Scoliosis Facts:
Scoliosis, a condition when there are abnormal curvature(s) in the spinal column, is the most common deformity of the spine in the world.
Fast Facts:
- Scoliosis affects 2-3% of the population and in the US alone, it affects 7 million individuals, or 1 in every 40 people.
- Every year 30,000 children at fitted for braces
- Every year 38,000 undergo highly invasive spinal fusion surgery
- Girls are 8x more likely to have a curve that progresses and needs interventions.
- There are various categories of scoliosis with regards to intervention, based on the extent of the curvature. To be classified as a true scoliosis curvature, the spine must be side-bent at least 10 degrees.
- In 85% of cases, the diagnosis is made to be “Idiopathic Adolescent Scoliosis.” The term idiopathic implies there is no known case. There is a genetic predisposition and there are environmental factors that influence its manifestation.
- Scoliosis can affect individuals at any age, but the most common age of onset is 10-15 years old.
- In the State of Missouri, school screenings are not conducted until 6th-8thgrade.
Common Signs:
- Uneven shoulders, ribs, hips or waist
- Back pain
- One shoulder blade sticking out
- Rib hump present
- Discoloration or changes in texture in the skin that covers the spine
Early detection makes a significant difference when correcting curve with conservative means. If you are concerned your child may be developing a curve, please don't hesitate to schedule an evaluation with our doctors.
Sources:
- National Scoliosis Foundation, June 2007.
- American Association of Neurological Surgeons