Scoliosis awareness month took place throughout June, but even though we're a few weeks past the awareness month, it's still a good time to learn more about this spinal condition. "Scoliosis can impact both physical and emotional well-being," says Lila Levet, co-founder of Primary Spine Institute, a leading provider of conversation scoliosis correction in Charlotte, NC. "Left unmanaged, it may lead to chronic discomfort, fatigue, posture imbalance, breathing issues or limited activity. Early diagnosis and intervention often lead to significantly better long-term outcomes," she says.
If you are worried about yourself or a loved one's risk of scoliosis, there are a few ways to check at home. Here's everything you need to know about scoliosis and early detection, including how to check yourself at home and how to get a proper diagnosis. Experts also share tips for managing pain.
What is scoliosis?
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Dr. Arthur Jenkins III, board-certified neurosurgeon, defines scoliosis as "any curvature of the spine off of what the normal curves should be." The spine has naturally occurring curves forward and backward that allow us to move and stay balanced. However, when the spine curves side to side, it's characterized as scoliosis. The severity of scoliosis can vary from person to person. It can be mild and undetected until an examination. Extremely severe cases can make it hard to breathe.
The main types of scoliosis include:
Idiopathic scoliosis : The most common type of scoliosis; it "typically appears during rapid growth phases," says Levet.
: The most common type of scoliosis; it "typically appears during rapid growth phases," says Levet. Congenital scoliosis : This type is a defect present at birth. Dr. Jenkins says this occurs "when the spine doesn't develop formally and properly." It can cause "a hemivertebra, where you only develop half of one or more vertebral bodies, resulting in a tilt."
: This type is a defect present at birth. Dr. Jenkins says this occurs "when the spine doesn't develop formally and properly." It can cause "a hemivertebra, where you only develop half of one or more vertebral bodies, resulting in a tilt." Neuromuscular scoliosis : Levet says this type is "associated with conditions such as cerebral palsy or muscular dystrophy."
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