Although the cause of scoliosis (curvature of the spine) is not fully understood, the strongest theory suggests genetics. It is 10 times more prevalent in young women than men. Highlighting that scoliosis is more common in adolescent girls, Liv Hospital Istanbul Spinal Surger Specialist Prof. Dr. Cagatay Ozturk said “Initially, scoliosis causes aesthetic concern, however, it can compress lungs and intestines in the latter stages. Therefore, early diagnosis is of crucial importance for necessary precautions.” Prof. Dr. Cagatay Ozturk answered questions about scoliosis.
Scoliosis is also seen in people with orthodontic problems
The curvature of the spine must exceed a certain angle in order for scoliosis to be noticed. Otherwise, it might be difficult to observe. Scoliosis of the lower back may not be noticed until 30-35 degrees of curvature. If the child is overweight, by the time scoliosis is initially noticed, the condition could have reached to a surgical stage. If the child is thin and scoliosis is in back region, then the condition can be recognized at an earlier age. Additionally, it is possible to say that scoliosis is more prevalent in patients with orthodontic problems.
Scoliosis can progress despite the bracing
In scoliosis cases up to 25 degrees, patients are more closely monitored during adolescence, where the progression potential of the disease increases. Bracing (corset) treatment can be performed for scoliosis cases up to 35 degrees. Initially, the bracing is used for 23 hours a day and it might be necessary to use bracing for a longer period of time depending on the scoliosis onset age. However, scoliosis has a 60% progression potential despite the bracing.
Scoliosis is not a chronic disease
With the current treatment methods, scoliosis is no longer a chronic disease. Surgical procedures can be performed for scoliosis patients who have more 40 degrees of curvature. Surgery, with timely diagnosis and suitable patient selection, can provide a straight spine without any aesthetic problems and patients can take part in all sports activities (except for professional level) as with their peers and can have children in the future.