Scoliosis: Difference between revisions

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<br>Scoliosis can be present from birth. It is then called congenital scoliosis. Congenital scoliosis represents a spinal malformation due to defects of formation, segmentation or mixed ones. It is characterised by a longitudinal and rotational imbalance.<ref>Burnei et al., J Med Life. 2015 Jul-Sep; 8(3): 388–397.Congenital scoliosis: an up-to-date, J Med Life. 2015 Jul-Sep; 8(3): 388–397. (Level of Evidence 4)</ref>  
<br>Scoliosis can be present from birth. It is then called congenital scoliosis. Congenital scoliosis represents a spinal malformation due to defects of formation, segmentation or mixed ones. It is characterised by a longitudinal and rotational imbalance.<ref>Burnei et al., J Med Life. 2015 Jul-Sep; 8(3): 388–397.Congenital scoliosis: an up-to-date, J Med Life. 2015 Jul-Sep; 8(3): 388–397. (Level of Evidence 4)</ref>  


<br>Other sorts of scoliosis can be developed during growth, any causes for this are still not found. We then speak of Weiss Scoliosis 2011, 6:17. Approximately 85% of cases are idiopathic. Based on the age of presentation, scoliosis is further categorised as infantile, juvenile or adolescent idiopathic. Adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) has the highest prevalence of the three categories. This type of scoliosis is present at age ten and lasts till the end of growth. Its prevalence is dependent on the curvature of the spine and gender of the patient.<ref name="Joehaimey">Joehaimey Johari  et al., Relationship between pulmonary function and degree of spinal deformity, location of apical vertebrae and age among adolescent idiopathic scoliosis patients, Singapore Med J 2016; 57(1): 33-38 (Level of Evidence 3)</ref> Epidemiological studies have demonstrated that IS is significantly more frequent in girls than boys, reaching a ratio of 4:1. Anwer et al. described a prevalence of 2,5% with a Cobb angle larger then 10 degrees. They also stated that a variety of risk factors may result in a higher curve progression. These factors include the following: female gender, age of 10–12 years, absence of menarche, presence of thoracic curves, curve size at presentation &gt;25 degrees, Risser sign of 0-1, and residual growth potential.<ref name="Anwer">Anwer et al., Effects of Exercise on Spinal Deformities and Quality of Life in Patients with Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis, 2015 (Level of evidence: 1A)</ref><ref name="Jacques">Jacques H. et al., The Risser Classification: A Classic Tool for the Clinician Treating Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis, Clin Orthop Relat Res, 2012, 470:2335–2338</ref><br><br>
<br>Other sorts of scoliosis can be developed during growth, any causes for this are still not found. We then speak of Weiss Scoliosis 2011, 6:17. Approximately 85% of cases are idiopathic. Based on the age of presentation, scoliosis is further categorised as infantile, juvenile or adolescent idiopathic. Adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) has the highest prevalence of the three categories. This type of scoliosis is present at age ten and lasts till the end of growth. Its prevalence is dependent on the curvature of the spine and gender of the patient.<ref name="Joehaimey">Joehaimey Johari  et al., Relationship between pulmonary function and degree of spinal deformity, location of apical vertebrae and age among adolescent idiopathic scoliosis patients, Singapore Med J 2016; 57(1): 33-38 (Level of Evidence 3)</ref> Epidemiological studies have demonstrated that IS is significantly more frequent in girls than boys, reaching a ratio of 4:1. Anwer et al. described a prevalence of 2,5% with a Cobb angle larger then 10 degrees. They also stated that a variety of risk factors may result in a higher curve progression. These factors include the following: female gender, age of 10–12 years, absence of menarche, presence of thoracic curves, curve size at presentation &gt;25 degrees, Risser sign of 0-1, and residual growth potential.<ref name="Anwer">Anwer et al., Effects of Exercise on Spinal Deformities and Quality of Life in Patients with Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis, 2015 (Level of evidence: 1A)</ref><ref name="Jacques">Jacques H. et al., The Risser Classification: A Classic Tool for the Clinician Treating Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis, Clin Orthop Relat Res, 2012, 470:2335–2338</ref><br><br>  


== Clinically Relevant Anatomy  ==
== Clinically Relevant Anatomy  ==
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<br>Each type shows different characteristics as rate of curve progression, degree and pattern of the three-dimensional deformity. The two major groups of scoliosis are idiopathic scoliosis and non-idiopathic scoliosis. <br><br>  
<br>Each type shows different characteristics as rate of curve progression, degree and pattern of the three-dimensional deformity. The two major groups of scoliosis are idiopathic scoliosis and non-idiopathic scoliosis. <br><br>  


'''<u>Non-idiopathic scoliosis is classified into the following subgroups:</u>'''<br>• <u>Congenital scoliosis:<br></u>Caused by malformation of vertebrae like hemivertebra, unilateral bar or block vertebra. It may not be clinically evident at birth but develops until adolescence. Genes that are associated with vertebral malformation have been identified in several studies, and similar defects have been induced in animal models by hypoxia or toxic agents.<br>• <u>Neuromuscular scoliosis:</u><br>Neuromuscular scoliosis is caused by insufficiency of active stabilizers (including the muscles and tendons surrounding the spinal column like the musculus longus capitis or the musculus longus colli) of the spine like cerebral palsy, spinal muscular atrophy, spina bifida, muscular dystrophies or spinal cord injuries. Surgical treatment of neuromuscular scoliosis is associated with the highest rate of complications compared to other types of scoliosis.<br>• <u>Mesenchymal scoliosis:</u><br>Mesenchymal scoliosis is caused by insufficiency of passive stabilizers (consisting of vertebrae, facet joints, intervertebral discs, spinal ligaments (like ligamentum flavum and ligamentum longitudinale anterius), joint capsules and passive muscle support)of the spine like Marfan’s syndrome, mucopolysaccharidosis, osteogenesis imperfecta, inflammatory diseases or postoperative after thoracic surgery (open heart surgery).
'''<u>Non-idiopathic scoliosis is classified into the following subgroups:</u>'''<br>• <u>Congenital scoliosis:<br></u>Caused by malformation of vertebrae like hemivertebra, unilateral bar or block vertebra. It may not be clinically evident at birth but develops until adolescence. Genes that are associated with vertebral malformation have been identified in several studies, and similar defects have been induced in animal models by hypoxia or toxic agents.<br>• <u>Neuromuscular scoliosis:</u><br>Neuromuscular scoliosis is caused by insufficiency of active stabilizers (including the muscles and tendons surrounding the spinal column like the musculus longus capitis or the musculus longus colli) of the spine like cerebral palsy, spinal muscular atrophy, spina bifida, muscular dystrophies or spinal cord injuries. Surgical treatment of neuromuscular scoliosis is associated with the highest rate of complications compared to other types of scoliosis.<br>• <u>Mesenchymal scoliosis:</u><br>Mesenchymal scoliosis is caused by insufficiency of passive stabilizers (consisting of vertebrae, facet joints, intervertebral discs, spinal ligaments (like ligamentum flavum and ligamentum longitudinale anterius), joint capsules and passive muscle support)of the spine like Marfan’s syndrome, mucopolysaccharidosis, osteogenesis imperfecta, inflammatory diseases or postoperative after thoracic surgery (open heart surgery).  


