Parents in Hong Kong often hope their children grow tall and healthy. However, one condition that requires particular attention during the growth process is scoliosis. About 5% of the population in Hong Kong suffers from this condition, with most cases developing during the adolescent years between 10 and 20. While scoliosis may not pose an immediate life-threatening risk, it can have a long-term impact on a person’s life. Apart from affecting appearance and self-esteem, severe cases can compress the chest and affect breathing. OneEssential’s physical therapists have extensive experience in managing scoliosis. Let us share some important insights regarding this condition.
Symptoms of Scoliosis
The symptoms of scoliosis vary from person to person. Some individuals may have mild symptoms that are hard to detect, while more severe cases visibly affect appearance. Early treatment yields the best results, so if you notice the following signs in your child, it’s best to seek an assessment from OneEssential’s physical therapist to reduce concerns:
- Uneven Shoulders: One shoulder is higher than the other, which is the most common postural change in scoliosis.
- Uneven Hips: One hip may protrude more than the other, or the pelvis may tilt to one side.
- Asymmetrical Waistlines: From behind, the waistline may show uneven curves, which could be a sign of spinal curvature.
- Rib Protrusion: In severe cases, the ribs may protrude, and one side of the chest may appear more forward than the other.
- Back Pain: While many people with early scoliosis may not experience significant pain, over time, muscle imbalances may develop, leading to discomfort or back pain. OneEssential can help assess this and restore balance through muscle strengthening.
- Restricted Movement: In severe cases, scoliosis can limit physical movement and affect daily activities.
- Numbness: If you experience numbness or tingling in the limbs or back, it could be a serious warning sign of scoliosis. This may indicate nerve compression caused by abnormal spinal curvature, which, if left untreated, could cause permanent nerve damage or lead to a herniated disc.
Types and Severity of Scoliosis
Scoliosis can be categorized based on the curvature shape, mainly into S-shaped and C-shaped curves. An X-ray helps to determine the exact type of scoliosis a patient has.
S-shaped Scoliosis
S-shaped scoliosis is more complex, characterized by two opposite curvatures in different parts of the spine, creating an “S” shape. Typically, one curve occurs in the thoracic spine, and the other in the lumbar spine. This type of scoliosis leads to more pronounced asymmetry in the body, such as visible differences in shoulder and waist heights, and may result in more pain and discomfort.
C-shaped Scoliosis
C-shaped scoliosis is simpler and more common, making up about 70% of scoliosis cases. This type of curvature only occurs in part of the spine, such as the thoracic or lumbar region. C-shaped scoliosis can cause muscles on one side of the body to overcompensate, while the other side remains too relaxed, resulting in posture imbalance and back pain.
Measuring the Severity of Scoliosis
The severity of scoliosis is typically measured using the “Cobb” angle, which gauges the degree of spinal curvature on an X-ray. Depending on the degree, scoliosis can be categorized as mild, moderate, or severe:
Mild Scoliosis: A Cobb angle between 10-20 degrees, which usually doesn’t require surgery. A consultation with a physical therapist is recommended to develop rehabilitation exercises or muscle-strengthening activities.
Moderate Scoliosis: A Cobb angle between 20-40 degrees, which may require bracing along with physical therapy.
Severe Scoliosis: A Cobb angle greater than 40 degrees, which may necessitate surgical intervention. Severe scoliosis can also put pressure on internal organs or nerves.
Self-Check Methods for Scoliosis
In addition to seeking a professional checkup from a doctor or physical therapist, you can also perform initial self-assessments at home using the following methods:
Adams Forward Bend Test
This simple and effective self-check method is ideal for parents to check for scoliosis in children. To perform this test, have your child stand with their feet together, then bend forward at the waist to 90 degrees with their arms hanging naturally. From behind, observe the spine. If one side of the ribs protrudes more than the other, it may indicate scoliosis.
Visual Inspection
Visual inspection is the most basic method, and it is often used by doctors or physical therapists for an initial check of scoliosis signs. Look for signs such as uneven shoulders, arms and body gaps, or a higher position on one side of the hips.
While these checks can be done at home, for accuracy, it’s still better to consult with a professional. OneEssential’s physical therapist can help confirm whether you have scoliosis through a one-on-one consultation and personalized treatment plan based on the severity of the condition. Book an appointment today!