What causes scoliosis? While there are some inroads to knowing it, in a lot of cases, we don’t know. This article will explore some known factors for developing curvature of the spine.
Spina Bifida: One Cause of Scoliosis
Spina bifida is one cause of scoliosis. What is spina bifida? According to WebMD: “Spina bifida is a type of birth defect called a neural tube defect. It occurs when the bones of the spine (vertebrae) don’t form properly around part of the baby’s spinal cord. Spina bifida can be mild or severe. The mild form is the most common. It usually doesn’t cause problems or need treatment. You can’t see the defect, but some people may have a dimple, birthmark, or hairy patch on their back. Most people with this form don’t know they have it until they get a back X-ray for another reason. A rare and more severe form is meningocele (say “muh-NIN-juh-seel”). In this form, fluid leaks out of the spine and pushes against the skin. You may see a bulge in the skin. In many cases, there are no other symptoms. The most rare and severe form is myelomeningocele camera.gif (say “my-uh-loh-muh-NIN-juh-seel”). It’s what most people mean when they say “spina bifida.” Part of the spinal nerves push out of the spinal canal, and the nerves are often damaged. You may see a bulge in the skin. In some babies, the skin is open and the nerves are exposed. The exact cause of this birth defect isn’t known. Experts think that genes and the environment are part of the cause. For example, women who have had one child with spina bifida are more likely to have another child with the disease. Women who are obese or who have diabetes are also more likely to have a child with spina bifida. [READ MORE]
Like spina bifida, there is also a genetic component to scoliosis. The most common form of scoliosis that has a genetic connection is idiopathic scoliosis.
What Causes Idiopathic Scoliosis?
At present, we don’t know the specific causes of idiopathic scoliosis. While there are several theories, none have been proven. What we do know however, is that idiopathic scoliosis does have a genetic factor.
So if you have been diagnosed with scoliosis, look at all your options. If you have questions, consult your doctor. He can give you the information you need so that scoliosis becomes a challenge and not a condition. You are a person, not just a patient with idiopathic scoliosis.
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Gilbert, AZ 85296
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