Are you worrisome that you may have scoliosis? Scoliosis can be difficult to detect in the early stages. Even during the routine checkups you may have had growing up. One particular study even found that 67% of adult patients with back pain from scoliosis go undetected. Knowing all of the signs of scoliosis can help you. You need to determine if this issue is affecting you so that you can begin to seek proper treatment.

Like most physical ailments, the earlier you detect this problem the sooner that you can get it under control and prevent serious injury.

Keep reading to learn the top signs of scoliosis and what to do next!

WHAT IS SCOLIOSIS?

By definition, scoliosis is when your spine has an abnormal sideways curvature. This condition often creates a C or S-shaped curve and can appear at any age. However it often first arises during early stages of adolescent growth, between 10 to 14 years old.

Most cases of scoliosis are mild and don’t lead to any serious problems. But in some cases, the condition worsens as the child grows and cause extreme back pain and affect lung function.

The exact cause of scoliosis is often unknown and varies from person to person. But scoliosis can sometimes be linked to muscular dystrophy, cerebral palsy, or a birth defect.

In mild cases, the patient is monitored via X-rays to make sure the curvature isn’t getting worse. Occasionally needing the assistance from a brace. But in more severe cases, surgery is a requirement to correct the spine.

SIGNS OF SCOLIOSIS

Often, scoliosis doesn’t have the most noticeable symptoms, especially in mild cases. The most obvious sign is a crooked or twisted looking back, but this may only be detectable in more severe cases. This twisting of the spine can also cause ribs to stick out slightly on one side of the body.

Other common symptoms may include unevenness in the shoulders, waist, and hips. One shoulder blade may look to be more prominent or one hip may look higher than normal.

Another visible symptom is if you tend to lean more towards one side or feel like one leg is longer than the other. If you notice your clothes not fitting evenly, for example, one shirt sleeve or pant leg appears to be longer than the other, then this could also be a sign of scoliosis.

Although most cases of scoliosis aren’t severe enough to cause back pain if you have undetected scoliosis and it worsens backaches can occur. Especially in the lower back.

WHEN TO SEE A DOCTOR

If you do a self-examination and notice signs of scoliosis don’t panic. Most cases of scoliosis can easily be corrected with no surgery needed.

If you believe you may be suffering from this condition, make an appointment with a doctor to get a professional opinion. Although self-examinations are important, you can’t always rely on self-diagnosis so it’s always better to see a medical professional be sure.

For info about professional help options or for more details about minimally invasive spine surgery, check out our website!