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Spinal Curvature: Causes, Symptoms and Treatment

Spinal curvature is a common condition that can lead to various complications if left untreated. There are three types of curvature: lateral - scoliosis, anteriorly - lordosis and posteriorly - kyphosis. The adult spine has slight curves anteriorly and posteriorly, which form gradually as the body grows, especially after the child learns to stand and walk. They are not considered curvatures and are called physiological.

In contrast to physiological curvatures, when the spine is curved anteriorly and posteriorly, the normal lordosis or kyphosis for a given area increases sharply, or kyphosis appears in place of the physiological lordosis, and vice versa. Scoliosis, at any degree and in any part of the spine, refers to curvatures, since physiological scoliosis does not exist.

Causes of spinal curvature

Scoliosis can be congenital, where there is abnormal development of the vertebrae, but it is much more common in children between 5 and 15 years of age, especially schoolchildren. Incorrect posture of children during school activities leads to uneven distribution of the load on the spine and back muscles, which tires and weakens them. Weak back muscles, poor posture and a protruding shoulder blade are warning signs of scoliosis.

Subsequently, changes occur in the spinal ligaments and the shape of the vertebrae themselves, and a persistent lateral curvature is formed. Scoliosis can also be a consequence of severe rickets suffered in childhood, and in adults - prolonged asymmetrical loads on the back muscles (so-called professional scoliosis in violinists, seamstresses, porters, etc.). In these cases, when the growth of the skeleton is already complete, the curvature develops more slowly and rarely reaches the same degree as in children. Scoliosis is sometimes caused by a vertebral fracture or its destruction by a painful process, especially tuberculosis. When one leg is shortened, when a person must bend to the side to step on it, so-called functional scoliosis occurs.

Symptoms of spinal curvature

Spinal curvature can present with a variety of symptoms, depending on its severity and location. In the initial stages, scoliosis may not show any symptoms, but as the angle of curvature increases, the following signs may appear:

1. Shoulder inequality: One shoulder may be higher than the other.
2. Pelvic tilt: The pelvis may tilt to one side.
3. Uneven distribution of weight on the legs: When standing, the legs may be loaded unevenly.
4. Inconvenience and pain in the back: pain can occur both at the site of the curvature and in other parts of the back.
5. Fatigue: A person may get tired more quickly when doing physical activity.
6. Restricted movement: A curvature of the spine can lead to limited movement in the spine and some joints.

Treatment of spinal curvature

Treatment for spinal curvature depends on its type, degree and age of the patient. In the initial stages of scoliosis, conservative treatment can help improve the condition of the spine and stop the progression of the curvature. Conservative treatment may include exercise, posture correction, massage and physical therapy. In some cases, a special spinal brace may be prescribed to help keep the spine in the correct position.

More severe cases of spinal curvature may require surgery. Surgery may be necessary if the curvature of the spine progresses quickly, causes severe pain and restriction of movement, or if the curvature does not respond to conservative treatment. Surgery may involve realigning the spine using metal implants and fixation devices.

In any case, if you suspect spinal curvature, you must consult an orthopedic doctor or neurologist for diagnosis and prescribing appropriate treatment. Seeking help early can help prevent serious complications from developing.