June is Scoliosis Awareness Month
June marks an important time to bring attention to a common yet often misunderstood condition known as scoliosis. It was in 2008 that the National Scoliosis Foundation received the first official public proclamation from the US House of Representatives. Congresswoman Allyson Schwartz (PA) declared that each June would be a month of education and awareness about patient care, screening, privacy, and protection.
Join us as we delve into the importance of Scoliosis Awareness Month, explore the impact of scoliosis on individuals' lives, and discuss ways we can support those affected by this spinal condition.
History of National Scoliosis Awareness Month
The Ancient Greeks are believed to have been the first ones to document scoliosis in 400 B.C. It was considered a spinal deformity and, for many years, people believed it to be an orthopedic disease. Therefore, no one tried to come up with ways to prevent it.
As of now, there is still no effective treatment to cure scoliosis. However, many therapies have been developed over the years to reduce the adverse effects of scoliosis. The literal meaning of ‘scoliosis’ is ‘crookedness,’ and was coined by Galen.
The first brace to cure scoliosis was invented in 650 A.D. Wooden sticks were used to improve the backs of patients with scoliosis. In 1575, a metal brace was created for the first time in France.
The French physician Jules René Guérin became the first person to perform a surgical procedure to minimize the scoliosis curve. This experiment, however, didn’t turn out to be a success.
In 1921, a scoliosis patient named Katharina Schroth came up with an exercise to treat scoliosis. This exercise proved to be effective in reducing the appearance of a curved spine. During the 1950s, American surgeon Paul Harrington designed the Harrington rod to surgically reduce the progression of the curved spine in younger patients.
In the mid-1980s, two French surgeons, Cotrel and Dubousset, designed a double rod made of steel, which proved to be more effective than the Harrington rod.
Scoliosis: An Overview
Scoliosis is a sideways curve of the spine. Everyone has normal curves in the spine, and when looked at from behind, the spine appears straight. However, children and teens with scoliosis have an abnormal S-shaped or C-shaped curve of the spine. The curve can happen on either side of the spine and in different places in the spine. In most people, the cause of scoliosis is unknown.
For most children and teens, the cause of scoliosis is idiopathic. This means researchers and doctors do not know the cause. However, they think that a combination of factors plays a role in the development of the disease.
Doctors diagnose scoliosis by examining your child or teen and taking x-rays. This helps doctors develop a treatment plan, which depends on the location and severity of the curve. Children and teens with milder curves may just need to visit their doctor for regular check-ups. Others may require bracing or surgery.
With treatment, observation, and follow-up with the doctor, most children and teens have normal, active lives.
Who gets scoliosis?
Anyone can get scoliosis. However, idiopathic scoliosis, which is the most common type, usually occurs in children age 11 and older. Girls are more likely than boys to have this type of scoliosis. You are more likely to have scoliosis if your parent, brother, or sister has it.
Symptoms of scoliosis
Most children and teens with mild scoliosis do not have symptoms or pain. Sometimes, the child, teen, or a family member may notice changes in posture, which may be a sign of scoliosis. Other signs may include the following.
- Top of shoulders are uneven.
- One shoulder blade (in the upper back) is more prominent or visible than the other.
- One hip appears higher than the other.
- One side of the rib cage is higher than the other when bending forward.
- If the scoliosis is progressing and the curve is more severe, the changes in the shape of the spine can lead to back pain. If the curve is severe, rarely, some children may develop difficulty breathing.
Causes
In most cases, the cause of scoliosis is idiopathic (unknown). Researchers continue to study possible causes for idiopathic scoliosis and think that a combination of several factors may lead to the disorder. These include:
- Genes
- Hormones
- Changes in cell structure
For some children, scoliosis happens when another disease or disorder, or trauma causes the curving spine. These include:
- Congenital factors, which happen during the development of the spine when the baby is in the womb, leading to a curve in the spine
- Genetic diseases, which happen when changes occur in one or more genes
- Injury to the spine, usually from trauma to the spine or back
- Neuromuscular diseases, which affect the nerves that send messages to muscles, leading to muscle weakness and loss
- Tumor, which can cause physical changes to the spine
The Impact of Scoliosis
Living with scoliosis can have physical, emotional, and social implications for individuals. The visible curvature of the spine can lead to self-consciousness, body image concerns, and a potential impact on self-esteem. Depending on the severity, scoliosis may cause discomfort, pain, or limited mobility, affecting a person's ability to perform daily activities. Early detection, accurate monitoring, and appropriate treatment play crucial roles in managing scoliosis and preventing further progression.
Raising Awareness for Scoliosis
Scoliosis Awareness Month serves as an opportunity to promote understanding, support, and early detection of this condition. By increasing awareness, we can reduce the stigma associated with scoliosis, educate the public, and empower individuals to seek timely medical care. Here are some ways we can actively participate in raising awareness:
Education and Information
Share accurate and accessible information about scoliosis through your website, social media platforms, and healthcare networks. Provide resources about signs, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment options, and available support systems.
Patient Stories and Support Networks
Highlight personal stories of individuals living with scoliosis, showcasing their strength, resilience, and journey to manage the condition. Encourage individuals to connect with support networks, such as scoliosis organizations and online communities, where they can find valuable information, guidance, and emotional support.
Collaboration with Healthcare Professionals
Work closely with orthopedic specialists, physical therapists, and healthcare professionals involved in scoliosis treatment. By incorporating wireless vital sign monitors into patient care, we can monitor vital signs, assess respiratory function, and support comprehensive treatment plans.
Awareness Campaigns and Fundraisers
Participate in scoliosis awareness campaigns, fundraisers, and events to raise funds for research, education, and support services. Collaborate with scoliosis organizations to contribute to their initiatives and promote their resources.
As we conclude Scoliosis Awareness Month, we reflect on the significance of raising awareness about this common spinal condition. By coming together to educate, support, and advocate for individuals with scoliosis, we have taken meaningful steps toward improving their quality of life and ensuring they receive the care they deserve.
While Scoliosis Awareness Month may be coming to an end, our commitment to supporting individuals with scoliosis remains steadfast. Let us continue to spread awareness, offer support, and advocate for improved resources and care. Together, we can create a more inclusive and understanding society where individuals with scoliosis can thrive and live their lives to the fullest.
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