Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis
Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis (AIS) is a curvature of the spine that can occur in children aged 10 to maturity. The spine may curve to the left or right. Sometimes AIS may start at puberty or during an adolescent growth spurt.
Idiopathic means the curve develops for unknown reasons. We now know that there is undoubtedly a genetic pre-disposition for some adolescents to develop AIS. Scoliosis is actually quite common – in fact, 3-5% of adolescents will be found to have some form of scoliosis. Most of these children are girls.
Dr. Hershman at Florida Spine Specialists is an expert in treating scoliosis. Having been trained by several of the world’s foremost experts in scoliosis, he is able to diagnose and treat all types of scoliosis using the latest techniques in the field. Each child’s case is different, and the treatment plan is tailored to each individual’s specific problems and needs.
Symptoms
It is important to seek treatment for AIS because if left untreated, a progressive scoliosis can result in significant deformity. The deformity can cause marked psychological distress and physical disability, especially among adolescent patients. Additionally, the deformity can have serious physical consequences.
As the spinal bones (vertebrae) rotate, the rib cage “twists” around it, which in turn can cause heart and lung compromise. When progressive scoliosis affects the lumbar spine, the pain can be debilitating.
Non-Surgical Treatment
Fortunately, the vast majority of cases of AIS can be treated non-surgically. Small curves (less than 15-20 degrees) are watched over time for progression. At this stage, no specific treatment is needed. Larger curves (between 20-40 degrees) require bracing to prevent further progression of the curve.
Some adolescents find wearing the brace 16 hours every day difficult. Braces can be uncomfortable, can make a child self-conscious (even though they’re usually well disguised under clothing), and can get very hot, especially here in South Florida. However, wearing a brace can often prevent a curve from getting bad enough to require surgery. Unfortunately, even in the most compliant patients, there are some curves that do not respond to bracing.