Etymologically it means "crooked or deviated." Scoliosis is a lateral deviation of the spine characterized by a curvature (to the right or left) in its path.
This condition can develop in any of the spine's segments (lumbar, dorsal or cervical), and presents a high incidence at a global level, which is reflected between 1 and 3% of the population.
With idiopathic causes (unknown), scoliosis is attributed to congenital origin in most cases.
Although the exact cause is not always known, it is known that genetic factors and development play an important role in its appearance.
During childhood and development, scoliosis may have a variable course, even asymptomatic. The degree of curvature deviation is proportional to the degree of deformity and complications that may affect the patient's quality of life.
When scoliosis initially affects the patient's quality of life, the following occur:
Then, if the deformity of the curvature is accentuated, the following may occur:
In severe cases, scoliosis generates deformity of the thoracic cage, compromising even the pulmonary ventilator function. This can affect respiratory capacity and require specialized medical intervention.
The patient's medical history, together with a thorough physical examination, completes the basis of the diagnosis, along with imaging studies.
Early detection of scoliosis allows for a conservative medical approach, avoiding major complications and improving the patient's prognosis.
Physical therapy and rehabilitation are indispensable, since the key is muscle strengthening and spinal hygiene as prevention.
In some cases, it is necessary to prescribe anti-inflammatory medication, analgesics or relaxants, in addition to reinforcing the stability of the spine with the use of a special corset.
In extreme cases, where the deformity has a significant impact on the patient's quality of life, or even when vital organs at the thoracic level are compromised, the surgical route would be the only alternative.
Most of the cases are not extreme. We recommend that you learn about our non-surgical treatment and to listen to the real possibilities of your case from any of our specialists.
Scoliosis is a condition that affects between 1 and 3% of the world population. Although it can be asymptomatic in its initial stages, it is fundamental to perform an early diagnosis to implement an effective conservative treatment.
Muscle strengthening, physical therapy, and rehabilitation are fundamental pillars in the management of this condition. At Centro de la Columna Vertebral, we offer non-surgical treatments that can help improve the quality of life of patients with scoliosis, avoiding in many cases the need for surgical intervention.
Scoliosis is a lateral deviation of the spine, characterized by a curvature to the right or left. Etymologically it means "crooked or deviated" and can develop in any segment of the spine (lumbar, dorsal or cervical).
In most cases, scoliosis is of idiopathic cause (unknown) and is attributed to congenital origin. Although the exact cause is not always identified, genetic factors and development play an important role.
Symptoms can vary from being asymptomatic to presenting muscle fatigue, chronic back or lumbar pain. In advanced cases there may be muscle atrophy, alteration of posture and gait. In severe cases it can affect respiratory function.
Yes, most cases can be treated conservatively with physical therapy, rehabilitation, muscle strengthening and, in some cases, use of a special corset. Early detection allows for an effective conservative medical approach.
Surgery is reserved for extreme cases where the deformity has a significant impact on the patient's quality of life or there is compromise of vital organs at the thoracic level. Most cases do not require surgical intervention.