Idiopathic Scoliosis

Definition

Scoliosis is a curving of the spine. The spine curves away from the middle or sideways.

Symptoms

A doctor may suspect scoliosis if one shoulder appears to be higher than the other, or the pelvis appears to be tilted. Untrained observers often do not notice the curving in the earlier stages.

Other symptoms can include:

• Backache or low-back pain
• Fatigue
• Shoulders or hips appear uneven
• Spine curves abnormally to the side (laterally)

There may be fatigue in the spine after prolonged sitting or standing. Pain will become persistent if there is irritation to the soft tissue and wear and tear of the spine bones.

Note: Kyphoscoliosis also involves abnormal front to back curvature, with a "rounded back" appearance. See: Kyphosis

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