<br>The prevalence of idiopathic scoliosis is dependent on the curvature of the spine and gender of the patient, and is higher among females, who have been observed to have more severe curvature.  
<br>The prevalence of idiopathic scoliosis is dependent on the curvature of the spine and gender of the patient, and is higher among females, who have been observed to have more severe curvature.  


<u>'''Idiopathic scoliosis is classified into the following subgroups:'''</u><br>• <u>Infantile scoliosis:</u><br>Infantile scoliosis develops at the age of 0–3 years and shows a prevalence of 1&nbsp;%. Mau and McMaster reported about a radical decrease in number of infantile scoliosis in the 1980s, probably related to the recommendation of prone position for the infants. McMaster and Diedrich described that, in contrast to adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS), there is a regression of scoliosis in more than half of the cases. Mehta described the rib–vertebra angle difference and identified that an angle difference of more than 20 indicates a poor prognosis and rapid progression.<br>• <u>Juvenile scoliosis:</u><br>Juvenile scoliosis develops at the age of 4–10 years and comprises 10–15&nbsp;% of all idiopathic scoliosis in children, untreated curves may cause serious cardiopulmonary complications, and curves of 30 and more tend to progress, 95&nbsp;% of these patients need a surgical procedure.<br>• <u>Adolescent scoliosis:</u><br>Adolescent scoliosis develops at the age of 11–18 years and accounts for approximately 90&nbsp;% of cases of idiopathic scoliosis in children. Adult scoliosis (de novo scoliosis in adults): this type of scoliosis has a prevalence of more than 8&nbsp;% in adults over the age of 25 and rises up 68&nbsp;% in the age of over 60 years, caused by degenerative changes in the aging spine.<ref>Markus Rafael Konieczny et al., Epidemiology of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis, J Child Orthop (2013) 7:3–9</ref><br>Anwer et al described a prevalence of 2,5&nbsp;% in the general population with a Cobb angle larger than 10 degrees.<ref name="Anwer" /><br>
<u>'''Idiopathic scoliosis is classified into the following subgroups:'''</u><br>• <u>Infantile scoliosis:</u><br>Infantile scoliosis develops at the age of 0–3 years and shows a prevalence of 1&nbsp;%. Mau and McMaster reported about a radical decrease in number of infantile scoliosis in the 1980s, probably related to the recommendation of prone position for the infants. McMaster and Diedrich described that, in contrast to adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS), there is a regression of scoliosis in more than half of the cases. Mehta described the rib–vertebra angle difference and identified that an angle difference of more than 20 indicates a poor prognosis and rapid progression.<br>• <u>Juvenile scoliosis:</u><br>Juvenile scoliosis develops at the age of 4–10 years and comprises 10–15&nbsp;% of all idiopathic scoliosis in children, untreated curves may cause serious cardiopulmonary complications, and curves of 30 and more tend to progress, 95&nbsp;% of these patients need a surgical procedure.<br>• <u>Adolescent scoliosis:</u><br>Adolescent scoliosis develops at the age of 11–18 years and accounts for approximately 90&nbsp;% of cases of idiopathic scoliosis in children. Adult scoliosis (de novo scoliosis in adults): this type of scoliosis has a prevalence of more than 8&nbsp;% in adults over the age of 25 and rises up 68&nbsp;% in the age of over 60 years, caused by degenerative changes in the aging spine.<ref>Markus Rafael Konieczny et al., Epidemiology of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis, J Child Orthop (2013) 7:3–9</ref><br>Anwer et al described a prevalence of 2,5&nbsp;% in the general population with a Cobb angle larger than 10 degrees.<ref name="Anwer" /><br>  


== Characteristics/Clinical Presentation  ==
== Characteristics/Clinical Presentation  ==
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<u>I. Conservative treatment</u>  
<u>I. Conservative treatment</u>  


With regard to conservative treatment of patients with congenital scoliosis, it should be noted that there are limited data available in the literature. A review (level of evidence 2) concluded that patients with specific types of segmentation failures, like unilateral unsegmented bars, will not benefit from conservative treatment, while the same applies to formation failures with curves of &gt; 20 degrees in infancy. Nevertheless, there are reports that a conservative approach might be beneficial in mild cases with formation failures in the first three years of life. Furthermore, the review concluded that in patients with formation failures further investigation is needed to document where a conservative approach (bracing treatment) would be necessary.&nbsp;In general, most congenital scoliotic curves are not flexible and therefore are resistant to repair with bracing. For this reason, the use of braces mainly aims to prevent the progression of secondary curves that develop above and below the congenital curve, causing imbalance. In these cases, they may be applied until skeletal maturity<ref name="15">Angelos Kaspiris, Theodoros B. Grivas, Hans-Rudolf Weiss and Deborah Turnbull. Surgical and conservative treatment of patients with congenital scoliosis: a search for long-term results. Scoliosis. 2011, Vol. 6, num. 12, pp. 1-17.&amp;amp;amp;amp;nbsp;Level of evidence = 2</ref>.  
With regard to conservative treatment of patients with congenital scoliosis, it should be noted that there are limited data available in the literature. A review (level of evidence 2) concluded that patients with specific types of segmentation failures, like unilateral unsegmented bars, will not benefit from conservative treatment, while the same applies to formation failures with curves of &gt; 20 degrees in infancy. Nevertheless, there are reports that a conservative approach might be beneficial in mild cases with formation failures in the first three years of life. Furthermore, the review concluded that in patients with formation failures further investigation is needed to document where a conservative approach (bracing treatment) would be necessary.&nbsp;In general, most congenital scoliotic curves are not flexible and therefore are resistant to repair with bracing. For this reason, the use of braces mainly aims to prevent the progression of secondary curves that develop above and below the congenital curve, causing imbalance. In these cases, they may be applied until skeletal maturity<ref name="15">Angelos Kaspiris, Theodoros B. Grivas, Hans-Rudolf Weiss and Deborah Turnbull. Surgical and conservative treatment of patients with congenital scoliosis: a search for long-term results. Scoliosis. 2011, Vol. 6, num. 12, pp. 1-17.&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;nbsp;Level of evidence = 2</ref>.  


