| The spine has normal curves which gives the | | | | condition. |
| convexity of the thoracic spine and concavity of | | | | Non-Operative Treatment |
| the lumbar spine. In scoliosis, there is abnormality | | | | The non-operative treatment starts with the |
| in the normal curvature of the spine with | | | | diagnosis, with the use of X-ray and wearing spinal |
| associated rotation of the vertebra. | | | | brace to correct the deformity. Physical therapy |
| Scoliosis may start in infancy but more prevalent | | | | rehabilitation has shown little effect for scoliosis. |
| in adolescents. Epidemiology shows that female | | | | Why Surgery? |
| are more likely to have scoliosis than males with a | | | | The following are the reasons for indication of |
| ratio of 2:1. For curves greater than 30 degrees, | | | | surgical treatment for scoliosis: |
| the ratio increases to 8-10; with females greatly | | | | 1. To avoid progressive increase in the angle of |
| affected than males. | | | | curvature. |
| Idiopathic scoliosis is the most common type. The | | | | 2. Is the method of choice once bracing failed. |
| etiology remains unknown, but is believe to be | | | | 3. For improvement of appearance. |
| hereditary. | | | | 4. To relieve muscular fatigue and pain. |
| Body asymmetry is very common in scoliosis, | | | | Scoliosis Surgery |
| though it may not be noticeable in mild cases. In | | | | Most of the time, spinal fusion is done to correct |
| severe cases, body deformity, back pains, | | | | scoliosis, this is done thru bone grafting, spinal rods |
| postural weakness and in extreme cases heart | | | | and implants. The rods are placed in the spine thru |
| failure may also be present. Most of the time, | | | | hooks to straighten the spine. Bone grafts are |
| scoliosis needs frequent follow up to avoid | | | | then placed to aid in the fusion of the spine. After |
| worsening. In severe cases, surgical intervention | | | | a few months, the grafts heal and become solid. |
| may be needed under a qualified orthopedic | | | | Normal range of motion will still be achieved in |
| surgeon who is best qualified for these types of | | | | areas that were not fused. |