Lateral curvature of the spine is called ... Causes of curvature of the spine

In an adult, the formed spine has some bends. Their goal is to absorb the vertical loads that affect the body from the outside. These are physiological bends. Lateral curvature of the spine is called scoliosis. The disease is characterized by persistent deviation from a physiologically straightened position.

Brief description of the disease

So, lateral curvatures of the spine are called, according to medical terminology, scoliosis. The disease can be easily detected independently. It is enough to carefully look at the back. In scoliosis, the spine has one or more bends that are not normal.

Severe form of the disease is more susceptible to girls. Visually demonstrates the curvature of the spine photo below. The appearance of scoliosis in adults is associated with inactivity in childhood. As a rule, the disease was not diagnosed in a timely manner, and as a result was not subjected to the necessary treatment. In some cases, degenerative diseases of the joints of the spine can lead to this diagnosis.

Etiology of scoliosis

Many factors can trigger the development of scoliosis. Let us dwell on the main ones. So, the main causes of curvature of the spine are as follows:

1. Congenital affliction. Pathology arises as a result of underdevelopment of the vertebrae. Sometimes additional joints are laid in the column. In some cases, an abnormal structure of the vertebrae is noted . The disease can also develop as a result of connective tissue weakness.
2. Rickets . This disease is characterized by soft bones, muscle weakness. Against the background of such pathologies, lateral curvature of the spine may appear. They are called rickets scoliosis.
3. Paralysis . The basis of this pathology is a nervous disease, unilateral muscle damage. Scoliosis can occur against the background of cerebral palsy.
4. Bad posture. These scoliosis received the corresponding name - “school”, since they mainly arise as a result of an incorrectly selected desk (table), ignoring satchels and carrying briefcases (bags on one shoulder). Continuous holding of the baby by one hand can lead to pathology.
5. Injuries . It is especially worthwhile to stop at the birth. According to statistics, about 90% of children got scoliosis as a result of a difficult birth.
6. Physiological pathology. The vertebral column, when shortening one of the legs, tries to compensate for the position of the body. As a result, persistent curvature develops.
7. Ailments of other systems and organs. Such pathologies cause painful discomfort in the child. As a result, muscle tissue supporting the spinal column is weakened. In such children, lateral curvature of the spine occurs. Such pathologies are called visceral scoliosis.
8. Emotional stress, stress. Introverts, closed children, are subject to this form of curvature.

Most often, scoliosis occurs when a combination of several factors. As a rule, the first manifestations of the disease are observed in children 7-9 years old. The next dangerous age at which scoliosis can occur is adolescence. After all, the body is experiencing the most rapid growth.

You can identify the pathology yourself. But the best way to not miss the onset of the development of the disease is through the child's periodic medical examinations.

Classic signs of scoliosis

As noted above, spinal curvature (see photo above) can be visually determined. There is a group of external signs that accurately indicate this pathology.

Doctors have identified eight classic symptoms that characterize scoliosis. Consider them:

1. The shoulders of the child are at different levels. One is much higher than the other.
2. Incorrect head position. Mentally draw the vertical axis, starting from the middle of the pelvis. If the position of the head deviates away from this line, there is a likelihood of scoliosis.
3. Unequal setting of the hips. One of them is slightly higher than the other, it may even protrude a little forward.
4. The halves of the chest in their arrangement are different in the horizontal direction.
5. Inclined or curved waist.
6. Changes in the structure or appearance of the skin along the vertebral line.
7. The position of the body is slightly tilted to one side. In this case, a shift is always observed in the same direction.
8. While leaning forward, the ribs on one side are visible.

If at least one of the above signs is noticed, and even more so if several are observed at once, you should definitely visit an orthopedist.

Degrees of curvature

There are many classifications of this pathology. We will consider the degree of curvature of the spine. Allocate them 4. The division into such categories depends on the size of the angle of the curvature arc.

Scoliosis degrees:

1. The angle of curvature is not more than 10 degrees. Visually, this asymmetry is almost invisible. The presence of pathology can be suspected by the stoop and uneven level of the shoulders.
2. The angle is 11-25 degrees. This pathology is clearly visible visually. It is observed in the shoulders and pelvis. Pathological muscle tension leads to the formation of muscle ridges in the lumbar region and chest.
3. The curvature takes on sizes of 26-50 degrees. Chest deformity is clearly visible . Often an inner hump forms.
4. The angle is more than 50 degrees. Pronounced pathology. Inability to tolerate even minimal physical exertion. At this degree, internal organs suffer.

Treatment methods

It should be remembered that lateral curvature of the spine is a serious pathology, which, if ignored, can significantly reduce the quality of life and lead to unforeseen complications. Therefore, be sure to periodically undergo a recommended physical examination with your child.

In the event of a pathology, the orthopedist will recommend adequate treatment. The methods of struggle are based only on the individual characteristics of the patient. The age of the child, maturity, gender, family history, and the angle of curvature are taken into account (X-ray shows).

Wearing a corset

Such a method is prescribed for growing children whose curvature angle is 20-40 degrees. Of course, the corset will not correct and will not “remove” the curvature of the spine. Treatment in this way will prevent the progression of scoliosis. At the same time, it must be strictly understood that this measure will benefit only if prescribed by a doctor.

Physiotherapy

An effective method of combating the disease is a complex of exercise therapy. Such gymnastics will strengthen the muscle tissue that supports the spinal column. With an unreleased stage, it is possible to "remove" the curvature of the spine.

Massage

If necessary, the child will be prescribed this procedure together with therapeutic exercises. This is an additional method of training and strengthening muscle tissue. As a rule, massages in conjunction with exercise therapy quite effectively remove the curvature of the spine. Treatment aims to stop and reverse the progression of scoliosis.

Surgical intervention

They resort to this measure if the curvature of the spine is more than 40-50 degrees. It should be remembered that this pathology will continue to progress. In such a situation, manual therapy, massage, therapeutic exercises are powerless. Only a surgical intervention can restore a child to normal life.