Scoliosis (derived from the Greek word "scolios" = crooked) refers to a misalignment of the spine. In addition to a lateral curvature, the spine also exhibits a twisting of the individual vertebrae as well as the corresponding intervertebral discs, ligaments, and joints.
In most cases, scoliosis represents a growth deformity, meaning it is a spinal condition that develops during a person's growth period, i.e., in childhood and adolescence.
In about 80-90% of scoliosis cases, the causes of the spinal curvature are unknown. This form of the condition is referred to as idiopathic scoliosis. There are many theories regarding the development of idiopathic scoliosis, which are subject to controversial discussions. However, the genetic component plays a significant role in this context.
In addition to idiopathic scoliosis, this spinal condition can be classified into other forms based on its causes. These include neuromuscular scoliosis, which is caused by neurological disorders such as cerebral palsy, congenital scoliosis, which refers to a congenital spinal malformation, or syndromic scoliosis, which is due to genetic or chromosomal anomalies.
Many affected individuals suffer from mild scoliosis, which generally causes no complaints and can be treated by your orthopedist in Düsseldorf through conservative treatment with physiotherapy.
However, if scoliosis continuously progresses, it can lead to a number of complaints and signs:
If severe scoliosis leads to deformation of the rib cage, the heart and lungs can become constricted. At the latest, surgical therapy becomes indispensable.
The treatment options for scoliosis in Düsseldorf largely depend on the degree of spinal curvature that has already been reached. Additionally, the age and general health condition of the patient also play a role in choosing the right treatment.
In general, the later scoliosis begins and the earlier treatment starts, the more effectively the effects of scoliosis can be counteracted. Therefore, early detection of a spinal disease or curvature through regular check-ups is particularly important to be able to take appropriate measures as quickly and early as possible.
A conservative therapy is usually suitable for patients with mild spinal curvatures (25 to 40 degrees) who are still growing. Wearing a brace prevents the curvature from progressing during growth and stabilizes the spine.
If the progression of the spine cannot be stopped by wearing a brace or if the scoliosis has already exceeded a certain degree of curvature that severely affects the patient's quality of life, one should not wait too long with surgical therapy.
In surgical treatment, there are two options: depending on the extent of the curvature, access to the spine can be either from the front (ventral) or from the back (dorsal). The goal of a surgical procedure is to stop the progression of the spinal curvature and straighten the spine.