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Scoliosis

What is scoliosis?

The medical term scoliosis refers to a fixed lateral curvature of the spine, which can occur in various degrees. This usually results from asymmetrical growth of the spine; as a result, rotation of the vertebral bodies also occurs. The result is that the spine can no longer perform its proper function.

Normally and in a healthy state, our spine acts, among other things, as a kind of shock absorber for the body. During normal walking, vibrations act on our body, which must be absorbed by the spine. With scoliosis, this is no longer possible.

Very often, scoliosis begins in childhood and adolescence, during important periods of growth. The vertebrae and also intervertebral discs shift, or rather twist. Deformations of the vertebral bodies occur, which eventually lead to a significant curvature and later also to a stiffening of the affected areas.

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Table of Contents:

What causes can be behind a scoliosis?

Scoliosis – how does it manifest itself?

What are the diagnostics for scoliosis?

Scoliosis – what is the therapy like?
Can scoliosis be prevented?

What causes can be behind a scoliosis?

The triggers of scoliosis can be varied and also depend on the particular form of scoliosis. So-called idiopathic scolioses occur very frequently, the causes of which cannot be determined. Other forms of scoliosis usually occur as a concomitant of other diseases, for example, malfunctions or diseases of the nerves or muscles (neuromyophatic scoliosis). Certain diseases of the connective tissue can also trigger scoliosis.

In idiopathic scoliosis, genetic triggers are suspected, but this has not yet been fully demonstrated. A distinction is also made with regard to the regions affected. Among others, there are the following types of scoliosis:

in the area of the thoracic spine (thoracic scoliosis)
in the area of the lumbar spine (lumbar scoliosis)
in the area between lumbar spine and thoracic spine (thoracolumbar scoliosis)

Scoliosis in both the lumbar and thoracic spine is also conceivable. This form is called thoracic and lumbar scoliosis.

Scoliosis – how does it manifest itself?

Especially in the early stages, scoliosis can progress unnoticed without symptoms being noticed. However, lung function may be limited with the onset of scoliosis. This is determined during a lung function test. Visually, scoliosis can also be noticeable through a deformation of the back.

Pain or limitations in mobility usually only occur at an advanced stage of scoliosis. Over the years, a protective posture has usually been adopted, which leads to overstraining of the muscles and ultimately to permanent back pain. Other symptoms that can accompany scoliosis:

reduced chest cavity
Shortness of breath
Heart problems

What are the diagnostics for scoliosis?

When scoliosis is diagnosed, the first, important step is a physical examination. This involves a close examination of various points that may indicate scoliosis:

Position of shoulders and pelvis
Symmetry of the spine

For example, if a lumbar bulge is present, this may be the first indication of scoliosis.

Following the physical examination, further diagnostic measures can be taken at our Orthopedic Center Munich East: Spine 4D measurement and, if necessary, X-ray examinations (special bending X-rays), MRI and CT.

Scoliosis – what is the therapy like?

Our doctors can take conservative or surgical measures for scoliosis. The type of therapy depends on the form and severity of the scoliosis present. If scoliosis is diagnosed in childhood and adolescence, conservative therapy is usually sufficient.

This includes a special type of physiotherapy, with the help of which the back muscles should be strengthened. At the same time, breathing exercises are done to reopen the chest and normalize breathing. In addition, corset therapy is relied upon. Modern corsets have a variety of ready-made fits, which can be adjusted exactly to the particular case. The spine regains stability and the back muscles can slowly be strengthened again.

If conservative therapy is no longer an option, surgery becomes necessary. Dynamic stabilization, for example, can be applied to degenerations in the spine. The goal is to restore the range of motion of the spine. At our Orthopedic Center Munich East, we use various systems for this purpose, which we will be happy to present to you in more detail in the run-up to a scoliosis operation.

Can scoliosis be prevented?

Scoliosis can usually not be prevented, because the causes are not determined. It is crucial that scoliosis is detected at an early stage if possible to ensure the success of subsequent treatment. Especially with children should look at the correct posture. Any malpositions or relieving postures should be shown to a doctor as early as possible.

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