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But there are also other exercises that have been found effective. Scientific Exercises Approach to Scoliosis (SEAS) exercises is for example been found effective in reducing the rate of progression of scoliosis compared with usual care and help to avoid brace prescription. Evidence also supports that SEAS is found to be effective in reducing spinal deformaties compared with control groups. (LoE: 1B)&nbsp;<ref name="7" />&nbsp;<ref name="8">Negrini S, Negrini A, et al., A controlled prospective study on the efficacy of SEAS.02 exercises in preventing progression and bracing in mild idiopathic scoliosis, Stud Health Technol Inform,2006.Level of evidence: 1B</ref>&nbsp;<ref name="9">Alessandra Negrini, Silvana Parzini, et al., Adult scoliosis can be reduced through specific SEAS exercises: a case report, scoliosis, 2008. Level of evidence: 4</ref>  
But there are also other exercises that have been found effective. Scientific Exercises Approach to Scoliosis (SEAS) exercises is for example been found effective in reducing the rate of progression of scoliosis compared with usual care and help to avoid brace prescription. Evidence also supports that SEAS is found to be effective in reducing spinal deformaties compared with control groups. (LoE: 1B)&nbsp;<ref name="7" />&nbsp;<ref name="8">Negrini S, Negrini A, et al., A controlled prospective study on the efficacy of SEAS.02 exercises in preventing progression and bracing in mild idiopathic scoliosis, Stud Health Technol Inform,2006.Level of evidence: 1B</ref>&nbsp;<ref name="9">Alessandra Negrini, Silvana Parzini, et al., Adult scoliosis can be reduced through specific SEAS exercises: a case report, scoliosis, 2008. Level of evidence: 4</ref>  


<br>The SEAS exercises are, according to the Italian Scientific Spine Institute (ISICO), based on a specific form of Active Self-correction (ASC), that is taught individually to each single patient. This is to achieve the maximum possible correction. ASC is then associated with stabilising exercises that include neuromotor control, proprioceptive training and balance. The exercises are also incorporated into their daily living activities. SEAS approach does also involve the parents. They are getting together with the patiënt a cognitive-behavioral approach to maximize compliance to treatment. (LoE: 1B)<ref name="7" /><ref name="10">SOSORT guidelines read on the website of SOSORT, editor is Jean Claude de Mauroy: http://www.sosort2012.org/index.php?option=com_content&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;view=article&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;Itemid=149&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;: consulted on 10/11/2012</ref><br>  
<br>The SEAS exercises are, according to the Italian Scientific Spine Institute (ISICO), based on a specific form of Active Self-correction (ASC), that is taught individually to each single patient. This is to achieve the maximum possible correction. ASC is then associated with stabilising exercises that include neuromotor control, proprioceptive training and balance. The exercises are also incorporated into their daily living activities. SEAS approach does also involve the parents. They are getting together with the patiënt a cognitive-behavioral approach to maximize compliance to treatment. (LoE: 1B)<ref name="7" /><ref name="10">SOSORT guidelines read on the website of SOSORT, editor is Jean Claude de Mauroy: http://www.sosort2012.org/index.php?option=com_content&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;view=article&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;Itemid=149&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;: consulted on 10/11/2012</ref><br>  


We mentioned earlier that one of the aims is respiratory capacity/education. The severity of the curvature can cause a pressure on airways and lungs. The patient can experience trouble while breathing. Therefore the therapist must insert breathing exercises (http://www.physio-pedia.com/Respiratory_Muscle_Training) combined with the thoracic active mobilisations to complete his/her management. &nbsp;If the risk of pulmonary dysfunction (as a result of the pressure of the spine) is too high, surgery is indicated.<ref name="11" /><ref name="12">M. Takaso, T. Nakazawa, Surgical management of severe scoliosis with high risk pulmonary dysfunction in Duchenne muscular dystrophy: patient function, quality of life and satisfaction, Int Orthop. 2010 June. Level of evidence 4</ref><br>  
We mentioned earlier that one of the aims is respiratory capacity/education. The severity of the curvature can cause a pressure on airways and lungs. The patient can experience trouble while breathing. Therefore the therapist must insert breathing exercises (http://www.physio-pedia.com/Respiratory_Muscle_Training) combined with the thoracic active mobilisations to complete his/her management. &nbsp;If the risk of pulmonary dysfunction (as a result of the pressure of the spine) is too high, surgery is indicated.<ref name="11" /><ref name="12">M. Takaso, T. Nakazawa, Surgical management of severe scoliosis with high risk pulmonary dysfunction in Duchenne muscular dystrophy: patient function, quality of life and satisfaction, Int Orthop. 2010 June. Level of evidence 4</ref><br>  
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== Prognosis  ==
== Prognosis  ==
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<references /> <br>  
<references /> <br>  


[[Category:Condition]] [[Category:Lumbar_Conditions]] [[Category:Lumbar]] [[Category:Spine]] [[Category:Pilates]] [[Category:Paediatrics]] [[Category:Musculoskeletal/Orthopaedics|Orthopaedics]]
[[Category:Condition]][[Category:Lumbar_Conditions]][[Category:Lumbar]][[Category:Spine]][[Category:Pilates]][[Category:Paediatrics]][[Category:Musculoskeletal/Orthopaedics|Orthopaedics]][[Category:Cerebral_Palsy]]

Revision as of 18:45, 6 July 2016

Search Strategy[edit | edit source]

Keywords: Scoliosis, physical therapy, prevalence, rehabilitation, physiotherapy,…
Databases: PubMed, Pedro, Web of Knowledge, Cochrane Library, Library of the VUB, Medscape, ...

