Scoliosis is a 3D structural deformity of the spine with the high progression periods occurring during adolescence and the growth spurt in puberty
Scoliosis is a condition that affects 2-4% of the adolecent population and small curvatures can occur equally in both girls and boys
What is Adolecent Idiopathic Scoliosis
When the scholiosis occurs between the ages of 11 and 19 years old, this peak onset period of scoliosis is categorized as ADOLECENT scoliosis
Idiopathic scoliosis is one of two major groupings of scoliosis. Having a diagnosis of IDIOPATHIC scoliosis indicates that the cause is unknown and it is not due congenital, neuromuscular or other factors
Scoliosis is offically diagnosed with an X-Ray showing a curve of at least 10 degrees (COBB angle) as well as vertebral rotation
Is it a big deal?
Scoliosis can be managed and treated successfully with conservative treatment, such as physiotherapy and bracing, as long as the scoliosis has been identified early a referral has been made while the spine is still growing
10 Degrees = diagnosed scoliosis
20 Degrees = referral made to spinal specialist
30 Degrees (ish) = Bracing option
50 Degrees + = surgury recommended in many cases
Diagnosis
Scoliosis is diagnosed when a COBB angle of 10 degrees or more is identifed through an x-ray
Monitoring
Curves of 20 degrees or more are reffered to a spinal specialist for evaluation
Treatment
Curves between 20 degrees and ~40 degrees are prime candidates for successful conservative treatment