Scoliosis

Disease description

Scoliosis is a lateral curvature of the spine that can develop during childhood or adolescence and may progress with growth. It may be congenital or acquired, and if left untreated, scoliosis can lead to severe spinal deformities and impaired function of internal organs.

Symptoms indicating the need for diagnosis and treatment:

• asymmetry of the shoulders, shoulder blades, or pelvis
• fatigue and back pain, especially after prolonged standing or sitting
• postural abnormalities and visible spinal curvature
• shortness of breath and chest pain (in severe cases)
• limited spinal mobility

Diagnostic and treatment methods

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of scoliosis begins with a clinical examination, during which the physician assesses body symmetry and observes for spinal curvatures. To confirm the diagnosis, X-ray imaging is used to determine the Cobb angle and the location of the deformity. In some cases, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) may be required to evaluate the spinal cord and rule out other pathologies.

Treatment

The treatment of scoliosis depends on the degree of spinal curvature and the patient’s age. In the early stages, physiotherapy, therapeutic exercise, and the use of an orthopedic brace are prescribed to help maintain proper spinal alignment. In more severe cases — where the spinal curvature exceeds 40-50 degrees or continues to progress — surgical intervention may be necessary. The surgery involves the placement of metal rods and instrumentation to straighten and stabilize the spine in the correct position, helping to prevent further deformity progression.

Innovations in global clinics

Modern scoliosis treatment now includes the use of 3D printing technology. 3D-printed braces and supportive structures are custom-designed to match the individual anatomical features of each patient. This personalized approach provides optimal support and correction of spinal curvatures, significantly improving treatment outcomes compared to traditional methods.