Part 2: Definition and Contributing Factors to Scoliosis

The term scoliosis is derived from the Greek word skolios, meaning crooked.  Scoliosis, as defined medically, describes any lateral deviation of the spine from the midsagittal plane (front to back view).   

Scoliosis can occur from a number of reasons.  Some are diseases that can affect the spine at any age (tumors, trauma, and infections).  The most common form (80%) of scoliosis is Idiopathic (from an unknown cause). 

The contributing factors for Idiopathic Scoliosis are inheritance, diet, and muscular imbalances.  In this process, as a spinal bone enlarges in the developing child, different segments of the bone grow faster than others.  This produces a lateral curve in the overall spine. 
Idiopathic Scoliosis has age-based sub classifications due to its occurrence seen in different growth periods.  Infantile Idiopathic Scoliosis is between birth and 3 years old and rarely has any signs beyond 3.  Juvenile Idiopathic Scoliosis occurs between 3 and 10 years old.  About 30% of this age group will continue to show progression past 10. 
In Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis, the most common sub class, scoliosis continues to develop from 10 until 22 years of age, when the spinal bones reach maturity.  If the scoliosis is severe (discussed in the part 3), an adult can experience degenerative arthritis at an early age and 10 times more like to have congenital heart disease. 
To check your child for Scoliosis, please call the office for a FREE exam and consultation:
Euclid Chiropractic Clinic
60 E. Foothill Blvd
Upland, CA 91784
909-981-5666

Comments

  1. My child was diagnosed with Scoliosis only after I was examined and asked to check my children. I wish there was more awareness for parents to get their children checked. More like going to the dentist.

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