Scoliosis is a medical condition that affects the spine. It causes the spine to tilt or curve side ways. There are different types of scoliosis but the most common type is the idiopathic scoliosis. Medical practitioners have not been able to decipher the exact causes of idiopathic scoliosis. The condition if not checked will result into very serious and painful back aches.
Myths.
A lot of myths have been put forward with regard to this ailment, probably as a result of absence of a clear guideline to its causes. There has always been an impression that scoliosis only affects young children between the ages of 10-13 years of age. Another theory tries to imply that its only old people who are past 70 years that can suffer from the ailment. All these theories are not true; Scoliosis can attack any person irrespective of age. But again, in many cases, the little one are more prevalent to the disease than the old since their body parts are still in the process of growth.
Causes.
Research is being carried out to try and establish the exact cause of idiopathic scoliosis. It has not fully been established but medics imply that it has some genetic traits in it because majority of the patients have a family history of the diseases. Accidents and poor dieting have also been touted as some of the causes of the ailment. Minor or serious accident can result into the tilting of our spine, poor dieting will result into weakening of our bones hence making them to easily tilt or curve. We hope that with time, we will be able to establish exhaustively the main cause of this medical condition.
Diagnosis.
In some very serious cases, our bare eyes can be used to realize the curving of the spine. Its general knowledge that we all have curves in our spines but to a certain normal degree. If the curve is too acute in terms of angle, then the person is more likely to be suffering Scoliosis. Doctors will also use x-ray pictures to confirm or diagnose.
Treatment.
Depending on the type of scoliosis, treatment will take different directions. In young Children who are still growing, bracing is be used to control the curve during growth. Of course as children grow, their bodies and body parts will also symmetrical develop.
Doctors might also recommend meals rich in calcium and Vitamin D to give the bones enough strength. Sunlight is one of the greatest sources of Vitamin D.
Surgery is another method used to restore the shape of the backbone in very serious cases. The operation is meant to return the spine to its normal curve.
Sources;
www.niams.nih.gov
www.tshc.org
www.canadianliving.org
www.webmd.com
www.spine-health.com
