Scoliosis is a condition that is commonly undetected by those who have it. Often with teens and children, parents only consider that their child may have scoliosis when they notice that the child has uneven shoulders or an uneven waistline.

Some people only discover that they have scoliosis after a chest X-ray, as part of their annual health check-up.

There are different types of scoliosis — congenital or acquired, for example. A common type of scoliosis occurs during adolescence. Each type has different pathologies and treatments. In this article, the doctor will discuss adolescent scoliosis, which is common, as mentioned, but has little impact on daily life.

Scoliosis is categorized based on the age of the onset — such as congenital scoliosis (present from birth) or scoliosis that develops later in life. In most cases, scoliosis occurs without any identifiable cause. And it is not related to genetics. Most instances involve a slight curvature of the spine. Fortunately, it is generally harmless.

During adolescence, when the spine grows rapidly along with the increase in height, the risk of developing a spinal curvature is at its greatest. This is the age when careful monitoring is required if significant curvature occurs. Treatment may be necessary for severe cases. However, if the scoliosis is mild, treatment is not required.
 
Now, the doctor will address some common questions about scoliosis.

1. I have scoliosis. What type of career would be suitable for me?
You can choose any career you like, just like anyone else. If you are able to bend, arch, and twist your back, nothing is holding you back. However, a bit of caution is recommended as people with scoliosis may experience back pain more often than others. We recommend regularly exercising your core muscles, including your abdominal and lower back muscles, to increase body balance and reduce the workload on the spine.

2. Is there a chance that my scoliosis will worsen?
You will likely grow normally, just like everyone else. However, as mentioned earlier, you should monitor the degree of your curvature to see if it has increased significantly. If the increase exceeds a specified threshold, further treatment must be considered — this may include wearing a brace or undergoing surgery.

3. Having scoliosis, what kind of career should I avoid?
There are no limits on the type of career you can have — but, to be extra safe, if possible, try to avoid careers that require sitting for long periods, frequent bending, or heavy lifting, as these activities may increase the chance of back pain. However, these activities do not worsen the angle of spinal curvature.

4. When will the bones stop becoming increasingly crooked?
In most cases, the spine stops curving as growth in body height ceases. Typically, this occurs around age 20, but in some cases, it can happen earlier.

5. I’m a woman with scoliosis. Can I have children?
You can certainly have children. There is no connection between scoliosis and hormones, the uterus, or the reproductive organs. Moreover, if you are pregnant and gain some weight, it will not affect the curvature of your spine. Regarding the form of birth, you can give birth both naturally or by cesarean section.

6. Is scoliosis genetic?
Current research has not found any genetic connection to scoliosis. If a parent has scoliosis, it will not be passed on to their children.

7. Scoliosis does not seem like a major problem. But what are the most common issues associated with it?
Well, scoliosis is generally not a significant problem for males. However, it can be problematic for some females as it can affect body image. Having an attractive figure is something many females desire and stress over, especially during adolescence. Adolescent female patients with scoliosis often have lower self-confidence and are more concerned about their body shape.
 
Parents play a crucial role in their daughters’ life. Parents should highlight the positive aspects of their daughters’ personalities rather than focusing on their physical appearance.

8. Can scoliosis be cured?
If you have scoliosis, it is important to know that it will not go away and there is currently no treatment to fully straighten the spine. However, there is no need to worry. Most people with a slight curvature of the spine do not experience any symptoms, or if they do, it is generally only a mild pain at times. With proper treatment and physical therapy, managing the body correctly can help reduce any pain.

9. I have scoliosis. What exercises can I do?
You can exercise just like anyone else. We recommended sports such as running, swimming, yoga, and Pilates. Sports you should be careful with though include extreme sports, weight training, badminton, golf, and boxing, to name a few. However, if you can strengthen your core muscles and overall body, you can perform these riskier exercises without issue.

10. What is scoliosis treatment like?
Treatment of scoliosis is divided into surgical and non-surgical treatments. Non-surgical methods 

include back muscle exercises and back stretching. These are good for preventing back pain caused by the scoliosis. Pilates is one great exercise.

Yoga that focuses on stretching your back is also beneficial. Hanging on a bar helps your back become more flexible. There is also wearing a brace. Wearing a brace, however, depends on the doctor's discretion. Braces must be worn both day and night to be effective and can only be removed when showering. Generally, most patients can’t tolerate wearing a brace all day, so it’s often avoided.

Then there is surgery. Surgery is only considered if the curvature is severe or if there is pressure on the nerves causing leg weakness. Before surgery, patients must have a consultation with their surgeon to go over the details and risks. Surgery will involve a large incision, some blood loss, and a long recovery time.

If you suspect that you may have scoliosis, we recommend that you visit the doctor for an X-ray and diagnosis. It’s important to know the amount of curvature you have so that you can get the proper treatment if needed.