What is Scoliosis? Signs, Symptoms, and Treatment Options You Need to Know!

1. Scoliosis is a spinal disorder characterized by an abnormal curvature of the back, and can affect posture and daily activities. There are 3 main types of scoliosis, namely idiopathic scoliosis which is most often experienced by children and the cause is unknown, congenital scoliosis which occurs from birth caused by disorders in the development of the skeletal system, especially the spine, and congenital scoliosis caused by abnormalities in the muscles and nerves that support the spine. The causes of scoliosis itself vary, ranging from bad sitting habits to genetic factors, depending on the type of scoliosis experienced.

Symptoms of scoliosis are not only pain in the middle or lower back, but can also make it difficult for sufferers to maintain posture and even experience shortness of breath. Without proper treatment, this condition can worsen and cause serious long-term complications. Here are some important complications of scoliosis to know:

Scoliosis Complications You Should Know About

Untreated scoliosis can cause various serious complications for the health of the body, from physical to emotional. Here are some of the impacts that often arise from this disorder:

1. Impaired lung function

The curvature of the spine due to scoliosis can put pressure on the lungs, reducing their capacity and causing difficulty breathing and shortness of breath.

2. Back pain

An unbalanced curvature can cause the muscles to work harder to support the spine, ultimately resulting in pain and discomfort in the back.

3. Limitations on physical activity

Over time, scoliosis can limit the movement and flexibility of the spine, making physical activities difficult and affecting balance and posture.

4. Heart disorders

In severe cases of scoliosis, the curvature of the spine can put pressure on the rib area adjacent to the heart, reducing blood flow and increasing the risk of cardiovascular problems.

5. Emotional stress

In addition to physical problems, scoliosis also affects emotional health, especially when the disorder is visible to the naked eye. Many sufferers feel less confident or uncomfortable with their appearance.

Scoliosis Treatment Options

Treatment for scoliosis depends largely on the severity of the spinal curvature. Mild cases of scoliosis usually do not require medical intervention, but it is still important to have regular checkups to see if the curve is getting worse over time.

Treatment methods can include the use of braces or surgical procedures. Surgery is usually the last option if the scoliosis condition continues to worsen, especially during growth, because Usually when still in the growth stage there is a possibility that the spinal curvature can worsen over time. Therefore, the use of supports or braces can be used to control or slow the development of the curve during growth.

Understanding Brace Therapy for Scoliosis

Braces are often recommended for patients with moderate curves who are still growing. While they cannot completely correct scoliosis, they help keep the curve from getting worse. Doctors usually recommend bracing when the Cobb angle reaches 20 degrees or more, to prevent worsening and avoid surgery.

The most common brace is a corset, designed to fit the contours of the body. It is worn for about 13-16 hours a day, including during activities, and can be removed for bathing or sleeping. Because the brace is located inside the clothing, its appearance can be maintained.

There are several types of braces or supports used to help people with scoliosis. In general, this brace functions to maintain body posture by encircling certain body parts to prevent the curvature from getting worse. Braces are considered an effective method for controlling scoliosis without the need for surgery. However, if scoliosis is already in an advanced stage, the doctor may recommend surgery. Surgery for scoliosis includes:

1. Spinal Fusion: This operation unites two or more vertebrae so that they do not move independently.

2. Expanding Rod: If scoliosis progresses rapidly, one or two expansion rods will be placed along the spine and extended every 3 to 6 months.

3. Vertebral Body Tethering: Through small incisions, screws are placed along the edges of the spinal curve and linked with strong straps to help correct posture.

Although surgery can help correct scoliosis, this procedure carries the risk of complications such as bleeding, infection, or even nerve damage. Therefore, early use of braces is highly recommended as an effective solution to slow the progression of scoliosis and, if possible, avoid surgery. Without a brace, scoliosis can potentially worsen more quickly, increasing the risk of a more severe curve in the future. For those of you who feel you are at risk of scoliosis or are looking for a brace for prevention, make sure to choose a quality product. You can find braces and other original health devices at The Kingdom Shop, which provides reliable shipping services throughout Indonesia.