Many parents, when given a diagnosis of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis, are not only potentially upset and angry, but want a definitive prognosis. For most, a resolution can be many months or even years away.
The condition affects adolescent spines as their growth accelerates, which for girls will usually end by their mid-teens as they stop growing. During this time, the curvature and twisting can simply continue, slow, stop, even potentially reverse or rapidly accelerate to the extent that it impacts lung function and becomes life threatening. Scoliosis can affect just part of the spine or be extensive along its length. No two cases of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis are exactly the same. Both the medical assessment and treatment of scoliosis is highly specialist.
Listen to what Michael Grevitt, a leading spinal consultant, has to say about the consultation process he likes to follow during the initial diagnosis.
If you or anyone you know has been affected by scoliosis visit Scoliosis Association UK or call their helpline on 0208 964 1166 for support and advice.
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