Definition/Description[edit | edit source]

Scoliosis is a three-dimensional deformative abnormality of the spine. Scoliosis is defined by the Cobb angle of spine curvature in the coronal plane, and is often accompanied by vertebral rotation in the transverse plane and hypokyphosis in the sagittal plane. These abnormalities in the spine, costal-vertebral joints, and the rib cage produce a ‘convex’ and ‘concave’ hemithorax. The rotation component starts when the scoliosis becomes more pronounced. This is called a torsion-scoliosis, causing a gibbus.


Scoliosis can be present from birth. It is then called congenital scoliosis. Congenital scoliosis represents a spinal malformation due to defects of formation, segmentation or mixed ones. It is characterised by a longitudinal and rotational imbalance.[1]


Other sorts of scoliosis can be developed during growth, any causes for this are still not found. We then speak of Weiss Scoliosis 2011, 6:17. Approximately 85% of cases are idiopathic. Based on the age of presentation, scoliosis is further categorised as infantile, juvenile or adolescent idiopathic. Adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) has the highest prevalence of the three categories. This type of scoliosis is present at age ten and lasts till the end of growth. Its prevalence is dependent on the curvature of the spine and gender of the patient.[2] Epidemiological studies have demonstrated that IS is significantly more frequent in girls than boys, reaching a ratio of 4:1. Anwer et al. described a prevalence of 2,5% with a Cobb angle larger then 10 degrees. They also stated that a variety of risk factors may result in a higher curve progression. These factors include the following: female gender, age of 10–12 years, absence of menarche, presence of thoracic curves, curve size at presentation >25 degrees, Risser sign of 0-1, and residual growth potential.[3][4]

Clinically Relevant Anatomy[edit | edit source]

The vertebral columm normally consists of 24 separate bony vertebrae, together with 5 fused vertebrae that form the sacrum, and usually 4 fused vertebrae that form the coccyx. These 24 separate vertebrae can be divided in three categories: 7 cervical vertebrae, 12 thoracic vertebrae and 5 lumbar vertebrae. Variations can occur such as Hemivertebrae and fused vertebrae. The anterior pillar of the spine has weight-bearing and shock-absorbing functions. There is an intervertebral disc between adjacent vertebral bodies; with the exception of the first and second cervical vertebrae. Each disc consists of a nucleus pulposis surrounded by an annulus fibrosis. The posterior pillar comprises the apophyseal joints that are formed by the articular facets on the articular processes.


When viewed from the side, the vertebral column displays five curves in the upright posture:[5]
Cervical curves
There are two normally occurring curves in the cervical spine: the upper cervical curve extending from the occiput to the axis, and the longer lordotic curve of the lower cervical spine extending from the axis to the second thoracic vertebrae. The lower cervical curve is convex forwards and is the reverse of the upper cervical curve.
Thoracic curve
This curve is concave forwards, extending from T2 to T12. The concavity is due to greater depth of the posterior parts of the vertebral bodies in this region. In the upper part there is often a slight lateral curve with the convexity directed to either the right or left.
Lumbar curve
The lumbar curve is convex forwards and extends from T2 to the lumbosacral junction.
Sacral curve
The curve extends from the lumbosacral junction to the coccyx. Its anterior concavity faces downwards and forwards.

Epidemiology /Etiology[edit | edit source]

Scoliosis is the most common spinal disorder in children and adolescents. A scoliosis is characterized by a side-to-side curvature of the spine >10°, usually combined with a rotation of the vertebrae and most often a reduced kyphosis in thoracic curves. Scoliosis may be structural or non-structural. Non-structural scoliosis can be corrected, they occur due to posture or compensation of the spine. Structural scoliosis are deviations that cannot or just partially be corrected. You can distinguish the structural from the non-structural scoliosis with the Adam Forward Bent Test (see below). Scoliosis patients are classified in different types according to age of onset, etiology, severity and type of curve.


Each type shows different characteristics as rate of curve progression, degree and pattern of the three-dimensional deformity. The two major groups of scoliosis are idiopathic scoliosis and non-idiopathic scoliosis.

Non-idiopathic scoliosis is classified into the following subgroups:
Congenital scoliosis:
Caused by malformation of vertebrae like hemivertebra, unilateral bar or block vertebra. It may not be clinically evident at birth but develops until adolescence. Genes that are associated with vertebral malformation have been identified in several studies, and similar defects have been induced in animal models by hypoxia or toxic agents.
Neuromuscular scoliosis:
Neuromuscular scoliosis is caused by insufficiency of active stabilizers (including the muscles and tendons surrounding the spinal column like the musculus longus capitis or the musculus longus colli) of the spine like cerebral palsy, spinal muscular atrophy, spina bifida, muscular dystrophies or spinal cord injuries. Surgical treatment of neuromuscular scoliosis is associated with the highest rate of complications compared to other types of scoliosis.
Mesenchymal scoliosis:
Mesenchymal scoliosis is caused by insufficiency of passive stabilizers (consisting of vertebrae, facet joints, intervertebral discs, spinal ligaments (like ligamentum flavum and ligamentum longitudinale anterius), joint capsules and passive muscle support)of the spine like Marfan’s syndrome, mucopolysaccharidosis, osteogenesis imperfecta, inflammatory diseases or postoperative after thoracic surgery (open heart surgery).


The prevalence of idiopathic scoliosis is dependent on the curvature of the spine and gender of the patient, and is higher among females, who have been observed to have more severe curvature.

