Spinal Deformity

Spinal deformities occur when the spine bends or twists in an abnormal way. This can occur for any number of reasons. Minor spinal deformities may only require monitoring of the condition. However, more severe cases may need conservative treatments or even surgery.

Use this guide to understand the spine and common deformities. In addition, you will discover the treatments that doctors use to reduce symptoms and repair the spine.

Symptoms of Spinal Deformity: Signs are visible cues about a health issue. People besides the sick can see or feel signs. A deviation in the height of the shoulders or hips, an alteration in the manner in which the arms dangle beside the body, a clearly crooked spine, or an appearance of the head being out of alignment with the body are all indicative of scoliosis. An inability to stand up straight, a hump in the back, or a hunched forward posture are some indicators of sagittal imbalance.

Symptoms can be felt by the person with the condition. Symptoms of scoliosis vary: most cases of infantile, juvenile, and adolescent scoliosis, for example, produce no symptoms. Degenerative scoliosis is often accompanied by pain. Symptoms of sagittal imbalance range from mild discomfort to severe pain. Spinal deformities also have the capacity to interfere with the spinal cord or nerve roots. Stretch or compression of the spinal cord or nerve roots produces symptoms that may include pain, weakness, numbness, or tingling that travel down an arm or a leg.

Diagnosis of Spinal Deformity: If you believe that you have problems with your spine, then it’s best to consult with a doctor. He or she will take a complete medical history and perform a physical exam to determine the cause and severity of your spine issues. In many cases, diagnostic tests are ordered, so doctors have a clear picture of your spine abnormalities. These include:

• X-rays: Images of the vertebral column which may reveal arthritis, factures, bone spurs, or slippage of the vertebrae.

• Computed Tomography (CT) Scan: A noninvasive x-ray test aided by a computer to make a 2-dimensional image of your spine. The CT helps observe any changes to the bony structures of the spine.
• Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI): Unlike x-rays, MRIs can detect damage to the discs and ligaments using a magnetic field and radiofrequency waves. This gives a clearer picture of your condition and helps to assess any spinal cord injury.
• Myelogram: This specialized x-ray uses contrast dye in the spinal canal. The image provides doctors with a detailed view of the spinal cord and nerves. This helps with assessing nerves that are pinched by a disc, bony overgrowths, or stenosis.
• Bone Density Test: If osteoporosis is suspected, then a bone density scan can determine the strength of your vertebrae and detect any bone loss.

Treatments of Spinal Deformity: After a thorough exam and accurate diagnosis, a doctor will prescribe treatments to help with symptoms and/or correct the spinal deformities. Those with mild or moderate conditions usually only require management of symptoms. Conservative treatments include:

• Pain Management: Over-the-counter or prescription pain medications can help to reduce back pain. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as aspirin or ibuprofen can reduce inflammation and provide pain relief. Steroids can also help to reduce the irritation and swelling of the nerves. Narcotics relieve intense pain, but the potential for abusing these drugs must be considered. Cortisone injections may provide relief from joint arthritis or mild nerve compression.
• Physical Therapy: With the help of a physical therapist, you can learn exercises and stretches to strengthen the muscles that support the spine and other affected areas. This helps with flexibility, range of motion, and balance.
• Scoliosis Brace: Children with scoliosis often benefit from bracing since it encourages proper spine growth. Adults may use a brace to relieve pain. But, since their spines have matured, it will not correct the deformity.
• Exercise for Spinal Deformity: Physiotherapy exercises can be used both to strengthen the muscles that support the spine and to improve the posture and movement of the spine itself. They can be used to strengthen the muscles of the core, improve balance and improve muscle strength in the limbs.

We at Spine Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation Centre (SPTRC) can develop a one-on-one physical therapy treatment plan customized and suitable for your needs to help you recover more quickly. Our highly-trained physical therapists will make your treatment our primary focus and your recovery our primary goal.

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