HomeTreatmentsTop 10 Orthopedic Doctor in Chennai

Scoliosis is a sideways curvature of the spine, often with some rotation of the vertebrae. When it appears in adolescents (typically ages 10–18) with no identifiable cause, it’s called Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis (AIS) — the most common type of scoliosis, accounting for about 80% of cases. A curve is generally diagnosed as scoliosis when it measures 10 degrees or more on an X-ray (using the Cobb angle method).

Causes

Even though the most common reason is idiopathic its often a mix of various causes like

• Genetics – scoliosis often runs in families
• Hormonal and growth factors – onset frequently coincides with growth spurts
• Neuromuscular and connective tissue factors – subtle differences in muscle balance or bone growth may play a role

Symptoms

Usually scoliosis is asymptomatic with only cosmetic concerns predominantly as

• Uneven shoulders or shoulder blades (one appears more prominent)
• Asymmetric waistline or hips
• One side of the rib cage sticking out, especially when bending forward (rib “hump”)
• Leaning slightly to one side

Rarely severe scoliosis especially in young children can cause respiratory compromise and in adults  cause back pain

Diagnosis

Generally scoliosis is a clinical diagnosis picked up by assessments.

Forward bending test ( adam’s test) is a simple screening test for scoliosis .

Its further confirmed by taking

1. Xrays – whole spine , supine side bending and traction views
2. MRI scan – to assess the neurological developmental compromise
3. CT scan – to assess the curvature and plan the placement of implants in deformity correction surgery

Treatment — Based on Curve Severity and Growth Remaining

• Physical therapy / specific exercise approaches (like the Schroth method) are sometimes used alongside bracing, though evidence on standalone effectiveness varies
• Risk of progression depends heavily on how much growth remains — curves tend to worsen most during the adolescent growth spurt and are less likely to progress after skeletal maturity (often assessed via the Risser sign on X-ray or hand/wrist bone age)
• Surgery (spinal fusion with rods and screws) aims to stop progression and correct the curve; it’s a major but generally well-tolerated procedure with good long-term outcomes

Fusion surgeries

• Generally posterior fusion surgeries with implants are chosen and the extent of correction depends on the severity of the curve, extent of curve, compensatory curve nature and further growing potential of the child