Priyanka Tiwari
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Suspense crime, Digital Desk : It’s a common refrain from parents everywhere: "Sit up straight!" While good posture is important, sometimes a child's slouch, uneven shoulders, or lean to one side isn't just a bad habit—it could be an early sign of scoliosis. This medical condition, a sideways curvature of the spine, often emerges during the growth spurt just before puberty, and early detection is key to effective management.
Scoliosis causes the spine to curve into a "C" or "S" shape. In most cases, especially among adolescents, the cause is unknown (a condition called adolescent idiopathic scoliosis). Unlike poor posture, scoliosis is a structural issue with the backbone itself. While it can range from mild to severe, identifying it early can prevent the curve from worsening and may help avoid the need for more invasive treatments, like surgery, down the line.
Because it is often painless in its initial stages, the physical signs are the most reliable indicators for parents. It’s crucial to know what to look for, especially between the ages of 10 and 15.
Key Visual Signs to Watch For:
Uneven Shoulders: One shoulder may appear consistently higher than the other.
Prominent Shoulder Blade: One shoulder blade may stick out more prominently than its counterpart.
Uneven Waist or Hips: When looking at your child from the back, you may notice one side of the waist is more curved, or one hip is higher than the other.
Leaning to One Side: The entire body may seem to tilt or lean consistently to one side.
Visible Curve When Bending: Ask your child to bend forward at the waist with their feet together and arms hanging down (Adam's Forward Bend Test). Look for an elevation or hump on one side of the back.
If you notice any of these signs, don't panic. The next step is to schedule an appointment with a pediatrician or an orthopedic specialist for a professional evaluation. Catching scoliosis early empowers you and your child with more treatment options and leads to better long-term health outcomes for their spine.
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