What is the Main Cause of Scoliosis?

Key Causes of Scoliosis You Should Know

Our spines are naturally forward and backwards-curved to support our posture. However, for people with scoliosis, their spines are in a side-by-side curve, often forming the letter S or C. It can cause uneven posture and other health problems. A 10-degree curve or greater is usually diagnosed as scoliosis.

Main Causes of Scoliosis

Researchers still cannot pinpoint the exact cause of scoliosis. However, several factors, such as tumours, genetics, and changes in cell structure, can cause it. Doctors term it as idiopathic (unknown) scoliosis. Below is a detailed breakdown of the plausible causes:

• Congenital Causes : It refers to spine development when the baby is still in the womb. During embryonic development, it is possible that the baby suffered from vertebral malformation, leading to scoliosis.
• Genetic Mutation : DNA is a huge part of how we function. Genetic changes in a person can lead to a curved spine. These changes happen when cells divide and copy themselves to multiply.
• Spine Injury : Trauma to the spinal cord may lead to the development of scoliosis. It can cause damage to the muscles surrounding the spinal cord, leading to paralysis or muscle weakness.
• Neuromuscular Diseases : Disorders such as cerebral palsy (CP) can cause a sideways curvature of the spine. It affects the brain and the ability to send messages to the muscles. Thus, muscles become weak and lose their function.
• Tumour Formation : A tumour (neoplasm) is a group of abnormal cells that can cause structural damage to your spine. It can be cancerous or benign. Benign tumours are not harmful and may not require surgery. However, a cancerous tumour needs surgery and other treatments.

What are the Symptoms of Scoliosis?

Let us discuss the signs and symptoms of scoliosis below:

• Uneven Shoulders: People with scoliosis may have uneven shoulder length from the curve. One of the shoulders may appear shorter compared to the other.
• Uncentered Head: Usually, human bodies are perfectly symmetrical, with our heads centred above the pelvis. However, people with scoliosis may have a head uncentred to the pelvis.
• Ribs Misalignment: You may notice your rib cage sticking out on one side.
• Off-centred Gait: People with scoliosis will notice that their waist shifts to one side, leading to an uneven gait.

Other than these, you may also experience painful symptoms, including:

• Back stiffness
• Fatigue
• Breathing problems due to the thoracic curve
• Numbness in your legs
• Low back pain
• Height loss

Can You Live a Normal Life with Scoliosis?

Most cases of scoliosis are mild; that is, they do not require treatment. You can lead a normal life with the disorder. However, this depends on the severity of the scoliosis. Usually, a curve of 10-24 degrees is considered mild scoliosis. However, a 25 to 39-degree spine curve registers as moderate scoliosis. Doctors consider a 40-degree or more spine curve as severe scoliosis.

Let us discuss some of the treatment options for scoliosis below:

1. Scoliosis Surgery

Doctors suggest surgery if your spine is curved more than 40 degrees. There are three approaches to surgery:

1. Expandable Rod: Doctors use a rod and attach it to your ribs and spine. They adjust it every 3 to 6 months. They usually recommend an expandable rod for growing children. When their growth is over, doctors perform a spinal fusion.
2. Spinal Fusion: In this surgery, the surgeon puts bones or other materials between your spine. The goal is to make these objects fuse with the spine and prevent the scoliosis from worsening. These materials stay in the body permanently.
3. Vertebral Body Tethering: This treatment is aimed at children with scoliosis. In this, the surgeon places screws on the curved side. After that, they thread a strong cord through the screws so that the spine grows straight. The screws and threads stay permanently in the body.

Surgery is the last resort. Before surgery, doctors usually use a scoliosis brace. Let us learn about it below.

2. Scoliosis Brace

A scoliosis brace, often made of plastic, is given to growing children. It covers the child’s front and back and is not visible under loose clothes. Children need to wear it for at least 16 hours. 80% of the time, these braces can help stop the curve from getting worse. 

Untreated scoliosis can lead to low self-esteem, breathing problems and chronic back pain. Although you can live a quality life with scoliosis, certain activities might be hard. Playing sports such as football or swimming may not be the best choice. If you notice any symptoms, contact your doctor and start getting treatment.