Idiopathic Scoliosis

Idiopathic scoliosis is one of three different types of scoliosis that cause the spine to develop an abnormal curve. “Idiopathic” means there is no definite cause. Idiopathic scoliosis is the most common type of scoliosis. It tends to run in families and affects girls eight times as often as it affects boys. In many cases, idiopathic scoliosis is mild and requires no treatment other than close monitoring.

During a child’s growth spurt, the signs of idiopathic scoliosis often become more noticeable. These include:

• Uneven shoulders
• One shoulder blade protruding more than the other
• Ribs more prominent on one side
• Uneven waistline
• Difference in hip height

Idiopathic scoliosis is often first discovered during a pediatric checkup or school screening. This is particularly true in children who wear loose-fitting clothes that might cover up the symptoms. If a pediatrician or school nurse suspects your child has scoliosis, they may recommend an evaluation by a pediatric orthopedist or spinal specialist.

There is no definite cause of idiopathic scoliosis or way to prevent the spine’s tendency to develop a side-to-side curve. Idiopathic scoliosis may run in families, but researchers have not confirmed this.
 

Clinicians who suspect idiopathic scoliosis conduct a detailed medical history and physical exam to confirm the diagnosis. During the physical exam, the doctor may use the Adam's forward bend test to detect abnormal curvature of the spine. For this test, your child bends forward from the waist, hangs their arms loosely in front of them, and reaches for the floor. If your child has scoliosis, one side of their rib cage will be more prominent than the other. The doctor may also order an X-ray, which allows them to see an image of the spine.

Treatment for idiopathic scoliosis depends on a number of factors, including your child’s age, severity of their spinal curve, location of the curve, and the pattern and progression of the curve. In many instances, simple observation is the first form of treatment.

Children with mild scoliosis, a curve of less than 25 degrees, are typically monitored at regular doctor visits to be sure the curve does not get worse.

Children with moderate scoliosis, a curve between 25 to 45 degrees, are typically treated with bracing. The brace keeps the spine in a straighter position as the child grows. This can either partially correct the curve or prevent it from becoming more severe. If the curve gets worse despite bracing, the child will probably need surgery.

Children with severe scoliosis, a curve greater than 45 degrees, usually need surgery. The most common surgical procedure is a spinal fusion. For this procedure, the surgeon uses metal rods, hooks, screws, and wires to correct the spinal curve and secure the spine in a straight position while the fusion heals and becomes solid.

Idiopathic scoliosis is not a life-threatening condition. Most children and adolescents with idiopathic scoliosis can look forward to normal, active lives. Your child’s outlook depends in large part on the nature and severity of their scoliosis as well as their age. Early diagnosis and treatment are important components of minimizing the long-term effects of scoliosis.

The Spine Division at Boston Children’s Hospital is the largest and busiest pediatric spine center in the United States. Our spine specialists see thousands of spine patients and perform hundreds of spine surgeries each year. We treat all types of scoliosis and other spine conditions, from the most common to the most complex.

With early intervention, the majority of our patients are treated successfully with bracing and other non-invasive treatments, including physical therapy and Schroth therapy. The most widely used brace for scoliosis, the Boston Brace, was developed at Boston Children’s more than 40 years ago. While we are proud of this legacy, we work closely with our patients and their families to determine which brace is right for them.

For children who need surgery, our surgical team includes surgeons, anesthesiologists, and nurses with specific skills and expertise in spine surgery. Each member of the team plays a role in ensuring quality and safety before, during, and after surgery.