Scoliosis Treatment, Symptoms, and Causes

Dr. Justin Roth, pediatric orthopedic surgeon at The Center Orthopedic & Neurosurgical Care in Bend, Oregon, explains the causes and risk factors for scoliosis, symptoms, and nonsurgical and surgical treatment options.

There are three types of scoliosis that can be diagnosed in children and adolescents. Treatment options vary depending on the patient’s type of scoliosis, its severity, and curve progression.

IDIOPATHIC SCOLIOSIS
The most common type of scoliosis making up 80-85% of cases. The cause of idiopathic scoliosis is unknown, but research has shown genetics play a role in around 30% of patients. Treatment for idiopathic scoliosis generally begins when small curves are first detected in a child’s spine around the age of 10 and up to when he/she is fully grown.

There are two other types of scoliosis that are less common; congenital and neuromuscular.

CONGENITAL SCOLIOSIS
Occurs if a baby’s spine did not fully form, or if it fused together before birth. Because abnormalities are present at birth, congenital scoliosis is usually diagnosed at a younger age than idiopathic scoliosis.

NEUROMUSCULAR SCOLIOSIS
This type of scoliosis can occur in a patient diagnosed with a condition that affects the nerves and muscles. Conditions such as muscular dystrophy or cerebral palsy can cause imbalance and weakness in the muscles that support that spine, leading to scoliosis.

The Center is a leader in the diagnosis and treatment of all musculoskeletal conditions, with ten locations throughout Central Oregon. Founded in 1958 as Bend Orthopedic and Fracture, the practice continues to be driven by leading best practice and innovation. With a staff of 24 physicians and 22 mid-level providers, our expertly trained specialists in orthopedic surgery, neurosurgery, physical medicine and rehabilitation, sports medicine, and occupational medicine, The Center is here to keep our community healthy, active, and strong.

[Ajvocalss]

Hi I have scoliosis and sometimes I get a pain in my calves and it hurts and almost feels slightly num could that have anything to do with my scoliosis

[TempleSquire]

I still dont get it, whats causing the curviture? Bone or muscular trauma?