Causes

The cause of the most common form of scoliosis that develops in childhood is unknown, hence its name - idiopathic scoliosis. Sometimes the child is born with an abnormality of a vertebral bone or spina bifida, which can lead to scoliosis. In a number of cases, scoliosis forms secondary to a different condition, particularly those that cause an imbalance in the muscles, such as muscular dystrophy or cerebral palsy. It may also follow problems with the bones or connective tissues, such as neurofibromatosis or Marfan's syndrome.

Symptoms

Scoliosis often starts at about the age of eight but may go unnoticed, especially as it rarely causes problems in the early years. Parents may see an uneven waist or shoulders, particularly prominent shoulder blades or shoulders, elevated hips or leaning to one side.

As scoliosis progresses it may cause back, limb or abdominal pain and may start to restrict breathing as the lung cavity is distorted.

A simple test involving touching your toes will also show a raised hump on your back. Should you feel that you or your child may have scoliosis, please visit your family doctor.

Diagnosis and treatment

A diagnosis should be made by a doctor after a thorough medical examination. The child's back should be examined when they're bent forward (scoliosis due to bad posture will straighten). Treatable causes should be ruled out. An x-ray of the spine will confirm the diagnosis.

Treatment consists of observation, bracing and surgery. If the curvature isn't severe or the child has nearly finished growing, they may simply be checked on a regular basis.

Bracing may be necessary to prevent scoliosis from getting worse - this must be fitted by a specialist. In severe cases, especially if the child is still growing, surgery may be necessary to straighten the spine.

Further help

Scoliosis can get worse in adult life, causing problems with back pain and increasingly obstructing normal breathing. Talk to your doctor if you're worried.