Our pediatric spine specialists diagnose and treat all types of scoliosis. We offer the most advanced treatment options and care for the physical and emotional issues that can accompany scoliosis. We are one of the only programs in the state to use Mehta casting for young patients and the only pediatric facility in Texas to use 3D custom-created guides for scoliosis surgery. We’ll help your family understand treatment options and select the one that will help relieve your child’s discomfort and improve their spine health.
Overview
Scoliosis is a relatively rare condition where the spine curves sideways. It typically affects children age 10 and older and is often found during a screening with your child’s pediatrician or at their school.
Scoliosis doesn’t typically cause pain, though it can affect your child’s posture, movement and self-esteem. In rare cases, children develop a severe curve that can affect their breathing.
Fortunately, many children with small curves won’t need treatment for scoliosis. Small curves typically will not get worse once a child is done growing.
Types
What are the different types of scoliosis in children and teens?
Idiopathic scoliosis
Approximately 80 percent of scoliosis cases are idiopathic, making it the most common type. Idiopathic means that doctors can’t pinpoint the cause of the spinal curvature. It is further classified by the age at which it occurs.
Early onset scoliosis (Infantile scoliosis) - This type of scoliosis develops in children, mostly boys, under age 3.
Juvenile scoliosis - More common in girls, this kind of scoliosis occurs between the ages of 3 and 10.
Adolescent scoliosis - This type of scoliosis makes up the majority of idiopathic cases. It’s most common in girls between the ages of 11 and 17.
Congenital scoliosis
This is present at birth and happens when the vertebrae fail to develop properly in utero. This type of scoliosis is rare and is often accompanied by other health issues related to the heart, kidney or bladder.
Neuromuscular scoliosis
In neuromuscular-related scoliosis, the curve in the spine is caused by a neuromuscular condition such as spina bifida, muscular dystrophy or cerebral palsy. These conditions affect the child’s neurological system or muscular system—or both.
Learn more about neuromuscular scoliosis.
Signs and Symptoms
What are the early signs and symptoms of scoliosis in children and teens?
Children with scoliosis sometimes experience lower back pain or discomfort but most commonly, the symptoms are seen in the physical appearance of your child.
They include:
Shoulders appear uneven
One hip is higher than the other
Waist looks uneven
Rib cage is more prominent on one side
Pelvis is tilted
Diagnosis
How is scoliosis in children and teens diagnosed?
At Children’s Health Andrews Institute Spine Center our pediatric spine specialists perform a comprehensive evaluation to diagnose your child’s condition and create a personalized treatment plan.
Our expert evaluation may include:
A medical history
A physical exam
An x-ray or CT scan taken by a pediatric radiologist
Treatment
How is scoliosis in children and teens treated?
Scoliosis treatment options for kids and teens depend on the age of the patient, the location and severity of the curve, and if there are additional health issues or conditions.
We consider scoliosis surgery only when absolutely necessary. Our pediatric orthopedic surgeons use the most advanced treatment options to ensure that your child can return to playing sports, and other activities, as soon as possible.
Learn more about diagnosis and treatment.
