Understanding Kyphosis & Scoliosis: Causes, Symptoms, and Management

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Kyphosis & Scoliosis

by Alike Medical Team ∙ Updated on June 13, 2023

Additional names

This group contains additional names: - Scoliosis - Kyphosis

General

Scoliosis is a condition in which there is a twist of the spine towards one side of the body, so that the spine is not straight when viewed from behind or in front. The term kyphosis refers to the bending of the back inward. Kyphoscoliosis is a condition in which there is simultaneous torsion and bending in these two axes. Scoliosis usually develops in adolescence, but there are a number of conditions that can cause scoliosis in old age, including: nerve or muscle diseases that cause structural deformities in the back, spinal injuries, or illness such as osteoporosis or arthritis. Conditions outside the spine, such as asymmetry in the length of the legs, can also cause scoliosis.

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Signs & symptoms

People with scoliosis tend to suffer from back pain more than the general population. In addition, in situations of severe scoliosis, there may be a disturbance in the activity of the thoracic organs, especially the heart and lungs, which can lead to shortness of breath, a tendency to pneumonia and in severe situations, even heart failure.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of scoliosis requires a physical examination by a doctor, and an imaging of the back, such as an X-RAY or a CT scan.

Treatment

In most cases, scoliosis is mild and requires follow-up only. In some cases, it is necessary to use an orthopedic corset, in order to prevent the deterioration of scoliosis. In some cases, back alignment surgery will be needed.

Note

☝ We provide information on prescription and over-the-counter medicines, diagnosis, procedures and lab tests. This material is provided for educational purposes only and is not medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.

National Institutes of Health ∙ World Health Organization ∙ MedlinePluse ∙ Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

☝ All information has been reviewed by certified physicians from Alike

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