Who are at Risk for Scoliosis?

With close to 7 million people living with #scoliosis in the United States alone, the condition is far more prevalent than many realize, which is why #awareness is very important.
National Scoliosis Awareness Month takes place annually in #June and strives to spread awareness about the condition itself, its prevalence, the merits of early detection, and the benefits of proactive treatment.
 
What is scoliosis?
Scoliosis is an abnormal lateral curvature of the spine. It is most often diagnosed in childhood or early adolescence. If your spine is curved from side to side or in an “S” or “C” shape, chances are you might have scoliosis and get it checked soon rather than later by a spine specialist.
 
Who are at risk?
Anyone can get scoliosis. However, idiopathic scoliosis, which is the most common type, usually occurs in children aged 11 and older. Girls are more likely than boys to have this type of scoliosis. People are more likely to have scoliosis if their parent, brother, or sister has it.
  • People or children, who spend a lot of time in front of a computer or TV screen, where they may be slouched over.
  • If you have a family history of scoliosis, then there are more chances for you to develop that.
  • Children whose growth plates have not yet closed.
  • Girls who begin puberty at a young age and, as a result, grow rapidly.
  • Improper walking posture, and sitting posture.
  • Malnutrition increases the chances of scoliosis.
  • One who suffered an injury to the spine, usually from trauma to the spine or back.
  • If there is a tumor that can cause physical changes to the spine.
Neuromuscular conditions like cerebral palsy, and muscular in the United States alone, the condition is far more prevalent than many realize, which is why awareness is very important.
 
Takeaway
Even though scoliosis can’t be prevented or cured, our healthcare system has widened its approach to treating scoliosis, to include a conservative path proven to yield impressive results and give patients a favorable alternative to invasive surgery.
 
So, if you think you are at a risk for developing scoliosis, then schedule an appointment with your physician or with our spine specialist and get checked so that you can prevent severe damage to the spine.
 
Carolina Regional Orthopaedics provides the most effective, modern, and innovative techniques in both Orthopedic Surgery and Pain Management using proven methodologies in both the surgical and non-surgical treatment of all conditions affecting the spine, upper extremities, and lower extremities. We specialize in hand and wrist surgery, joint replacements, sports medicine, trauma care, pediatric orthopedics, pain management, wound care, regenerative medicine, physical therapy, imaging services, and EMG testing.