Idiopathic scoliosis is classified into the following subgroups:
Infantile scoliosis:
Infantile scoliosis develops at the age of 0–3 years and shows a prevalence of 1 %. Mau and McMaster reported about a radical decrease in number of infantile scoliosis in the 1980s, probably related to the recommendation of prone position for the infants. McMaster and Diedrich described that, in contrast to adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS), there is a regression of scoliosis in more than half of the cases. Mehta described the rib–vertebra angle difference and identified that an angle difference of more than 20 indicates a poor prognosis and rapid progression.
Juvenile scoliosis:
Juvenile scoliosis develops at the age of 4–10 years and comprises 10–15 % of all idiopathic scoliosis in children, untreated curves may cause serious cardiopulmonary complications, and curves of 30 and more tend to progress, 95 % of these patients need a surgical procedure.
Adolescent scoliosis:
Adolescent scoliosis develops at the age of 11–18 years and accounts for approximately 90 % of cases of idiopathic scoliosis in children. Adult scoliosis (de novo scoliosis in adults): this type of scoliosis has a prevalence of more than 8 % in adults over the age of 25 and rises up 68 % in the age of over 60 years, caused by degenerative changes in the aging spine.[6]
Anwer et al described a prevalence of 2,5 % in the general population with a Cobb angle larger than 10 degrees.[3]

Characteristics/Clinical Presentation[edit | edit source]

Symptoms for scoliosis can be:
- Sideways curvature of the spine
- Sideways body posture
- One shoulder raised higher than the other
- Clothes not hanging properly
- Local muscular aches
- Local ligament pain

Scoliosis-01.jpg

Decreasing pulmonary function is a major concern in progressive severe scoliosis. The progression of scoliosis leads to thoracic cage deformity and concomitant pulmonary compromise. Based on the results of the present study, impairment of function was seen in more severe cases of spinal deformity, proximally-located curvature and older patients.[2]

Diagnostic Procedures[edit | edit source]

Thorax deformity in the anterior-posterior and medial—lateral planes is primarily assessed for clinical purposes using planar radiographs. CT imaging, the gold standard for transverse plane thorax deformity characterization, is also used to complement AP and lateral radiographs.[7]
• The categories of thorax deformity are:

  1. Anterior chest angulation
  2. Area enclosed by rib cage
  3. Coronal asymmetry
  4. Hemithorax depth asymmetry
  5. Hemithorax width asymmetry
  6. Posterior rib asymmetry
  7. Sagittal depth
  8. Sternum deviation

Scoliosis-induced lateral spine curvature in the coronal plane and vertebral rotation are commonly used for clinical assessment and their inter-relationship has been widely documented. Furthermore, additional evidence supports the subsequent contribution of spine distortion towards progression of thoracic cage deformity.[7]

Surface electromyography (EMG) examination, magnetic resonance imaging or static and dynamic postural evaluation can be used for a very precise diagnosis.[8]

  • The static postural evaluation serves to measure body sway and changes of the projection of the centre of gravity in a free standing position. It is used to diagnose disturbances of transfer of the force of gravity in patients with IS. The static posture evaluation uses a platform to record ground reaction forces in a static standing position.
  • The dynamic posture evaluation uses a platform to record ground reaction forces as well as body sway during walking and the centre of gravity during jumps and different activities.
  • The Superficial EMG, is helpful in examining spinal muscle work.


Outcome Measures[edit | edit source]

Scoliosis is a condition that can arise from various etiologies. Evaluation of scoliosis treatment should include the patient’s perspective, which can be obtained with the use of patient-reported outcome measures.


Generic instruments to assess health-related quality of life (HRQL) can been used, such as the SF-36 questionnaire and the EuroQol5D instrument.


On the other hand it is recommended to use disease-specific instruments for this purpose, such as the SRS-22 Patient Questionnaire and the quality of life profile for spinal deformities (QLPSD).


The perception of the trunk deformity and body image according to the patient can assed by several instruments, such as the Walter-Reed Visual Assessment Scale (WRVAS), the Spinal Appearance Questionnaire (SAQ), and the Trunk Appearance Perception Scale (TAPS).


The impacts of brace use can be measured with specific scales:
• the Bad Sobernheim Stress Questionnaire (BSSQ)
• the Brace Questionnaire (BrQ)


It is important to know that the available instruments to evaluate the treatment for non-idiopathic scoliosis have not been sufficiently validated and analysed.[9]

Examination[edit | edit source]

The aim of the functional examination is to distinguish between faulty posture and actual idiopathic scoliosis.
Examination of the active movements of the spine in the cervical, thoracic and lumbar segment:

  • Flexion
  • Extension
  • Lateral flexion

The Adam forward bend test (http://www.physio-pedia.com/Adam's_forward_bend_test) can be used to make a distinction between structural scoliosis or non-structural scoliosis of the cervical to lumbar spine. The test can be performed in the standing and sitting position.

  • In standing position, the examined person is asked to bend forward looking down, keeping the feet together, the knees straightened, shoulders loose and hands positioned in front of knees or shins with elbows straight and palms opposed. If the scoliosis is present in both standing as bending position, the scoliosis is structural. If the scoliosis is present in standing position but disappears when the examined person is bended forward, the scoliosis is not structural.
  • In the sitting position, the examined person is seated on a chair with a height of 40 cm. The examined person is asked to bend forward and place his head between the knees, with his shoulders loose, elbows straight and hands positioned between the knees.


The position of spinal processes and presence of a costal hump are evaluated.


The Cobb angle is a standard measurement to determine and track the progression of scoliosis (http://www.physio-pedia.com/Cobb's_angle ):

  • Locate the most tilted vertebra at the top of the curve and draw a parallel line to the superior vertebral end plate [Insert picture showing vertebral endplates].
  • Locate the most tilted vertebra at the bottom of the curve and draw a parallel line to the inferior vertebral end plate.
  • Erect intersecting perpendicular lines from the two parallel lines.
  • The angle formed between the two parallel lines is the Cobb angle.


