Pediatric Scoliosis
Scoliosis is lateral curvature of the spine exceeding 10 degrees when viewed from the front. It is the most common spinal deformity in children and typically appears during rapid growth periods (ages 10-16). It is 8 times more common in girls than boys. Early diagnosis and treatment are critical to prevent curve progression.
What Is Pediatric Scoliosis?
What Are the Signs of Scoliosis?
- Shoulder asymmetry: One shoulder appears higher than the other
- Shoulder blade prominence: Noticeable bump on one side when bending forward
- Waistline asymmetry: Waist creases appear different
- Hip imbalance: One hip appears higher or more prominent
- Head position: Head not centered over the body
- Clothing fit issues: Clothes hanging asymmetrically
Types of Scoliosis
Idiopathic Scoliosis (80%)
Most common type with unknown cause. Genetic factors play a role.
- Infantile (0-3 years): Rare, most resolve spontaneously
- Juvenile (4-10 years): High risk of progression
- Adolescent (11-18 years): Most common type
Congenital Scoliosis
Caused by congenital spinal anomalies.
Neuromuscular Scoliosis
Develops due to conditions like cerebral palsy, spina bifida, or muscular dystrophy.
Diagnosis and Evaluation
- Physical examination: Adams forward bend test, shoulder and hip symmetry assessment
- Scoliometer measurement: Trunk rotation evaluation
- Standing spine X-rays: Cobb angle measurement
- MRI: Spinal cord anomaly evaluation
- EOS imaging: 3D spine analysis with low radiation
Treatment Options
Observation (10-25 degrees)
Mild curves are monitored with X-rays every 4-6 months.
Bracing (25-40 degrees)
Bracing is used to prevent curve progression in children with growth potential:
- Boston brace: For lumbar curves
- Milwaukee brace: For thoracic curves
- Night braces: Worn only during sleep
Brace should be worn 16-23 hours daily, continuing until growth is complete.
Physical Therapy and Exercise
Schroth method and specialized scoliosis exercises help maintain muscle balance.
Surgical Treatment (Above 40-50 degrees)
Surgical correction is required for severe curves or rapidly progressing cases:
- Posterior spinal fusion: Most common surgical technique
- Growing rods: Correction while preserving growth in young children
- VBT (Vertebral Body Tethering): Fusion-free treatment for selected patients
Post-Operative Recovery
- Hospital stay: 4-7 days
- Return to school: 4-6 weeks
- Light activities: After 3 months
- Sports: 6-12 months (depending on type)
Why Choose Prof. Dr. Salim Şentürk?
Prof. Dr. Salim Şentürk has comprehensive experience in pediatric scoliosis surgery. He aims for the best outcomes with modern techniques and personalized treatment approaches. He emphasizes detailed family education and follow-up.
Schedule an Evaluation for Your Child
Get scoliosis screening for early diagnosis. Evaluation with X-ray and examination.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does scoliosis completely resolve?
Surgical treatment significantly corrects the curve (50-70% correction). Complete correction is not the goal; rather, achieving a balanced and functional spine.
Does bracing correct scoliosis?
Bracing does not correct existing curves but prevents progression during growth. Early bracing may reduce the need for surgery.
Does scoliosis cause pain?
Childhood scoliosis usually does not cause pain. If pain is present, other underlying causes should be investigated.
Which sports can be done?
Swimming, gymnastics, and yoga are beneficial. Sports requiring heavy lifting and extreme strain should be done carefully.
Other Treatments
Spine Surgery
Surgical treatment of spine and spinal cord diseases
Deformity Surgery
Deformity surgery is the surgical correction of scoliosis, kyphosis, and spinal imbalance. Effective treatment is achieved with modern techniques and implants. Prof. Dr. Salim Şentürk's expertise in complex deformity surgery.
Endoscopic Spine Surgery
Endoscopic spine surgery is a minimally invasive technique performed through an 8 mm incision. Same-day discharge and rapid recovery are possible for lumbar and cervical disc herniations. Prof. Dr. Salim Şentürk's endoscopic surgery expertise.
Peripheral Nerve Surgery
Peripheral nerve surgery treats nerve compressions, injuries, and tumors. Carpal tunnel, cubital tunnel, and nerve tumors are treated surgically. Prof. Dr. Salim Şentürk's nerve surgery expertise.
Reviewed by: Prof. Dr. Salim Şentürk, Neurosurgeon
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