Some degree of scoliosis may occur in severe osteoarthritis patient. It is a spinal curvature as seen from the front or back of the person who has it. Instead of being straight shape, spine assume an‘s' or ‘c' shape. The curves are measured in degrees. Curve which is more than 30 degree need to be carefully watched because they can worsen rapidly. Scoliosis more often then seen with osteoarthritis person as compared to general population.
Anatomy of Scoliosis
Scoliosis is an abnormal side to side curvature of the spine. A normal spine will have curves that run from front to back. When viewed from the back, a normal spine will appear perfectly straight. When viewed from the back, a spine with scoliosis will appear to curve to one side, or both. This condition can also cause the rotation of individual vertebra in the spine. The curvature of the spine is measured in degrees,
Causes of Scoliosis
Nearly 80-85% of scoliosis are Idiopathic, which means the cause cannot be identified. Causes of scoliosis may be structural or functional. There are some few known causes of scoliosis which include birth defects, tumors and injury.
Symptoms of Scoliosis
Scoliosis is usually painless. Scoliosis usually doesn't cause pain or limit a child's movements, so it is easily overlooked. Most children receive a diagnosis during a routine physical.
Diagnosis of Scoliosis
As always, a careful history and physical examination are the first steps in diagnosis of scoliosis. The diagnosis of scoliosis is often made on physical examination. An X ray of the back will show exactly where and how much the spine is curved. The doctor can make very precise calculations from the X-ray photograph to determine a measurement known as the Cobb angle.
Treatment of Scoliosis
Non Surgical Treatment of Scoliosis
The non-operative treatment of scoliosis involves observing the deformity with examinations and repeated x-rays. Under certain Circumstances, when spinal growth remains, a brace may be used in combination with follow-up x-rays. Physical therapy exercises have not been shown to be effective treatment for scoliosis.
Surgical Treatment of Scoliosis
The most common surgical treatment for scoliosis is a Spine Fusion using special stainless steel rods, hooks, and a bone graft. The rods are attached to the spine with hooks and the curved portion of the spine is carefully straightened. Then, small strips of bone graft are placed over the spine to fuse it in a straight position.
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