Spinal curvature is an issue that should be taken seriously because it may lead to health problems. The earlier spinal curvature is diagnosed, the more easily its progression can be prevented. In order to diagnose scoliosis curvature in children, the child's posture, asymmetry of the shoulders and hips, the presence of a protrusion on the back, and whether there is a problem with balance should be checked. If any difference is observed in these areas, it is necessary to consult an orthopedic specialist.
What Is Spinal Curvature?
Spinal curvature in children may be seen. Spinal curvature is the condition in which the spine shows an S-shaped or C-shaped curve. 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 scoliosis is unknown, it can generally be recognized during adolescence. Idiopathic scoliosis does not occur due to genetic causes. It may develop in the womb or appear after birth. Since it may not show symptoms during childhood, scoliosis may not be diagnosed. It may become apparent when scoliosis progresses during adolescence.
What Causes Spinal Curvature in Children?
Spinal curvature in children may begin from the time they start school, or an existing spinal curvature may increase. Since children may sit unevenly and bend their heads while writing or reading at school, curvature of the spine may develop. In addition, because the use of phones and tablets has increased among children in recent years, curvature of the spine has started to appear at earlier ages. Spinal curvature in children may occur due to environmental factors as well as structural causes. Spinal curvature may develop while the child is growing in the womb, or it may appear after birth due to genetic predisposition or muscle weakness.
Symptoms of Spinal Curvature
If spinal curvature is severe, it may be possible to notice it with the naked eye. However, it may not be possible to notice low-degree spinal curvature with the naked eye. Spinal curvature can be detected by ultrasonography. The symptoms of spinal curvature in children may be listed as follows:
- Asymmetry of the shoulders,
- Curvature seen in the back,
- Curvature in the hip,
- Inability to maintain body balance,
- Difference in leg lengths,
- Pain in the back and lower back
Treatment of Spinal Curvature
Treatment of spinal curvature in children varies depending on the degree of spinal curvature. If the spinal curvature is below 50 degrees, surgery is generally not required, and treatment of the curvature is aimed through exercises. In cases where it is above 50 degrees, surgery may be required in addition to scoliosis exercises. Even in cases of scoliosis below 15 degrees in children, follow-up is important. During this follow-up period, it is important to perform scoliosis exercises together with rehabilitation programs. In addition, a scoliosis brace may also be used in the treatment of spinal curvature. Thanks to the scoliosis brace, further progression of the curvature may be prevented. However, a scoliosis brace cannot make scoliosis regress. In cases where scoliosis causes pain, temporary reduction of symptoms may be provided with painkillers. If scoliosis progresses despite scoliosis exercises and brace use, surgical methods may be considered. However, surgical procedures are methods used in cases where the degree of scoliosis is very high.
Exercises for Spinal Curvature
Thanks to scoliosis exercises, the progression of scoliosis may be slowed down and stopped. In patients with mild scoliosis, spinal health may be protected through exercises. Scoliosis exercises help provide spinal flexibility and increase muscle strength. Scoliosis exercises may be done as follows:
Cat-camel exercise; in this exercise, you lie face down. The cat position is taken by supporting the body with the hands and knees. A breath is taken, and the back is arched upward. While exhaling, the body is lowered downward until the waist and back are brought below shoulder level. This movement may be repeated several times.
Child's pose; sit on the knees and bend toward the floor with the arms extended forward. The back and shoulders are stretched and relaxed. After remaining in this position for 20-30 seconds, the movement is completed.