Kyphosis – Scoliosis
What is scoliosis?
Classification of scoliosis
Based on the cause that causes it, scoliosis is divided into idiopathic (80% of scoliosis), where the cause is unknown, and secondary (20% of scoliosis), where a specific cause is identified (osteoporosis, neuromuscular diseases, rheumatological diseases, etc.).
Based on the age of onset, scoliosis is classified as follows
1. 0-3 years, infantile
2. 3-9 years, pediatric
3. 9-18 years, adolescent
4. Scoliosis in individuals >18 years of age is usually due to either residual scoliosis from younger ages or secondary scoliosis.
Diagnosis of scoliosis
The diagnosis of scoliosis can be made with a clinical examination by a specialist (orthopedic, physiatrist, pediatrician). The doctor can then proceed further with a paraclinical examination, which may include simple x-rays and the telemetric method of detecting the structure and mobility of the spine.
Treatment of scoliosis
Treatment of scoliosis begins with early diagnosis and a complete assessment of the problem. It is appropriate that treatment be planned for each patient individually and take into account the accompanying diseases and their particularities.
The therapeutic methods that are generally used are:
a) A suitable therapeutic brace, the use of which has the main goal of halting the progression of the disease and further deformation. The patient undergoes a special, easy measurement and the brace is manufactured based on the measurement data and according to the doctor's instructions.
b) A special exercise program. The program is prepared by the doctor and is personalized, so as to target the needs and capabilities of each patient.
c) Treatment of any concomitant diseases.
d) Surgical treatment in certain severe cases.
In conclusion
Scoliosis is a common condition that affects almost all age groups. Various other diseases, such as osteoporosis, can complicate scoliosis and worsen the existing condition. Early detection and proper treatment of the disease are essential in order to prevent a potential serious problem but also to lead to an improvement in the quality of life of patients.
Advised by:
Konstantinos Tzitzikostas
Physiatrist Rehabilitation Physician
What is kyphosis?
Kyphosis is a condition in which the human spine (the thoracic spine) presents an increased curvature (hump).
Kyphosis is divided into two large groups: youthful and that of middle-aged - elderly
Youthful kyphosis is a pathological entity also called Scheuermann's disease and the real cause is heredity. It is often combined with scoliosis and is characterized as kyphoscoliosis. However, there is also benign adolescent kyphosis, in which the main cause is posture, especially in girls who want to hide their breasts.
Kyphosis in middle-aged and older adults is usually due to the wedge-shaped deformation of the thoracic vertebrae due to osteoporosis and is more common in postmenopausal women.
The diagnosis of the disease is made by clinical examination by an orthopedic doctor and radiological examination to evaluate the kyphosis and the possible etiology. Severe kyphosis in middle-aged people can be a cause of respiratory failure as well as gastroesophageal reflux.
The treatment in most cases is non-invasive depending on the age and etiology using stretching exercises, physiotherapy, special splints and braces. In very few cases of severe kyphosis, surgeries such as expansion-type spinal fusions and kyphoplasty are performed.
Advised by:
Ioannis Chiotis,
Orthopaedic Surgeon,
MD PhD MSc