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What is Scoliosis?

Scoliosis is a condition of sideways curvature of the spine commonly diagnosed in adolescence. Most cases of childhood scoliosis have an idiopathic cause. Adults suffering from muscular dystrophy, cerebral palsy, and several other diseases may also experience this condition.

While most cases of scoliosis are mild, some curvature worsens as children age. Severe scoliosis may be disabling. A severe spine curve can reduce the space in the chest, making it harder for the lungs to work correctly.

What is the Importance of Timely Treatment?

Early therapy is essential because it slows disease progression, lowers complications, and enhances recovery. This improves quality of life, reduces healthcare costs, and increases the likelihood of effective treatment. It also lowers the risk of chronic conditions, prevents the spreading of infectious diseases, and improves mental health due to reduced stress.

What are the Common Symptoms of Scoliosis?

The symptoms of scoliosis can be:

  • One shoulder blade stands out more than the other.
  • Waist uneven.
  • Higher on one hip than the other.
  • Uneven shoulders.
  • The rib cage extends forward on one side.
  • When bending forward, some parts of the back protrude.

Causes and Risk Factors of Scoliosis

Causes

Idiopathic reasons cause scoliosis: These are the most common type of scoliosis in teenagers, but they have no recognised cause.

Congenital scoliosis: deformities in the spine caused by abnormal development in the spine during fetal life

Neuromuscular scoliosis is caused by neurological or muscular disorders that impact posture and muscle control, such as spina bifida and cerebral palsy.

Age-related changes in the spine, including osteoporosis or wear and tear, may cause degenerative scoliosis, which leads to spinal misalignment.

Traumatic Scoliosis: It can occur through trauma or injury to the spine, such as a sports injury or auto accident.

Risk Factors

Age: Scoliosis is more common in children and adolescents, especially during growth spurts.

Sex: Scoliosis is more common in women, especially with more severe curves.

Family History: There might be a hereditary factor if there is a family history of scoliosis.

Certain Medical Conditions: People with cerebral palsy, muscular dystrophy, and other neuromuscular disorders are more likely to have scoliosis.

Growth spurts: Adolescents are more susceptible to idiopathic scoliosis, especially during fast growth.

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Latest Research and Technologies in the Treatment of Scoliosis in India

The study indicates that the ApiFix treatment retains most of the spine's flexibility while improving its curve. It is easier to put it surgically than standard spinal operations. Patients recuperate more quickly at home and spend less time in the hospital.

Scoliosis Prevention Tips

Although scoliosis cannot be prevented, keeping the spine healthy may be achieved by avoiding heavy lifting, maintaining proper posture, and strengthening back and core muscles. Routine examination is also essential and should be encouraged, especially for young people experiencing periods of growth. Wearing supportive shoes, leading an active lifestyle through yoga or swimming, and eating a balanced diet with adequate vitamin D and calcium products can also help.

Treatment options for Scoliosis

Spinal Fusion: permanently combines two or more vertebrae within the spinal column and is required for severe scoliosis.


Cost Start From USD 6500 - USD 9500Explore Options

Scoliosis Surgery: is usually recommended for severe cases of scoliosis or when the spinal curve worsens despite bracing or physical therapy.