The scoliometer is an inclinometer designed to measure trunk asymmetry, or axial trunk rotation. It’s used at three areas:

  • Upper thoracic (T3-T4)
  • Main thoracic (T5-T12)
  • Thoraco-lumbar area (T12-L1 or L2-L3)


If the measurement is equal to 0°, there is a symmetry at the particular level of the trunk. An asymmetry at the particular level of the trunk is found, if the scoliometer measurement is equal to any other value.[10]

Pulmonary function testing is useful in the preoperative evaluation of patients.[2]
Spyrometrie

  • FVC gives an assessment of lung volume
  • FEV1 provides an assessment of flow function.


Medical Management
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Management of congenital scoliosis

Patients with early-onset scoliosis, defined as a lateral curvature of the spine under the age of 10 years, are offered surgical treatment when the major curvature remains progressive despite conservative treatment (Cobbs angle 50 degrees or more). Spinal fusion is not recommended in this age group, as it prevents spinal growth and pulmonary development.[11]

I. Conservative treatment

With regard to conservative treatment of patients with congenital scoliosis, it should be noted that there are limited data available in the literature. A review (level of evidence 2) concluded that patients with specific types of segmentation failures, like unilateral unsegmented bars, will not benefit from conservative treatment, while the same applies to formation failures with curves of > 20 degrees in infancy. Nevertheless, there are reports that a conservative approach might be beneficial in mild cases with formation failures in the first three years of life. Furthermore, the review concluded that in patients with formation failures further investigation is needed to document where a conservative approach (bracing treatment) would be necessary. In general, most congenital scoliotic curves are not flexible and therefore are resistant to repair with bracing. For this reason, the use of braces mainly aims to prevent the progression of secondary curves that develop above and below the congenital curve, causing imbalance. In these cases, they may be applied until skeletal maturityCite error: Invalid <ref> tag; name cannot be a simple integer. Use a descriptive title.


II. Surgical treatment
Spinal surgery in patients with congenital scoliosis is regarded as a safe procedure and many authors claim that surgery should be performed as early as possible to prevent the development of severe local deformities and secondary structural deformities that would require more extensive fusion later. Most of the time Surgery is performed during adolescence, but newer techniques allow good correction to be accomplished into early adulthood. The goals for surgical treatment are to prevent progression and to improve spinal alignment and balance. The hips and shoulders should be level, and the head over the sacrum while maintaining sagittal alignment. The spine is corrected with a combination of rods, hooks, screws and wires while being fused by bone graft – either from the patient, a cadaver or artificially. On the other hand, early and late complications are also described in literature, concerning not only intraoperative and immediate postoperative problems, but also the safety and efficacy of the spinal instrumentation and the possibility of developing neurological disorders and the long-term effect these may have on both lung function and the quality of life. A review (2011, level of evidence 2) concluded that patients with segmentation failures should be treated surgically early, according to the rate of deformity formation and certainly before the pubertal growth spurt to try to avoid cor-pulmonale, even though there is lack of evidence for that in the long-termCite error: Invalid <ref> tag; name cannot be a simple integer. Use a descriptive title.


A magnetically controlled growing rod (MCGR) is a novel technology that enables non-invasive spinal lengthening in an awake patient in an out-patient setting. The indications for MCGR are identical to those of traditional growing rods, but MCGR has advantages of obviating the need for repeated surgical distractions.[11]

Physical Therapy Management
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Physical therapy and bracing are used to treat milder forms of scoliosis to maintain cosmesis and avoid surgery (LoE: 1A).[7]Scoliosis is not just a lateral curvature of the spine, it’s a three dimensional condition. To manage scoliosis, we need to work in three planes: the sagittal, frontal and transverse. Different methods have already been studied. (LoE: 5)Cite error: Invalid <ref> tag; name cannot be a simple integer. Use a descriptive title
The conservative therapy consists of: physical exercises, bracing, manipulation, electrical stimulation and insoles. There is still discussion about the fact that conservative therapy is effective or not. Some therapists follow the ‘wait and see’ method. This means that at one moment; the Cobb degree threshold will be achieved. Then, the only possibility is a spinal surgery. (LoE: 1A)Cite error: Invalid <ref> tag; name cannot be a simple integer. Use a descriptive title


The physical therapist has three important tasks: to inform, advice and instruct.
For the treatment of scoliosis, it’s not only important to do the correct exercises but the physical therapist also needs to inform the patient about his/her situation (if the patient is still a child, then he needs to inform the parents too). An educational program makes sure that the therapy accuracy from the patient improves. (LoE: 5) Cite error: Invalid <ref> tag; name cannot be a simple integer. Use a descriptive title

Some physical therapists recommend a brace to prevent the worsening of the scoliosis. An often used brace is the Milwaukee brace. Nevertheless the evidence for bracing is controversial. Maruyama T., Nakao Y. and Takeshita T. studied the effect of bracing in a review (2011). They compared brace treatment with no-treatment, other conservative treatments or surgery. The analyzed outcome measures were the radiological progression of the curve, surgery and quality of life. Results demonstrate that brace treatment is better than no-treatment (observation) or electrical stimulation. There is also no negative influence on the quality of life of patients with an idiopathic scoliosis. We can conclude that bracing is recommended as a treatment for female patients with a Cobb angle of 25-35°. The evidence level of some studies in the review was limited, so further research is necessary. (LoE 3A)Cite error: Invalid <ref> tag; name cannot be a simple integer. Use a descriptive title

In the literature there is evidence that exercises have beneficial effects on patients with idiopathic scoliosis. (LoE: 1B, 2C)Cite error: Invalid <ref> tag; name cannot be a simple integer. Use a descriptive title Cite error: Invalid <ref> tag; name cannot be a simple integer. Use a descriptive title

The aims of the physical therapy consist of: (LoE: 1B, 2C, 3A)Cite error: Invalid <ref> tag; name cannot be a simple integer. Use a descriptive title[Cite error: Invalid <ref> tag; name cannot be a simple integer. Use a descriptive titleCite error: Invalid <ref> tag; name cannot be a simple integer. Use a descriptive title

• Autocorrection 3D
• Coordination
• Equilibrium
• Ergonomy
• Muscular endurance/ strength
• Neuromotorial control of the spine
• Increase of ROM
• Respiratory capacity/ education
• Side-shift
• Stabilisation

In the literature there are different exercise therapies.


