Scoliosis can occur in adults, children, and teenagers
Scoliosis is most commonly recognized when children and adolescents are in their peak growing years. This is known as Adolescent Idiopathic scoliosis.
It’s recommended that all girls aged 10-12 years old and all boys 12-14 years old be screened for scoliosis. Early detection of scoliosis is key to minimizing progression and ultimately avoiding surgery.
Adult-onset Degenerative Scoliosis can also occur. This can be due to Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis that has degenerated or, more commonly, it can be caused by the effects of gravity wearing on a spine unevenly.
What is scoliosis?
Scoliosis is a lateral curvature of the spine 10-degrees or greater with rotation of the vertebraes. Normally the spine appears curved when viewed from the side, but it should appear straight when viewed from the back.
There are many types of scoliosis, but the most common type in children is called adolescent idiopathic scoliosis. This type makes up approximately 80% of cases.
As we age, the prevalence of scoliosis is estimated to increase to over 30% of the population over 60 years. And increases with age. This is called adult-onset degenerative scoliosis or De Novo Scoliosis.
What is hyperkyphosis?
Hyperkyphosis is the excessive curvature of the middle back or thoracic spine in the front to back plane. This means the spine appears straight when viewed from the back, but it appears excessively hunched over when viewed from the side.
In addition to scoliosis treatment, we also offer treatment plans for hyperkyphosis.
Why does Adolescent Idiopathic scoliosis occur?
Adolescent Idiopathic scoliosis is the most common type of scoliosis. It typically affects youth aged 10-18.
It is not entirely clear why this scoliosis occurs, but the research suggests there is a genetic component affecting 2-3% of the population before they stop growing. Most cases of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis do not reach surgical levels, and most do not cause life-threatening conditions.
However, it is very common for people with smaller curves to experience quality of life issues like pain, and posture distortions. There can also be early degenerative changes as adults. Identifying scoliosis early, through screening in peak growing years, or in younger adult years, can help prevent these problems from occurring later on.
Treatment is available
A team-based approach improves the likelihood of success
more about scoliosis treatment?
SOSORT (Society on Scoliosis Orthopedic and Rehabilitation Treatment):
The international society that mainly provides research and guidelines for the conservative, non-surgical, management of scoliosis
The Scoliosis Research Society
Provides research and guidelines on surgical treatment of scoliosis
ScoliCare
As international leaders in scoliosis care, they have many educational resources on scoliosis research and conditions.
