Scoliosis is an important issue that should be taken seriously as it can lead to health problems. The earlier scoliosis is diagnosed, the easier it is to prevent its progression. To diagnose scoliosis in children, it is necessary to check the child's posture, asymmetry of the shoulders and hips, protrusions on the back, and whether they have balance problems. If any differences are observed in these areas, it is necessary to consult an orthopedic specialist.
What is Spinal Curvature?
Spinal curvature can be observed in children. Spinal curvature is a condition in which the spine curves in an S or C shape. Spinal curvature, also known as scoliosis, is divided into three types: idiopathic, congenital, and neuromuscular. The most common type of scoliosis is adolescent idiopathic scoliosis. Although the cause of this type of scoliosis is unknown, it can generally be detected during adolescence. Idiopathic scoliosis does not occur due to genetic causes. It can develop while the child is still in the womb or after birth. Since it does not show any symptoms during childhood, scoliosis may not be diagnosed. Scoliosis can be detected during adolescence as it progresses.
What causes spinal curvature in children?
Spinal curvature in children can begin when they start school, or if they already have spinal curvature, it may increase. Children may develop spinal curvature because they sit unbalanced and bend their heads while writing and reading at school. In addition, due to the increased use of phones and tablets in recent years, spinal curvature has begun to occur at an earlier age in children. Spinal curvature in children can occur due to environmental factors as well as structural factors. Spinal curvature may occur while the child is developing in the womb, or it may appear after birth due to genetic predisposition or muscle weakness.
Symptoms of Spinal Curvature
If the spinal curvature is severe, it may be visible to the naked eye. However, mild spinal curvature may not be noticeable to the naked eye. Spinal curvature can be detected by ultrasound. The symptoms of spinal curvature in children can be listed as follows:
- Asymmetry of the shoulders,
- Curvature of the back,
- Curvature of the hips,
- Inability to maintain body balance,
- Differences in leg length,
- Pain in the back and waist
Treatment of Spinal Curvature
Treatment for spinal curvature in children varies depending on the degree of curvature. If the curvature is less than 50 degrees, surgery is generally not required, and treatment aims to correct the curvature through exercises. If the curvature is greater than 50 degrees, surgery may be necessary in addition to scoliosis exercises. Even in cases of scoliosis below 15 degrees in children, follow-up is important. During this follow-up process, it is important to perform scoliosis exercises along with rehabilitation programs. In addition, a scoliosis brace can also be used in the treatment of spinal curvature. The scoliosis brace prevents the curvature from progressing further. However, the scoliosis brace cannot reverse scoliosis. In cases where scoliosis causes pain, painkillers can be used to temporarily reduce symptoms. If scoliosis progresses despite performing scoliosis exercises and using a brace, surgical methods may be considered. However, surgical procedures are a method used in cases where the degree of scoliosis is very high.
Spinal Curvature Exercises
Scoliosis exercises can slow down and stop the progression of scoliosis. In mild cases, exercises can help maintain spinal health. Scoliosis exercises improve spinal flexibility and increase muscle strength. Scoliosis exercises can be performed as follows:
- Cat-camel exercise: Lie face down. Support yourself on your hands and knees and assume the cat position. Inhale and arch your back upward. As you exhale, lower your back and waist until they are below shoulder level. This movement can be repeated several times.
- Child's pose: Sit on your knees and stretch your arms forward, leaning toward the ground. Stretch and relax your back and shoulders. Hold this position for 20-30 seconds before completing the movement.