Cost Start From USD 8000 - USD 10000Explore Options

  • Clinical assessment:
    • Physical examination: During this examination, the physician looks for any indicators of asymmetry, readily apparent curvature, or uneven shoulders or hips. The physician might also check the patient's gait and posture.
    • Range-of-motion tests: To assess the spine's flexibility or range of motion, the physician may ask the patient to bend forward or twist and observe how the spine moves.
    • Neurological Examination: The physician checks for signs of nerve involvement, including weakness, numbness, or unusual reflexes, which could indicate spinal curve-induced nerve compression.
    • ForwardBendTest: The examiner looks for abnormal spine curvature when the patient bends forward at the waist. This test helps detect scoliosis early.
  • Imaging Tests:
    • X-rays are the most common method of imaging scoliosis. Cobb's angle assesses the degree of spinal curvature. Structural abnormalities, such as deformity in the vertebral body or degeneration, can also be evaluated.
    • MRI Scan: The soft tissues surrounding the spine, including the muscles, nerves, and spinal cord, are captured in fine detail. The scan finds nerve compression or spinal cord involvement abnormalities in these tissues.
    • CT Scans: Less common. CT scans can provide 3D spine imaging to better view bone structures and abnormalities in the vertebrae, which may not be as clear on X-rays.
    • Bone Scintigraphy: This is used to detect abnormalities of the bone structure, such as infections and tumours that may be causing scoliosis.
  • Other diagnostic:
    • Assessment of Posture and Gait: The physician examines the patient's posture for imbalance, leaning, or trouble keeping upright. This helps the physician determine how the spine's curvature impacts the spine's curvature impacts the body's alignment and mobility.
    • Balance Test: Balance is evaluated to determine how scoliosis may affect coordination or cause instability. This is especially crucial in extreme situations where the curvature may impact the neurological system or cause problems with walking and balance.

MediRehab (chain of Rehab centres - Part of MediGence) provides comprehensive rehabilitation services designed to support scoliosis patients in India. These services include:

PhysicalTherapy: A physical therapist can suggest an exercise regimen to increase flexibility, strengthen the muscles that surround the spine, and encourage better posture. This could lessen discomfort, improve range of motion, and lower the curve's chance of worsening.

Bracing: In the case of moderate scoliosis, wearing a brace may help prevent curvature from worsening as a teenager ages. The brace controls the progression of the curve but does not repair it.

  • Depending on the situation, your healthcare professional may prescribe medicine to help control your symptoms and support the treatment plan.

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Hospitals for Scoliosis in India

Apollo Hospital: Top Doctors, and Reviews
Apollo Hospital

Chennai, India

Apollo Hospital located in Chennai, India is accredited by JCI, NABH. Also listed below are some of the most prominent infrastructural details:

  • Committed Centers of Excellence involving many major specialties, super specialties
  • Assistance in trip planning and execution
  • Insurance related assistance
  • Visa facilitation
  • International patient representatives for complete end to end travel and transfer processing for medical travellers
  • Language translators availability
  • Robust safety and infection protocols
  • Personalised, Visa and Premium Health Checks available
  • Health Library and accessing health records online
  • Wide variety of procedures accomplished including complex and critical procedures
  • Technologically advanced systems and procedures in place
  • Research and academics base of healthcare delivery
Apollo Multispecialty Hospitals: Top Doctors, and Reviews
Apollo Multispecialty Hospitals

Kolkata, India

Apollo Multispecialty Hospitals located in Kolkata, India is accredited by JCI, NABH. Also listed below are some of the most prominent infrastructural details:

  • International patient Center
  • Focus on research and innovation
  • Different amenities: Transport, Security, Travel Desk, Places of Worship, Telecommunication Service, Special Nurse, Food & Dietary Services
  • Several kinds of rooms: General ward, Semi Private Rooms, Private Rooms, Deluxe, Super Deluxe, Suite, Maharaja Suite, HDU, Gastro ICU, Emergency, Neonatal ICU, Level 1, Level 2 & Level 3
  • Health Insurance coverage available
  • Here is a comprehensive list of the various kinds of key medical procedures performed through the latest technology.
  • Arthroscopy
  • Bone Marrow Transplant
  • Cosmetic Surgery
  • Da Vinci Robotic Surgical System
  • Fractional Flow Reserve (FFR)
  • Hand Microsurgery
  • Hip Arthroscopy
  • Minimally Invasive Cardiac Surgery
  • Minimally Invasive Subvastus Total Knee Replacement
  • Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery
  • 128 Slice PET CT
  • Bioresorbable Vascular Scaffold (BVS)
  • ECMO
  • OCT Technique - Optical Coherence Tomography
  • Single Port Endoscopic technique of Carpal Tunnel Release (ECTR)
Manipal Hospital, Yeshwantpur: Top Doctors, and Reviews
Manipal Hospital, Yeshwantpur

