on the case, treatment may be in the form of observation, wearing a brace or surgery. Cases where scoliosis is mild usually call for observation at regular intervals to ensure that the condition does not worsen. In children, when main bone growth ends after puberty, the condition is very unlikely to become worse. In these cases, the person can go on to lead a normal life, possibly only avoiding certain activities such as heavy contact sports or gymnastics.

Another form of treatment is a back brace, which prevents the condition from getting worse as the child grows. There are many different kinds now available, the newer once proving much more comfort than the older ones. In moderate or worsening cases, a back brace may be advised. It usually has to be worn most of the day and night. Curvature of the spine surgery may be performed for those with severe scoliosis. Surgery is done to correct the curve, stabilize the spine and also fuse the curve. Often implants or rods are used to keep the back straight after the operation. The post operative recovery usually takes many months.

Cases of scoliosis in adults are an outcome of the condition being overlooked in adolescence. The prognosis for curvature of the spine is good, for with timely treatment, most kids can grow up to live healthy active lives.