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Scoliosis

Three-dimensional spinal deformity with lateral curvature exceeding 10 degrees.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Published:

This content is for general information; please consult your physician for diagnosis and treatment.

References (5)

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What is Scoliosis?

Scoliosis is a structural spinal deformity with coronal-plane lateral curvature, axial rotation, and sagittal plane changes, measured by Cobb angle of at least 10 degrees.

Adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) is the most common type, typically presenting between 10–18 years with a predilection for girls.

Other types include congenital (vertebral anomalies), neuromuscular (cerebral palsy, muscular dystrophy), and adult degenerative scoliosis from asymmetric disc/facet degeneration.

Diagnosis uses clinical examination (Adam's forward bend test, scoliometer) and standing full-length spinal radiographs; MRI is reserved for atypical presentations or neurologic signs.

Symptoms

Asymmetric shoulder or scapular heights
Rib prominence or paraspinal hump on forward bending
Waistline asymmetry and pelvic tilt
Back pain (more common in adult degenerative scoliosis)
Shortness of breath in severe thoracic curves (>70 degrees)
Leg-length discrepancy and gait asymmetry

Risk Factors

Female sex (7:1 for curves requiring treatment in AIS)
Positive family history
Growth spurt during adolescence (progression risk)
Neuromuscular disease (cerebral palsy, muscular dystrophy)
Connective tissue disorders (Marfan, Ehlers-Danlos)
Congenital vertebral anomalies

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Asymmetric posture or rib hump noticed in a growing child
  • Progressive curve documented on serial examinations
  • Back pain, neurologic symptoms, or breathing difficulty

Treatment Methods

01
Observation with serial radiographs for curves less than 25 degrees in skeletally immature patients
02
Bracing (Boston, Milwaukee, Charleston) for curves 25–45 degrees in growing children
03
Scoliosis-specific exercises (Schroth method) as adjunctive therapy
04
Posterior spinal fusion with instrumentation for curves >45–50 degrees or progression
05
Anterior/posterior fusion or hemivertebra resection for congenital scoliosis
06
Growth-friendly constructs (MAGEC rods) in early-onset scoliosis

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Ortopedi ve Travmatoloji department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.