Understanding Scoliosis: Types, Symptoms and Treatment
Discover the different types of scoliosis, their common symptoms, and effective treatment options. Learn how to manage this spinal condition and improve your quality of life.
What is Scoliosis
Scoliosis, a sideways curvature of the spine, is a common condition affecting children and adolescents. While often mild, it can progress and lead to pain and postural issues. Early detection and appropriate management are crucial for optimal outcomes.
Types of Scoliosis
There are several types of scoliosis, including:
Congenital Scoliosis:
Present at birth due to spinal abnormalities.
Neuromuscular Scoliosis:
Associated with conditions like cerebral palsy or muscular dystrophy
Idiopathic Scoliosis:
The most common type, with no known cause.
Before Treatment
After Treatment
Spotting the Signs of Scoliosis
Recognizing the early warning signs of scoliosis is essential. Parents and caregivers should be vigilant for:
Uneven ear lopes, shoulders, shoulder blades, hips, or waistline
A noticeable hump on the back (often called a rib hump) and an uneven chest wall.
Head tilting or body leaning to one side
Back pain
Uneven torso shape
Difficulty finding clothes that fit properly
Comprehensive Scoliosis Treatment in Singapore:
Non-Surgical Treatments: For scoliosis with a curve of less than 20-25 degrees, specific exercises called Physiotherapeutic Scoliosis-Specific Exercises (PSSE) can help manage the condition. These exercises, when done correctly and regularly under the guidance of a certified professional, can sometimes delay or even avoid the need for a brace.
For curves between 25 and 40 degrees, a combination of bracing and PSSE is recommended. The goal of treatment is to prevent the curve from worsening during the growth phase and, in some cases, to achieve some curve correction.
For curves measuring between 40 and 60 degrees, bracing may still be considered, but surgery becomes a more prominent option, especially if the curve is progressing. The decision to pursue bracing or surgery is a complex one, often based on factors such as curve flexibility, bone maturity, and the patient's personal preferences and goals.
When Surgery is Needed: For curves greater than 60 degrees, surgery is generally recommended, especially if the patient is skeletally immature.
What Are PSSE (Physiotherapeutic Scoliosis-Specific Exercises)?
If you or a loved one has scoliosis, you may have heard about PSSE, a specialized type of physical therapy. These exercises aren't your typical gym workout; they're tailored specifically to a person's unique spinal curve. Let's break down the key points.
1. The First-Line Treatment for Mild Curves 👩⚕️
PSSE is often the first-line treatment for mild scoliosis curves. It's used to prevent or limit the progression of the curve and can potentially reduce or postpone the need for bracing. The goal is to give the patient the tools to actively manage their condition before it becomes more severe.
2. A 3D Correction Approach 🧘♀️
PSSE is based on several key principles. The goal is to get the patient to actively correct their own posture. This involves a 3D approach, addressing the curve in all three planes: sideways, front-to-back, and rotational. The exercises aim to help the patient:
Self-Correct: Learn to consciously straighten the spine in a specific way.
Stabilize: Strengthen the muscles that support this corrected posture.
Integrate into Daily Life: Be trained in how to maintain this corrected posture during daily activities like sitting, standing, and walking.
3. The Importance of a Specialized Therapist 🤝
PSSE should be designed and implemented by a therapist who is specially trained in a recognized PSSE approach. There are several different methodologies, each with its own focus:
Schroth Method: A well-known approach that uses specific exercises, breathing techniques, and postural corrections to de-rotate and lengthen the trunk.
BSPTS (Barcelona Scoliosis Physical Therapy School): A method based on the original Schroth principles, focusing on the 3D correction of the spine.
FITS (Functional Individual Therapy of Scoliosis): A Polish method that emphasizes exercises that correct the spine's curve and improve the patient's functional abilities in daily life.
SEAS (Scientific Exercise Approach to Scoliosis): An Italian method that focuses on active self-correction of the spine and is often integrated into the patient's normal daily activities.
A therapist with this specific training understands the 3D nature of scoliosis and can create a personalized exercise program that is both safe and effective. The choice of which method to use is often based on the therapist's expertise and the patient's specific needs.
Ready to Learn More About BREMJ Scoliosis Treatment- PSSE Methods
If you're considering PSSE, it's crucial to work with an experienced and certified professional. Our principal physiotherapist, Ms. Emily Heah has been a dedicated practitioner of these specialized methods for years, with advanced training in approaches like the Schroth Method, SEAS, FITS, and BSPTS. We have been using Schroth-based exercises to effectively treat structural scoliosis since 2012.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation and see how a personalized PSSE program can help manage scoliosis and improve quality of life.
Schroth Method/BSPTS
SEAS
FITS
Before
After
Bracing: Preventing the Curve from Worsening
A high-quality brace with proper design can effectively prevent the progression of spinal curvature. Patients who diligently wear these braces as prescribed and complement them with PSSE exercises are more likely to halt the worsening of the curve.
A variety of brace types are available in Singapore and Malaysia, including the Rigo Cheneau brace, Gensingen brace, Boston brace, Spinecor (soft brace), and Chêneau principle brace. To optimize spinal balance and treatment outcomes, we strongly recommend 3D designed braces created using both side and front/back X-rays to accurately address the three-dimensional nature of scoliosis.
The Bottom Line
While scoliosis can’t be fully cured, early treatment can help manage the condition and prevent it from worsening. Non-surgical methods like exercises and bracing are often effective, and surgery is only needed in severe cases. By acting early, you can help your child lead a healthier, more active life.
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