Scoliosis in Children – Early Detection Helps Prevent Lifelong Complications

Scoliosis in children is becoming an increasingly important health concern, especially among school-aged children. In many cases, the condition progresses silently and is only discovered when the spinal curvature has become obvious, affecting posture, movement, and long-term health.

Recently, the Department of Traditional Medicine and Rehabilitation, Thai Nguyen International Hospital, received an 11-year-old patient who presented with uneven shoulders and an imbalanced gait. Clinical examination combined with X-ray imaging and Cobb angle measurement revealed severe scoliosis, requiring spinal corrective surgery. However, specialists emphasize that not every case of scoliosis requires surgery; most mild and moderate cases can be effectively managed if detected early.

What Is Scoliosis?

Scoliosis is an abnormal sideways curvature of the spine, forming a C-shaped or S-shaped curve instead of a straight alignment along the body axis. The condition commonly affects the thoracic spine, sometimes the lumbar spine, or both.

Scoliosis often develops during periods of rapid growth, particularly in school-aged children.

Causes of Scoliosis in Children

Scoliosis can result from various causes, including:

• Idiopathic scoliosis (the most common type).
• Congenital spinal deformities.
• Neuromuscular disorders.
• Trauma.
• Leg length discrepancy or other underlying medical conditions.

It is important to note that poor sitting posture or carrying a heavy school bag is not a direct cause of structural scoliosis, although these factors may contribute to back pain, poor posture, and make body imbalance more noticeable.

Warning Signs Parents Should Watch For

Parents should take their child for evaluation if they notice any of the following signs:

• Uneven shoulders, with one shoulder higher than the other.
• Uneven shoulder blades.
• Asymmetrical waist or trunk.
• A rib hump or one side of the back appearing higher when the child bends forward.
• Habitual leaning while sitting, uneven shoulder posture, or frequent complaints of back fatigue.

These signs can appear early and are often overlooked without careful observation.

Delayed Detection May Lead to Long-Term Consequences

If the spinal curve continues to progress while the child is growing, scoliosis may lead to:

• Body deformity and cosmetic concerns.
• Back pain in adulthood.
• Reduced mobility.
• Impaired heart and lung function in severe cases.
• The need for spinal corrective surgery.

Therefore, routine scoliosis screening during school age is extremely important.

Rehabilitation – The “Golden Period” Is Early Detection

According to physicians at the Department of Traditional Medicine and Rehabilitation, most mild and moderate scoliosis cases can be successfully managed with conservative treatment when identified early.

At Thai Nguyen International Hospital, children receive:

• Comprehensive spinal assessment and curve evaluation.
• Individualized posture-correction exercises.
• Strengthening exercises for the back, abdominal, and core muscles.
• Guidance on proper sitting posture, school bag use, and daily activities.
• Regular follow-up to monitor curve progression.

In selected cases, physicians may recommend a spinal brace to help prevent further curvature progression during growth.

Supporting Children for a Healthy Spine

The Department of Traditional Medicine and Rehabilitation, Thai Nguyen International Hospital is committed to supporting parents through screening, evaluation, and treatment of school-age scoliosis, helping children grow up healthy with a strong and well-aligned spine while minimizing the risk of long-term complications.

TNH Hospital Group Joint Stock Company

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🌐 tnh.com.vn

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