Scoliosis Kids. We've Got Your Back!
Welcome to ScoliosisKids.org! Our mission at Scoliosis Kids is to provide a kid and family-friendly corner of the internet where we can embrace our curves and celebrate our strength! 🦸♀️💪 Join us for fun facts, inspiring stories, and tips on rocking life with scoliosis. Let's adventure together and make a difference in the lives of kids with scoliosis everywhere!
What is Scoliosis?
Scoliosis (pronounced “sko-lee-OH-sis”) is a condition where the spine, which normally stands straight, curves or twists to the side. It's like if your spine decided to take a detour instead of staying on the usual path. Scoliosis is more common in girls than boys, but everyone should get screened. With early detection and support, we can keep our spines strong and healthy!
Get Involved
How can I help?
1. Learn about scoliosis to understand what it is.
2. Share what you learn with your friends and family.
3. Join events or walks that talk about scoliosis.
4. Help groups that help people with scoliosis.
5. Talk about scoliosis with others to spread the word.
6. Be kind and supportive to anyone who has scoliosis.
Commonly Asked Questions
What is scoliosis and why is early screening important?
Scoliosis is a sideways curvature of the spine that can affect children and adolescents. Early screening is crucial as it allows for timely detection and intervention, preventing potential complications and improving outcomes
At what age are you most likely to get diagnosed with scoliosis?
Scoliosis can happen at different ages. When you're a baby until you're 3 years old, it's called infantile scoliosis. Then, from 3 to 10 years old, it's called juvenile scoliosis. And when you're 11 or older until you're all grown up, it's called adolescent scoliosis. Most of the time, when kids get scoliosis during their teen years, it's called idiopathic scoliosis. That's just a fancy way of saying we don't always know what causes it.
What are the treatment options available for juvenile and adolescent scoliosis?
Not everyone who is diagnosed with scoliosis needs treatment.Not everyone with scoliosis needs to get treated. It all depends on how bad the curve is, how old you are, and if it's getting worse. If the curve is small and not bothering you, the doctor might just keep an eye on it. But if the curve is big or causing problems there are a few treatment options. One option is wearing a brace, which helps to stop the curve from getting worse as you grow. Another option is physical therapy, where you do exercises to strengthen your muscles and improve your posture. In some cases, if the curve is severe or getting worse quickly, doctors might recommend surgery to straighten the spine. It all depends on how bad the scoliosis is and what will work best for you.
Can scoliosis be prevented?
Scoliosis cannot typically be prevented, but early detection and treatment can help manage the condition and prevent it from worsening.
Who is at risk of getting scoliosis?
Scoliosis can happen to anyone, regardless of age, gender, or background. While the exact cause isn't always known, it's more common in girls than boys, and it often runs in families. Sometimes scoliosis can develop in childhood or adolescence, but it can also appear in adulthood. So, anyone can get scoliosis, but with the right treatment and support, it can be managed.
How can I recognize the signs of scoliosis in my child?
Look for uneven shoulders, a prominent shoulder blade, an uneven waist, or leaning to one side. Regular checks by a healthcare professional are essential for accurate diagnosis.
How is scoliosis diagnosed?
To find out if someone has scoliosis, the doctor does a simple test where the person bends forward. If one side of their body sticks out more than the other, it might mean their spine is curved. If the test shows a curve, the doctor might do an X-ray to get a better look at the spine. The X-ray helps the doctor see how big the curve is. If the curve is 10 degrees or more, it's called scoliosis.
There are three types of scoliosis:
Mild: Kids with small curves just need to be checked regularly to see if the curve gets worse as they grow. They might not need any other treatment.
Moderate: If the curve is between 20 and 40 degrees, it's moderate scoliosis. A back brace can help support the spine and stop the curve from getting worse.
Severe: When the curve is more than 45 to 50 degrees, it's severe scoliosis. This type often needs surgery because it can get worse quickly. Without treatment, it can cause problems with breathing or other parts of the body.
How can I get involved in raising awareness and supporting the cause?
You can support Scoliosis Kidz by spreading awareness in your community, participating in fundraisers, or sharing educational resources. Together, we can make a difference in promoting proactive care for young spines