Scoliosis often remains unnoticed, particularly in children and teenagers during colder months, where it may be mistaken for “poor posture.” Likewise, adults may dismiss it as normal back pain, aging, or wear and tear. However, recognizing scoliosis early on is crucial in order to stay ahead of the curve and facilitate effective intervention. The longer scoliosis remains undetected or ignored, the more challenging and complex the treatment becomes.

Understanding Scoliosis

Before delving into the benefits of early detection, let’s take a closer look at scoliosis. It is a condition characterized by a curved and rotated spine, ranging from mild to severe, affecting individuals of all ages, from infants to adults. Some may exhibit barely noticeable curves, while others experience more severe curves that cause structural changes in the spine and trunk, along with associated health issues. Visual cues like visible curvature, uneven shoulders or hips, prominent shoulder blades, or forward slouching, particularly in growing children and adolescents, serve as warning signs. Additionally, a family history of scoliosis warrants thorough examination.

The Significance of Early Detection

Early detection allows for timely intervention and treatment options. Catching scoliosis at an early stage opens up more possibilities, including non-surgical conservative approaches. Minor curves can potentially be managed through specific exercise rehabilitation programs tailored for scoliosis. One such approach, ScoliBalance®, is a non-invasive and evidence-based treatment option (1-5). If curves do not respond adequately to exercise programs or are discovered at a significant stage, scoliosis bracing or, in rare cases, surgery may be necessary. The primary goal of scoliosis bracing is typically to halt further progression and, when feasible for children and teens, achieve straighter spinal alignment. In most cases, a well-designed, custom 3D scoliosis brace like ScoliBrace® can help children avoid the need for surgery.

Numerous published studies support the effectiveness of scoliosis bracing, particularly for growing children. A multi-center study published in the New England Journal of Medicine in 2013 revealed that most adolescents treated with scoliosis bracing did not require surgery (6).

Patient-Centric Approach Enabled by Modern Technology

Advancements in technology, such as 3D body scanning and custom 3D brace design, offer a more personalized approach to scoliosis treatment. By creating custom-designed braces based on individual measurements and goals, it is possible to enhance brace effectiveness and comfort for patients. Even young children, including infants, can benefit from scoliosis bracing, often achieving rapid results. For adults, scoliosis bracing serves as a long-term option, providing support to prevent progression, reduce pain, improve posture, and enhance overall quality of life.

The Consequences of Untreated Scoliosis

Without treatment, scoliosis cases are prone to worsening. Research indicates that untreated scoliosis curves measuring over 30 degrees in teenagers have a high likelihood of progression (7). Untreated scoliosis can lead to uneven posture, a hunched back, loss of height, pain, and, in severe cases, heart and lung complications. By the time scoliosis reaches such advanced stages, treatment becomes significantly more challenging.

Emphasizing Early Detection and Action

Early detection and prompt action yield the best outcomes. This Scoliosis Awareness Month, let’s encourage regular checks for signs of scoliosis among friends and family members, aiming to ensure early detection and get ahead of the curve.

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References

Monticone M, Ambrosini E, Cazzaniga D, Rocca B, Ferrante S. Active self-correction and task-oriented exercises reduce spinal deformity and improve quality of life in subjects with mild adolescent idiopathic scoliosis. Results of a randomised controlled trial. Eur Spine J. 2014 Jun;23(6):1204-14.
Negrini A, NegriniM.G, Donzelli S, Romano M, Zaina F, Negrini S. Scoliosis-specific exercises can reduce the progression of severe curves in adult idiopathic scoliosis: a long-term cohort study. Scoliosis. 2015; 10: 20.
Zhou Z, Liu F, Li R, Chen X. The effects of exercise therapy on adolescent idiopathic scoliosis: An overview of systematic review and meta-analyses. Complement Ther Med. 2021 May;58:102697
Weinstein S. The natural history of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis, J Pediatr Orthop. 2019 Jul;39(Issue 6, Supplement 1 Suppl 1):S44-S46.
Negrini S, Grivas T.B, Kotwicki T, Maruyama T, Rigo M, Weiss H.R. Why do we treat adolescent idiopathic scoliosis? What we want to obtain and avoid for our patients. SOSORT 2005 Consensus paper, Scoliosis. 2006 Apr 10;1:4. doi: 10.1186/1748-7161-1-4.
Weinstein S, Dolan L, Wright J, Dobbs M. Effects of Bracing in Adolescents with Idiopathic Scoliosis. N Engl J Med. 2013 Oct 17;369(16):1512-21.
Asher A, Burton D. Adolescent idiopathic scoliosis: natural history and long term treatment effects, Scoliosis. 2006 Mar 31;1(1):2. doi: 10.1186/1748-7161-1-2.