TAMPA, Fla. – As National Scoliosis Awareness month comes to an end, an orthopedic surgeon with the Children’s Scoliosis Center in Tampa is recommending for parents to be on the lookout for the signs and symptoms of idiopathic scoliosis.
Idiopathic scoliosis is a spinal deformity that causes a curvature of the spine primarily in adolescents. It is the most common type of scoliosis, and while there is no known cause, 85 percent of those with scoliosis have idiopathic scoliosis.
“As with most things, the earlier we’re able to catch and treat scoliosis, the better the outcome can be,” said Dr. David Siambanes, founder of the Children’s Scoliosis Center and director of the St. Joseph’s Children’s Hospital Scoliosis Center.
According to the Scoliosis Research Society, the signs of scoliosis can include:
One shoulder may be higher than the other.
One scapula (shoulder blade) may be higher or more prominent than the other.
With the arms hanging loosely at the side, there may be more space between the arm and the body on one side.
One hip may appear to be higher or more prominent than the other.
The head may not be exactly centered over the pelvis.
The waist may be flattened on one side; skin creases may be present on one side of the waist.
When the patient is examined from the rear and asked to bend forward until the spine is horizontal, one side of the back may appear higher than the other.
“Most importantly, we recommend for parents to make sure their children are seen regularly by their pediatrician for checkups, as treatment options are available for those who need them,” said Siambanes.