An important one is the conservative three-dimensional Schroth method consisting of curve-specific exercises and corrective breathing techniques. The purpose of these exercises is to derotate, deflex and to correct the spine in the sagittal plane while elongating the spine.Cite error: Invalid <ref> tag; name cannot be a simple integer. Use a descriptive title

 
Foto 1.jpg

The elevation of both arms leads to an increase of the flatback deformity.

Foto 2.jpg

Patient with right thoracic scoliosis (functional 3-curve pattern as seen on the left) performing the ‚Door handle exercise' according to the new ‚Power Schroth' principles (right). The corrected head alignment is not yet achieved but correction of the sagittal profil is already visible.

Foto 3.jpg

Patient with right thoracic scoliosis (functional 3-curve pattern as seen on the left) performing the exercise ‚Frog at the pond' according to the new ‚Power Schroth' principles (right). The corrected head alignment is not yet achieved but correction of the sagittal profile is already visible.

The patient needs to be focused about re-establishing spinal symmetry. The key to a successful therapy is to work consistently to correct the spine.

Another – difficult- part of the therapy is to learn to shorten the muscles on the convex side of the spine and lengthen the muscles on the concave side of the side. This because the muscles become imbalanced on opposite sides. (LoE: 5).[12]


The exercise position approaches the functional/structural threshold. Schroth therapy takes advantage of the overcorrected positions. Basic corrections are reviewed by using mirrors in front and at the back of the patient. This posture requires concentration and coordination, applying the correct breathing, and well-adapted muscle length and tension. (LoE: 2B)Cite error: Invalid <ref> tag; name cannot be a simple integer. Use a descriptive title

But there are also other exercises that have been found effective. Scientific Exercises Approach to Scoliosis (SEAS) exercises is for example been found effective in reducing the rate of progression of scoliosis compared with usual care and help to avoid brace prescription. Evidence also supports that SEAS is found to be effective in reducing spinal deformaties compared with control groups. (LoE: 1B) Cite error: Invalid <ref> tag; name cannot be a simple integer. Use a descriptive title Cite error: Invalid <ref> tag; name cannot be a simple integer. Use a descriptive title Cite error: Invalid <ref> tag; name cannot be a simple integer. Use a descriptive title


The SEAS exercises are, according to the Italian Scientific Spine Institute (ISICO), based on a specific form of Active Self-correction (ASC), that is taught individually to each single patient. This is to achieve the maximum possible correction. ASC is then associated with stabilising exercises that include neuromotor control, proprioceptive training and balance. The exercises are also incorporated into their daily living activities. SEAS approach does also involve the parents. They are getting together with the patiënt a cognitive-behavioral approach to maximize compliance to treatment. (LoE: 1B)Cite error: Invalid <ref> tag; name cannot be a simple integer. Use a descriptive titleCite error: Invalid <ref> tag; name cannot be a simple integer. Use a descriptive title

We mentioned earlier that one of the aims is respiratory capacity/education. The severity of the curvature can cause a pressure on airways and lungs. The patient can experience trouble while breathing. Therefore the therapist must insert breathing exercises (http://www.physio-pedia.com/Respiratory_Muscle_Training) combined with the thoracic active mobilisations to complete his/her management.  If the risk of pulmonary dysfunction (as a result of the pressure of the spine) is too high, surgery is indicated.Cite error: Invalid <ref> tag; name cannot be a simple integer. Use a descriptive titleCite error: Invalid <ref> tag; name cannot be a simple integer. Use a descriptive title

Solache-Carranco and M.G. Sánchez-Bringas (2011) studied the effectiveness of a respiratory rehabilitation program in children with scoliosis. This are the techniques that they used:
- Respiratory education techniques (abdominal-diaphragmatic ventilation, thoracic mobilisation, ventilation at rest and during activities of daily living). This for mobilisation and prevention of stiffness of chest and skeletal muscles.
- Postural drainage and vibration to evacuate mucus and decrease the resistance of the airways.
- Relaxation techniques to make sure that the patients would have better control of respiration (to counteract dyspnea).
They found that the respiratory rehabilitation had a positive effect on increasing pulmonary function of children with scoliosis. (LoE: 3B)Cite error: Invalid <ref> tag; name cannot be a simple integer. Use a descriptive title

Anwer et al. reported in a systematic review (2015) that evidence, of moderate-quality, suggest that an exercise program is superior to the control intervention. They reported a reduction in the following outcome measures: Cobb angle, angle of trunk rotation, thoracic kyphosis angle and lumber lordosis angle and improving the quality of life in patients with AIS. Evidence of lower quality, low-quality, suggested that an exercise program is superior to controls in reducing average lateral deviation in patients with AIS. (LoE: 1A).[3]


Management of non–structural scoliosis (LoE: 1B)Cite error: Invalid <ref> tag; name cannot be a simple integer. Use a descriptive title

Pilates: This intervention was divided in three parts:


1. Preparation (warming up + stretch)
Warming –up consisted of eight minutes walking on a treadmill or an elliptical machine.
After the warming –up each patient had to do some stretching exercises:

- Spine forward stretching:

  • The patient sits on the floor with a straight back and the legs stretched. The patient has to bring her trunk forwards
  • Goal: Stretching the posterior muscle chain and mobilizing the vertebral spine

- Upper rolling

  • The patient lies supine with the arms besides the body. The patient has to raise both legs till the toes touches the floor. Than this person has to unroll her spine slowly (vertebra by vertebra)
  • Goal: stretching the posterior chain, mobilizing the spine and strengthen the abdomen

- Child position

  • The patient sits in a four support position and has to stretch her spine, her arms are stretched and she has to push her hands against the floor. Then she has to lower her spine.
  • Goal: Stretching the thoracic paravertebral, lumbar and gluteal regions and mobilizing the vertebral spine

            1-s2.0-S1360859211000672-gr1.jpg

- Forward leg pull

  • The patient sits in a four support position. Then she has to raise the right arm and leg while the spine stays aligned. Than the same exercise but change arm and leg.
  • Goal: Stretching the concavity of the vertebral spine.


