How Can I Tell If My Child Has Scoliosis?

Kayal Pain & Spine Center Can Make Diagnosis, Offer Exceptional Care

Scoliosis is a curvature and rotation of the spine that can lead to serious health problems if left untreated. Roughly 3 million cases are diagnosed each year—with the most common form being idiopathic scoliosis. Idiopathic scoliosis typically presents itself in children between the ages of 10 and 12. It can be hard to detect in the early stages when it rarely causes pain or overt physical changes. As a result, it’s important to have your child screened by your pediatrician, school nurse or other trained health care professional. When scoliosis is diagnosed early, there are more treatment options and the odds are greater to prevent long-lasting problems.

If you suspect or have been told your child has scoliosis, the team at Kayal Pain & Spine Center can provide you with a quick, accurate diagnosis. We are also the skilled, compassionate experts you want on your side as you and your child deal with this condition. We’ll take the time to answer all of your questions, provide your child with exceptional care and help you navigate every challenge. We excel in treatment of all spinal disorders of the neck, upper back and lower back as well as interventional pain management in Westwood and throughout Bergen County.

There Is Nothing You Could Have Done

If your child has scoliosis, the first thing you need to know is that it is not your fault. There is nothing you could have done to prevent it. Currently, there is no known cause or prevention. Parents often ask us if heavy backpacks or poor posture could have caused their children’s scoliosis. Although these things can contribute to other back and spine problems, they have nothing to do with scoliosis. However, there is a genetic link so it’s even more important to have your child screened if scoliosis runs in your family.

So, what should you look out for? Common indications of scoliosis include uneven hips or shoulders. One shoulder might be higher than the other, one hip could stick out more or the ribs on one side of your child’s body may be more visible.

Screenings Are Important

However, subtle changes can be difficult to detect so you should make sure your child is receiving regular checkups that include screenings for scoliosis. If your health care provider is aware of the condition before a growth spurt occurs, he or she can establish a treatment plan to prevent larger curves from forming during growth periods.

Treatments include monitoring children with low-dose radiation X-rays, physical therapy, exercise, posture control, bracing and, in severe cases, surgery. At Kayal Pain & Spine Center, we focus on managing your child’s condition while allowing him or her to enjoy being a kid. In most cases, children with scoliosis can participate in all of the same activities as their friends.

At Kayal Pain & Spine Center, we understand how overwhelming it can be when your child is diagnosed with a health condition. But you and your precious child are in the very best hands with us.

Schedule an Appointment With Kayal Pain & Spine Center

When you need an interventional pain management doctor in Glen Rock or nearby, Kayal Pain & Spine Center will provide you with the exceptional care you deserve. To schedule an appointment, call 844.777.0910 or contact us on the web.