Recognizing scoliosis in children

The article was consulted with Specialist Doctor I, Resident Doctor Nguyen Hung Tien - Doctor of Pediatrics - Neonatology - Department of Pediatrics - Neonatology - Vinmec Hai Phong International General Hospital.

Scoliosis in children is a congenital scoliosis that occurs in children before the age of 3 years, characterized by abnormal curvature of the spine to the right or left side. Depending on the degree of curvature, it causes the spine to bend to the side in an S or C shape.

The exact cause of scoliosis in children is currently unknown, however, medical studies of infant scoliosis have discovered several theories about what causes this condition. , specifically as follows:
The uterus can be the cause of scoliosis in children. Because while in the uterus, the spine is affected during the growth of the fetus due to abnormal pressure from the muscles of the uterus pushing the fetus, causing the fetus to lie in an abnormal position in the uterus. Due to external forces acting on the baby's spine after birth, for example, parents put an infant on their back in a crib for a long time. Heredity can also cause scoliosis in children. However, the exact gene that leads to scoliosis has not been identified, but epidemiological studies have shown a higher incidence of this malformation in some families where there is a history of the condition. Although there is reliable evidence for theories about the causes of scoliosis in infants, most of these theories still need further research to be fully understood.

Scoliosis can range from mild to severe, as measured by the degree of curvature of the spine.
Mild scoliosis occurring in children can be difficult to notice and must be looked closely at the back or when the degree of curvature increases over time, it is only detected by parents.
Moderate curvature can cause visible postural changes such as:
Slanted and uneven shoulders with one shoulder blade protruding from the other Side ribs more prominent than the other opposite Uneven waist Abnormalities in the height or position of the hips One leg looks longer than the other Overall body appearance is tilted to one side Head not between the shoulders Infants with scoliosis usually do not What pain symptoms are caused by this malformation?

Early detection of scoliosis in children plays a very important role in the ability to successfully treat later. The sooner the treatment, the less the degree of spinal curvature correction will be or stop the deterioration, so it will significantly improve the child's later health.
In addition to asking about the child's symptoms in detail, observing and examining the child's spine directly, the doctor will perform additional tests and diagnostic techniques to see the degree of curvature and whether the child has additional symptoms. Another problem.
X-rays are one of the main diagnostic tools for scoliosis in children and show the exact angles of the degree of scoliosis.

If the curve pattern is atypical or if there are additional abnormalities in the X-ray, the doctor may order some of the following additional diagnostic techniques to provide more information:
EOS whole-body technique is technology that uses extremely low doses of radiation to create a three-dimensional image from two flat images. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), which uses many large magnets with radio frequencies and a computer to create detailed images of organs and structures in the body. Computed tomography (CT), which uses X-rays and combines with computer technology to create cross-sectional images of the body. CT scans are useful in detecting chest problems. Bone density measurement (DEXA scan), which determines the condition and strength of the bones of the spine.

The decision to treat scoliosis in children depends primarily on the severity of the curvature and the likelihood that it will worsen in the future.
Children with mild spine curves (10-25 degrees) may only need close monitoring because these curves rarely become more severe and often correct on their own. However, the observation and monitoring is not only for parents but also requires parents to take their children regularly to see an orthopedic surgeon. During the visits, the doctor will examine and test with x-rays. Visits should continue until puberty, as different growth spurts can trigger more severe scoliosis, even if the child did not previously have scoliosis.
Children with moderate curvature and severe scoliosis are likely to progress more severely and often have to be treated with orthopedic braces, surgery, and physical therapy.
By early detection, the right treatment and the family's perseverance, children with scoliosis will later lead a normal, healthy life. Studies show that such combinations of treatment for scoliosis in infants tend to be successful and that the vast majority of children grow up without any effect on daily functioning. , outdoor games and sports.

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References: srs.org, columbiadoctors.org