2. Specific exercises:
For these exercise they made use of Swiss balls, FlexBall Quarks,.. It’s important that the patients learn to breathe right during exercise.
- Hip movements with a large ball (65 cm diameter)

  • Goal: Strengthening the gluteal muscles and developing the equilibrium

- Inverted abdominal skills with a ball (55 cm diameter)

  • Goal: Strengthening the infraabdominal region and the ischiotibial muscles.

Rising into a seated position:

  • Goal: Strengthening the M. rectus abdominis

- Lateral spine movement on a step chair with a spring of 0.1410 kgf positioned in the rings to provide major resistance

  • Goal: Stretching the lateral muscle chain according to the direction of convexity of the scoliosis

             1-s2.0-S1360859211000672-gr2.jpg


- Lateral spine movement:

  • Goal: Stretching the lateral muscle chain according to the direction of convexity of the scoliosis

            1-s2.0-S1360859211000672-gr3.jpg


- Flexibility on the step chair with a spring of 0,1410 kgf positioned in the rings to provide major resistance:

  • Goal: Mobilize the spine and stretching the paravertebral thorax and lumbar muscles


3. Returning to a relaxed position (relaxation) :
It consist out three movements, the patient has to repeat each exercise three times for five minutes.
All exercises has to be performed rapidly. The purpose of these exercises are metabolic recovery and relaxation of the used muscles.

            1-s2.0-S1360859211000672-gr4.jpg  .



Prognosis[edit | edit source]

Surgery

The outcome needs to be age matched since the demands of daily life, professional performance, and leisure activities vary substantially in the different age groups. Most of the patients who are still professionally active do not return to their previous work if it was a physically demanding job, but almost all of those had already stopped working before the surgery, because of pain limitations. When analyzed, regarding their overall daily activity by different questionnaires, most of these patients irrespective of age have improved in almost all categories of quality of life, and the use of regular pain medication is reduced substantially in more than 70% of these patients. (LoE: 3B)Cite error: Invalid <ref> tag; name cannot be a simple integer. Use a descriptive title

However for the elderly the outcome is less positive because of the age. The major problem of these patients after surgery, once surgical complications and implant failures have not occurred, is the residual back pain mostly as an expression of muscular spasms and pain due to unbalanced or chronic contractures of the paravertebral muscles. (LoE: 3B)Cite error: Invalid <ref> tag; name cannot be a simple integer. Use a descriptive title


Bracing

Whether brace treatment for scoliosis is successful is often described using the curve progression of more than 5° before skeletal maturity as a benchmark for bracing failure rather than spine surgery (LoE: 1A)Cite error: Invalid <ref> tag; name cannot be a simple integer. Use a descriptive title. Some use 10° of curve progression or preventing the curve from reaching 45° at skeletal maturity (LoE: 1A)Cite error: Invalid <ref> tag; name cannot be a simple integer. Use a descriptive title. 

The outcome data should be determined from the percentage of patients with: less than 5° or greater than 6° of progression at maturity, curves exceeding 45° at maturity, and progression resulting in the recommendation for surgery. Bracing studies should have a minimum of 2 years follow up beyond skeletal maturity. The first study to use these criteria determined a brace should prevent progression in 70% of patients to be considered effective]. Regardless of the recommended standardized parameters, the goal of bracing idiopathic curves remains consistent: control the curve, prevent progression, and avoid surgical intervention (LoE: 1B)Cite error: Invalid <ref> tag; name cannot be a simple integer. Use a descriptive title.

Key Evidence[edit | edit source]

Jonathan A. et al., A comprehensive review of thoracic deformity parameters in scoliosis, Eur Spine J (2014) 23:2594–2602 (Level 1A)

Resources[edit | edit source]

Clinical Bottom Line[edit | edit source]

In conclusion it’s important to make a good diagnosis about the kind of scoliosis and the cause of the scoliosis. Management interventions should be weighed with the choices and complaints of the patient and the kind of scoliosis the patient is suffering from.
It’s important to note that not all patients with scoliosis are actually suffering from this spine deformation.
Every patient is different and deserves attention to deploy the appropriate treatment.

Recent Related Research (from Pubmed)[edit | edit source]

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References[edit | edit source]

  1. Burnei et al., J Med Life. 2015 Jul-Sep; 8(3): 388–397.Congenital scoliosis: an up-to-date, J Med Life. 2015 Jul-Sep; 8(3): 388–397. (Level of Evidence 4)
  2. 2.0 2.1 2.2 Joehaimey Johari et al., Relationship between pulmonary function and degree of spinal deformity, location of apical vertebrae and age among adolescent idiopathic scoliosis patients, Singapore Med J 2016; 57(1): 33-38 (Level of Evidence 3)
  3. 3.0 3.1 3.2 Anwer et al., Effects of Exercise on Spinal Deformities and Quality of Life in Patients with Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis, 2015 (Level of evidence: 1A)
  4. Jacques H. et al., The Risser Classification: A Classic Tool for the Clinician Treating Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis, Clin Orthop Relat Res, 2012, 470:2335–2338
  5. Alison Middleditch et al., Functional Anatomy of the Spine 2005 2-6p.
  6. Markus Rafael Konieczny et al., Epidemiology of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis, J Child Orthop (2013) 7:3–9
  7. 7.0 7.1 7.2 Jonathan A. et al., A comprehensive review of thoracic deformity parameters in scoliosis, Eur Spine J (2014) 23:2594–2602 (Level of Evidence 1A)
  8. Ireneusz M. Kowalski et al., Early detection of idiopathic scoliosis – analysis of three screening models, Arch Med Sci 2015; 11, 5: 1058–1064
  9. Juan Bago´ et al., Outcome instruments to assess scoliosis surgery, Eur Spine J (2013) 22 (Suppl 2):S195–S202
  10. Petros Patias, Theodoros B Grivas, Angelos Kaspiris, Costas Aggouris and Evangelos Drakoutos, ‘A review of the trunk surface metrics used as Scoliosis and other deformities evaluation indices.’, Scoliosis, 2010 Level of evidence: 1
  11. 11.0 11.1 Kenny Kwan, Editorial: Advances in the treatment of early onset scoliosis?, Journal of Orthopaedic Surgery 2015;23(3):277
  12. Scoliosis 3DC- Schroth Method Exercise. Is it Scoliosis? 17 November 2011 Level of evidence: 5