scoliosis Las Vegas
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Scoliosis is a condition of the spine characterized by an abnormal curve such as a side-to-side S or C shape. Most cases of scoliosis are mild but can turn severe and cause deformity if not caught and treated by a scoliosis Las Vegas specialist early. Unfortunately, detecting this condition is not easy. Most children developing scoliosis remain undiagnosed until adolescence when they enter a rapid growth phase.

In adults, a study shows that 67 percent of back pain patients with the condition remained undiagnosed, particularly when the curve was mild. Even when the curvature was moderate to severe, 10 percent of cases went undetected. This is why it is important to know what to look for in scoliosis.

Here is a look at five not-so-obvious signs that could indicate you or your loved one has a curved spine.

Bad Posture

One of the earliest visible scoliosis signs is changes in how you stand. When your spine continues to grow along the abnormal curve, it may throw your hips, waist, and shoulders out of alignment. These changes, while often subtle, can be noticeable way before other scoliosis symptoms. You may notice that one of your hips appears more pronounced or higher than the other, that your body leans to one side, that you limp slightly when you walk, or that one of your legs appears shorter.

Family History

While not technically a sign, you should consider checking for scoliosis early if you have a family history of the condition. Studies show that you have a slightly higher risk of developing scoliosis if you have a grandparent, parent, or sibling who has it. In fact, the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons maintains that 30 percent of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis patients have a family history of scoliosis. More research shows that genetics account for about 38 percent of scoliosis risk factors.

Fatigue

Fatigue can result from a multitude of reasons but if you constantly feel tired after long periods of standing or sitting, the problem could be related to your spine. A pronounced curve makes it harder for your muscles to keep your body balanced and aligned. Due to the extra energy used, they may wear out faster. Severe cases of degenerative scoliosis can also restrict your breathing by applying pressure on your chest cavity. This can cause chronic fatigue.

Ill-Fitting Clothes

Alongside changes in your posture, you may notice that your clothes seem to appear asymmetrical or ill-fitting. If your scoliosis causes tilted hips, one of your pant legs may hang lower than the other. A dropped shoulder can cause similar problems with your shirts. And as the curve worsens, it may become harder to find clothes that fit you properly.

How Is Scoliosis Treated?

Did you know that doctors in the United States make about 3 million scoliosis diagnosed every year? Despite these staggering numbers, many cases of this condition go unnoticed. This is why it is important to pay attention to the signs, especially if you have reason to believe you may have scoliosis.

Early detection in children can significantly improve treatment outcomes. Depending on the angle of the curve, its causes, and your age, your treatment options may range from regular X-rays to monitor your situation and braces to spinal fusion surgery. You can learn more today by calling a spine health expert.

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