Scoliosis Essay, Research Paper

Scoliosis

Everyone’s spine has curves. These curves produce the normal rounding of

the shoulder and the sway of the lower back. A spine with scoliosis has abnormal

curves with a rotational deformity. This means that the spine turns on its axis

like a corkscrew.

Scoliosis is a curvature of the spine which may have its onset in

infancy but is most frequently discovered in adolescence. It is more common in

females by a 2:1 ratio. However, when curves in excess of 30 degrees are

evaluated, females are more frequently affected by a ration of approximately10:1.

The cause of the most common form of scoliosis; idiopathic scoliosis. is

unknown, but there have been hereditary factors discovered that are present.

Scoliosis causes shoulder, trunk and waistline ?asymmetry?. In mild

forms, the condition may be barely noticed; however, in severe forms there is

significant disfigurement, back pain and postural fatigue, and it may be

associated with heart failure. Fortunately the majority of scoliosis cases need

only close follow-up to watch for worsening of the curve. Some cases require

more aggressive treatment which could include surgery.

The non-operative treatment of scoliosis involves observing the

deformity with examinations and repeated x-rays. Under certain circumstances,

when spinal growth remains, a brace may be used in combination with follow-up x-

rays. Physical therapy exercises have not been shown to be effective treatment

for scoliosis.

The most common surgical treatment for scoliosis is a spine fusion using

special stainless steel rods, hooks, and a bone graft. The rods are attached to

the spine with hooks and the curved portion of the spine is carefully

straightened. Then, small strips of bone graft are placed over the spine to fuse

it in a straight position. As the bone graft heals over the next several months,

the spine becomes solid and will not curve again. But the part of the spine that

has not been fused will still be flexible, and allow nearly normal overall

movement.