YOUR CHILD’S HEALTH/BONE AND JOINT DISORDERS: CURVATURE OF THE SPINE (SCOLIOSIS)
Scoliosis is an abnormal sideways curvature of any part of the spine, and most commonly occurs in preadolescent girls. The cause of scoliosis in this group of children is unknown. Rarer causes of scoliosis include cerebral palsy and muscular dystrophy.
Scoliosis is usually discovered during routine screening at school. It rarely causes problems during childhood, but curvature of the spine is visible in most cases. Pain may occur at a later stage.
Investigations
Most children who are thought to have scoliosis will undergo an X-ray of the spine to confirm the diagnosis. X-rays may be repeated at certain intervals to monitor the degree of scoliosis as the child grows.
Most mild cases of scoliosis will not require specific treatment, but the child should be monitored routinely to see how the condition is progressing. A more severe curvature may require some form of temporary back brace to minimise the deformity. This will be done under the supervision of an orthopaedic surgeon. Surgery is only necessary in the most severe of cases.
When to see your doctor
See your doctor if you are concerned that your child may have scoliosis.
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