SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS

The most common symptom of scoliosis is the presence of an abnormal curve of the spine. This is either observed or felt. The first evidence of scoliosis is usually detected by a family member or a friend. It may also be identified as part of scoliosis screening at school, a health fair or healthcare setting. Scoliosis is usually not associated with symptoms at the time it is first discovered. Symptomatic scoliosis is more often associated with an underlying disease process or structural abnormality. Signs and symptoms of scoliosis include:

• Visible lateral curvature
• Low shoulder
• Uneven pelvis
• Abnormal rib prominence
• Neck or low back pain

There are several different signs to look for to help determine if you or someone you love has scoliosis. Should you notice any one or more of these signs, you should schedule an exam with a doctor.

• Shoulders are at different heights – one shoulder blade is more prominent than the other
• Head is not centered directly above the pelvis
• Appearance of a high or more prominent hip
• Uneven waist
• Changes in look or texture of skin overlying the spine (dimples, hairy patches, color changes)
• Leaning of entire body to one side
• Asymmetric rib cage (very evident with forward flexion)

CAUSES

The cause for a scoliosis includes any condition, which results in a change of the support system of the spine. This includes spinal joint (facet) disorders, ligament compromise and postural factors. Development abnormalities affecting the bone and/or soft tissue of the spine can cause or contribute to the development of scoliosis. Some of the causes for scoliosis are listed below:

Developmental abnormalities of vertebrae

• Progressive degenerative disc disease
• Advanced spinal arthritis
• Osteoporosis
• Neuromuscular disease
• Paralysis
• Spinal muscle imbalance
• Stroke
• Leg length inequality
• Lower extremity joint replacement with leg length inequality
• Spinal trauma with ligamentous injury, dislocation and/or fracture
• Spinal surgery
• Spinal infection
• Muscular dystrophy
• Hereditary soft tissue syndromes including neurofibromatosis, Marfan,
• osteogenesis imperfecta and Ehlers-Danlos syndrome.