Spinal Deformities

When the body is viewed from behind, a no rmal spine appears straight. However, when a spine with scoliosis is viewed from behind, a lateral or side-to-side curvature may be apparent. This gives the appearance of leaning to one side and should not be confused with poor posture. When the trunk is viewed from the side, the spine will demonstrate normal curves. The upper chest area has a normal roundback, or kyphosis, while in the lower spine there is a swayback, or lordosis. Increased roundback in the chest area is correctly called hyperkyphosis while increased swayback is termed hyperlordosis. Changes from normal on a side view frequently accompany scoliosis changes.Important Pointers

• A lack of calcium will not cause scoliosis.
• Poor posture does not cause scoliosis.
• Carrying a heavy book bag does not cause scoliosis.
• Scoliosis is not usually painful in adolescence, but can become so in adulthood.
• Braces do not make the spine straight.
• Smoking does interfere with bone healing.
• The metal implant (spinal instrumentation) does not activate the metal detectors at airports, does not rust, and is not subject to rejection by the body.
• Surgery does not interfere with normal childbearing.
• Spinal deformities are not contagious.
• At present, there is no known prevention for spinal deformities.