The spine performs an important role in providing support and mobility to the body. When it develops abnormally, a person may struggle with pain, reduced mobility, and other health consequences. NU-Spine: The Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery Institute provides cutting-edge, minimally invasive treatments for spine conditions, including spinal deformities such as scoliosis, at locations across New Jersey. Here, we discuss scoliosis symptoms to help parents identify the signs in their children.
What Is Scoliosis?
Scoliosis is a spinal deformity characterized by a side-to-side curve. Instead of a straight line, the spine curves or slants to one side.
The spine is crucial for supporting the body’s weight, giving it structure, and allowing it to move, twist, and bend. The spine’s shape is key to these functions. When viewed from the front or back, it should form a straight line from the skull to the pelvis.
There are three primary types of scoliosis, distinguished by cause:
- Idiopathic: This is the most common type of scoliosis. “Idiopathic” simply means that the cause is unknown, though there may be a hereditary link.
- Congenital: This type of scoliosis occurs at birth when the vertebrae do not form correctly during development.
- Neuromuscular: This type is caused by abnormalities in the muscles or nerves around the spine, including conditions such as muscular dystrophy or cerebral palsy.
Congenital scoliosis is typically identified at birth and remains the same throughout a person’s life. Idiopathic or neuromuscular scoliosis, however, often develops over time. These types can get progressively worse if not treated, which is why it is important for parents to identify the signs early.
Common Scoliosis Symptoms in Children
Most cases of scoliosis are mild. These cause no symptoms except for a change in posture. Parents may notice the following signs in their child:
- Uneven shoulders or waist
- Shoulder blades that jut out
- Elevated hips
- Uneven leg length
- Constant leaning to one side
- Head misaligned with the pelvis
Mild scoliosis does not typically require treatment. The person will live normally throughout their life, experiencing no discomfort. Severe scoliosis, however, can have widespread effects throughout the body. Patients may experience:
- Back pain
- Stiffness or loss of back mobility
- Difficulty standing upright
- Core or leg muscle weakness
- Muscle fatigue
- Sciatica, or nerve compression
- Chest pain
- Breathing difficulties
If a person is experiencing severe discomfort due to scoliosis, they should seek treatment from NU-Spine. We employ a variety of strategies to treat pain caused by scoliosis and other back conditions, helping patients find lasting relief.
Other Common Causes of Back Pain in Children
While scoliosis is a common cause of back pain in children, it isn’t the only possibility. Other back conditions can cause similar symptoms. Some conditions that frequently affect children include:
- Musculoskeletal strain: This is the most common cause of back pain in children, often due to poor posture, insufficient exercise, or carrying a heavy backpack.
- Kyphosis: This is a spinal deformity similar to scoliosis. It causes the spine to round forward, resulting in back pain and a hunched appearance.
- Spondylolysis: This is a type of spinal cord injury or stress fracture. It is especially common in children undergoing rapid growth spurts or participating in sports.
- Spondylolisthesis: Also called a slipped vertebra, this occurs when one vertebra shifts forward on the one below it. This can cause spinal cord compression.
- Infection: Uncommonly, an infection may develop in the space around a vertebral disc. This results in inflammation, pain, and occasionally changes in posture.
- Herniated disc: Though more common in adults, this condition – caused by a spinal disc that slips out of place – can also affect children.
It can be difficult to tell the difference between back conditions without a physician’s insight. This is especially true for children who may struggle to describe their symptoms clearly. Because of this difficulty, it is imperative that parents seek a medical diagnosis for children complaining of back pain. A correct diagnosis is essential to planning an effective treatment.
Relief for Back Pain at NU-Spine
Patients with scoliosis and other painful back conditions can find relief at NU-Spine. Our resident neurosurgeon, Dr. Branko Skovrlj, is one of the few neurosurgeons in New Jersey to focus solely on the spine. He is an expert in treating spinal abnormalities and has received numerous awards for his contributions to spinal deformity treatments. He employs multiple strategies to treat scoliosis, including:
- Physical therapy: Targeted exercises strengthen back muscles, helping them provide better support to the spine.
- Back brace: A custom-fitted brace can provide external support while encouraging the spine to grow correctly, preventing disease progression.
- Lumbar decompression: A decompression surgery is performed to relieve pressure on the spinal cord, reducing nerve pain.
- Spinal reconstruction: Severe scoliosis may be treated with reconstructive surgery, which uses multiple techniques to correct spinal structures.
Dr. Skovrlj prioritizes minimally invasive procedures wherever possible. These techniques reduce damage to muscles and nerves, allowing for faster recoveries with less risk of complications. Patients experience less pain and can get back to normal life sooner.
Find Treatment for Scoliosis Symptoms in New Jersey Today
Transform your child’s life with a touch of care. NU-Spine: The Minimally Invasive Institute offers the cutting edge in minimally invasive spine treatments. Contact us today to learn more or schedule an appointment at one of our New Jersey locations near you.