Scoliosis in Children
The spine curves into a C or S shape, so the shoulders and hips are at different heights and the body leans to one side.
It usually appears between 10 and 16. Genetics, congenital defects and injury are the main causes, and poor study posture and habits in adolescence often make it worse. It can disrupt healthy growth and cause pain and serious deformity, so early treatment is important.
Common causes
01
Idiopathic scoliosis with no clear cause (80–90% or more)
02
Neuromuscular scoliosis from central nervous system or neurological problems
03
Congenital scoliosis from abnormal spine formation before birth
Signs to watch for
- Body imbalance, such as the back or ribs sticking out
- Shoulders at different heights and an asymmetric trunk
- Arms and legs look different in length when lying down
How we diagnose
History and examination
We check symptoms, medical history and lifestyle, then perform a physical exam.
X-ray
The basic first test. Further tests may be added for a definite diagnosis.
Body shape analysis
Equipment that objectively compares before and after treatment analyzes body shape, posture, feet, gait and balance.
How we treat it
Most cases can be treated with non-surgical manual therapy and exercise rehabilitation. Doctors experienced in pediatric scoliosis diagnose precisely and treat according to the curve.
Manual & exercise therapy
A specialist physical therapist uses hands-on techniques based on anatomy, such as relaxation methods and joint mobilization, to reduce pain and improve function.
Brace
A brace helps stop a curve from progressing. There are soft braces and rigid plastic braces; the type and wearing period are chosen for each patient.
When surgery is consideredSurgery is needed if the curve is likely to disrupt growth or is severe enough to affect heart and lung function. Curves over 50 degrees can keep progressing into adulthood, so the spine should be corrected surgically.