Description A curvature of the spine in any axis that causes pain, disability, and occ...
Description
A curvature of the spine in any axis that causes pain, disability, and occasionally respiratory problems. The cause of the disorder is generally not known although it can run in families. Scoliosis is usually diagnosed in childhood. Treatment depends on the severity of the curvature and any other symptoms being experienced.
Symptoms
Pain, curved back, immobility, weakness or numbness if severe.
Tests
Common tests used for diagnosis and treatment
Workup:
A history and physical exam will be performed to determine the degree of curvature. A MRI and/or scoliometer measurements may be done.
Other Specific Tests: Scoliometer measurements
Do I need this test?
Don't screen adolescents for scoliosis. There is no good evidence that screening asymptomatic adolescents detects idiopathic scoliosis at an earlier stage than detection without screening. The potential harms of screening and treating adolescents include unnecessary follow-up visits and evaluations due to false positive test results and psychological adverse effects.
Specialists:
Internal Medicine, Orthopedic Surgery, Pediatrics, Family Practice, Pain Medicine, Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (physiatry), Pediatric Orthopedic Surgery
Workup:
A history and physical exam will be performed to determine the degree of curvature. A MRI and/or scoliometer measurements may be done.
Other Specific Tests: Scoliometer measurements
Do I need this test?
Don't screen adolescents for scoliosis. There is no good evidence that screening asymptomatic adolescents detects idiopathic scoliosis at an earlier stage than detection without screening. The potential harms of screening and treating adolescents include unnecessary follow-up visits and evaluations due to false positive test results and psychological adverse effects.
Specialists:
Internal Medicine, Orthopedic Surgery, Pediatrics, Family Practice, Pain Medicine, Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (physiatry), Pediatric Orthopedic Surgery
Treatment
Treatment includes observation, back brace, physical therapy, and surgery to correct the curvature.