Scoliosis can affect children of all ages. While many cases do not cause obvious pain, this condition significantly impacts posture, mobility, and overall health. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for controlling the disease's progression.

Physical limitations

As scoliosis progresses, children may experience back pain, stiffness, and restricted range of motion, which affects their ability to participate in physical activities and sports. Over time, this condition reduces muscle strength, endurance, coordination, and balance.

Poor posture

Scoliosis causes an abnormal S or C shaped curvature of the spine, leading to unbalanced posture. Children may exhibit uneven shoulders, a hunched back, and body asymmetry, which can affect their self-confidence. If not detected early, this condition can lead to chronic back pain, rib cage deformity, and compression of internal organs.

Impact on respiratory function

In severe cases, the spinal curve can compress the lungs, reducing vital capacity, causing shortness of breath, and decreasing oxygen supply to the body. In the long term, children face an increased risk of respiratory failure or cardiopulmonary complications.

Effects on mental health

Children with scoliosis often feel self-conscious about their appearance, especially when they need to wear orthopedic braces or undergo surgery. This can affect their psychological well-being, social relationships, and quality of life.

Medical monitoring and treatment for children with scoliosis are essential. Methods such as physical therapy, orthopedic bracing, or surgery are applied depending on the severity of the condition to improve motor function and limit complications. Parents should pay attention to early signs such as uneven shoulders, a leaning torso, a rib hump, or an unbalanced standing posture.

One shoulder may be noticeably higher, easily observed when a child stands straight or wears fitted clothing. If a child's head tilts to one side or is not aligned with their pelvis, these can also be signs of scoliosis.

To reduce the risk of scoliosis in children, a combination of correct daily posture, avoiding heavy lifting, and increasing physical activity with exercises like swimming and yoga is necessary. Additionally, ensuring adequate calcium and vitamin D intake, along with regular check-ups every 6 months, aids in early detection.

Le Nguyen (According to Times of India)