Cost of Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis in India

Scoliosis causes the bones of the spine to twist or rotate so that instead of a straight line down the middle of the back, the spine looks more like the letter "C" or "S." Scoliosis curves most commonly occur in the upper and middle back. This can develop in both lower back as well as upper and lower parts of the spine. And during child growth, this can also worsen rapidly.

• Prominence of the ribs on one side.
• Uneven waistline.
• One hip higher than the other.
• Tilted, uneven shoulders.

• Family history and genetic disorder.
• Poor posture.
• Neuromuscular conditions.
• Birth defects affecting the development of the bones of the spine.
• Injuries.

• Physical Examination.
• Imaging tests such as X-rays.
• Spinal exam.

Nonsurgical Treatment:

Observation: If the curve is less than 25° or it has grown fully. Now just routine followup required. Bracing: When the curve is between 25° and 45° and the child is still growing, the doctor may recommend bracing which can prevent further progress.

Surgical Treatment:

The doctor may recommend surgery if your child's curve is greater than 45°-50° or if bracing did not stop the curve from reaching this point. Severe curves that are not treated could eventually worsen to the point where they affect lung function. This surgical procedure called "spinal fusion" will significantly straighten the curve and then fuse the vertebrae together so that they heal into a single, solid bone. This will stop growth completely in the part of the spine affected by scoliosis. During the procedure, the spinal bones that make up the curve are realigned. Small pieces of bone — called bone graft — are placed into the spaces between the vertebrae to be fused.

• Lung and heart damage.
• Back problems.
• Change in appearance.