Part one of a series on scoliosis bracing for adults explores the things that can cause scoliosis.
Late Onset Scoliosis and Disease
Scoliosis is often equated with children and pre-teens, however, adults can develop scoliosis as well. What causes scoliosis in adults? One cause is spina bifida. Spina bifida (Latin: “split spine”) is a developmental congenital disorder caused by the incomplete closing of the embryonic neural tube. Some vertebrae overlying the spinal cord are not fully formed and remain unfused and open. If the opening is large enough, this allows a portion of the spinal cord to protrude through the opening in the bones. [READ MORE] Sometimes other diseases or conditions such as arthritis can cause scoliosis as can injury.
Congenital scoliosis is tied with spina bifida as well as other birth defects during the first trimester of pregnancy. Scoliosis can occur if there is any malformation, irregularly shaped vertebrae and other factors. While it is still not known what causes many forms of scoliosis, one trigger for it is genetic in a great many cases. Idiopathic scoliosis for example has been repeatedly linked to the gene CHD7. Regardless of what causes scoliosis, there is no cure, however, it can be managed.
Scoliosis Treatment Options for Adults
Scoliosis treatment is pretty much the same for adults as it is for children. The three types of scoliosis treatment are: observation, scoliosis bracing, and surgery. Again, scoliosis surgery is usually in the most extreme forms of scoliosis. Observation is usually done over a period of time, anywhere from a few months to a couple of years.
Bracing for adults fit into two categories: soft bracing and hard bracing. Soft bracing is usually mobile enough to wear under clothing and can work with an active lifestyle. Hard bracing is thinner than it used to be and can also be worn under clothing. The amount of bracing as well as how long you would have to wear it depends upon the level of curvature.
So remember, if you or someone you love have late onset scoliosis, there are treatment options available to you. The most important thing that you can do is to follow your doctor’s recommended treatment schedule. So if you’re looking to correct late onset scoliosis, contact a spinal specialist.
This concludes part one of our series. For more information on late onset scoliosis, be sure to read part two as well as part three.
Pivonka Family Chiropractic
1355 S Higley Rd #102
Gilbert, AZ 85296
(480) 892-0022
https://correctscoliosis.com