Bangalore, India

Manipal Hospital, Yeshwantpur located in Bengaluru, India is accredited by NABH. Also listed below are some of the most prominent infrastructural details:

  • Super-specialty healthcare facility
  • Started operations in July 2008
  • Video consultations with specialists
  • Various health checkup packages available
  • Technological applications in healthcare and healthcare delivery
  • Many ancillar services available like
    • ICU, NICU
    • Physiotherapy
    • Referral lab
    • Teleradiology / telemedicine
    • Pharmacy
    • Imaging facilities
  • Rehabilitation services, 24 hour emergency services, operating theatre, ambulatory and daycare, cafeteria, and many kinds of patient accomodation.

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Why Choose India for Scoliosis Treatment?

India is the most popular destination for scoliosis treatment due to its world-class medical facilities, highly qualified doctors, and up-to-date technology. The expense of therapy without compromising quality is very low compared with Western countries. Indian hospitals offer modern techniques, quicker accessibility to care, and excellent post-surgery rehabilitation. With a rich record of positive results and advanced medical tourism infrastructure, India is providing scoliosis patients across the globe with an inexpensive, reliable, and efficient solution.

Frequently Asked Questions

The course of treatment for scoliosis depends on the degree of the curve. For minor cases, regular monitoring and observation may be enough. Bracing can help stop the growth of moderate scoliosis, especially in developing youngsters. Specific exercises and physical treatment can strengthen the spine and improve posture. In extreme situations, spinal fusion surgery can be required to support the spine and correct the curvature.

You should consult if you can feel and notice the following visible curvature conditions of the spine: uneven shoulders, uneven hips, or sagging posture. Moreover, if your curvature is worsening, causing pain, or affecting your day-to-day activities, it is essential to treat it. Early treatment is crucial to prevent problems from worsening for kids and teens, especially during growth spurts.

The degree of the curve and the child's age will determine the type of treatment scoliosis is given in children and adolescents. Doctors can advise routine follow-up to watch for any changes that might occur with moderate scoliosis (curves less than 20 degrees). A brace is often recommended for mild cases (20–40 degrees) to prevent curvature from worsening with time as the kid grows up. Muscles around the spine may also need to be strengthened and improved with posture, where physical therapy or some exercises can be recommended.

Exercise alone does not treat scoliosis; however, the condition can be controlled. Schroth Method-based exercises enhance flexibility, strengthen the muscles around the spine, and improve posture. These exercises also increase the spine's general functions, decrease the pain level, and postpone the advancement of the curve. Exercise can play a significant role in treating mild and moderate cases of scoliosis, but for severe cases, bracing or surgery (spinal fusion) may still be required.

Spinal fusion surgery treats severe scoliosis by permanently connecting two or more vertebrae in the spine. The procedure uses bone grafts, rods, and screws to support the spine and prevent it from curving further. The goal is to reverse the advancement of the curve and improve spinal alignment.

Recovery usually takes a few months after scoliosis surgery. Most patients should expect to stay in the hospital four to seven days after surgery. It may take six to twelve months to fully recover, including regaining strength and flexibility. Patients should limit their activity level during the first few weeks and follow post-surgery orders given by the surgeon, such as wearing a brace, undergoing physical therapy, and gradually increasing movement.

Yes, Scoliosis can be painful, especially in cases of significant curvature or complications such as nerve compression, muscular strain, or other effects. Most backaches and pain are caused by the muscles' difficulty maintaining a correct posture against the incorrect bend.

Scoliosis can affect respiration at severe levels of curvature. When the degree of curvature becomes significant enough, less space is available for the expansion of the lungs, especially in the thoracic spine area. This space restriction can also lead to respiratory distress.

Yes, if the scoliosis is extreme, it could lead to more serious health complications. Some examples include chronic back pain, nerve compression that may lead to pain or numbness, breathing problems caused by a decreased lung capacity, digestive issues caused by organ compression, and poor posture that affects balance.