The most common type of scoliosis is idiopathic scoliosis, which affects approximately 80–90% of all people with scoliosis. The etiology of scoliosis is unknown and is most likely multifactorial. Idiopathic scoliosis is classified according to the patient’s age at the time of diagnosis. Based on the understanding that the three periods of accelerated growth correspond to the phases with the highest risk of scoliosis progression, the condition is divided into three types: infantile, juvenile, and adolescent scoliosis.
Adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) is a structural, lateral, rotated curvature of the spine that occurs in otherwise healthy children aged 9 years and older, or around puberty. The clinical presentation of patients is usually assessed using Adam’s forward bend test and a scoliometer, but the diagnosis is not definitive without radiographic imaging and measurement of the Cobb angle.
The most commonly reported long-term consequences of untreated AIS are curve progression, back pain, cardiopulmonary problems, and psychosocial effects. These consequences do not necessarily occur in every person with scoliosis, especially in children, but some of them may develop over time if scoliosis remains untreated. The degree of curve progression tends to increase throughout life, but the risk of progression varies depending on many factors. Predictive factors for curve progression include maturity, such as age at diagnosis, menstrual status, and remaining skeletal growth, as well as curve magnitude and the position of the curve apex.
There are many types of treatment for AIS. The first is kinesitherapy, which can begin even when scoliosis is still mild. The most popular type of treatment for AIS is Schroth therapy. The main goals of treatment are to slow down or prevent further progression, improve thoracic mobility and respiratory function, and enhance torso symmetry. Brace treatment is also one of the treatment options, depending on the degree of the curve and the patient’s skeletal maturity. Finally, surgical correction of scoliosis is considered as a treatment option in cases of scoliosis over 45 degrees.
Early detection of scoliosis and appropriate treatment have a significant impact on stopping the progression of the scoliotic curve and reducing it. However, adolescent idiopathic scoliosis should not be viewed as a disease. It is a condition of the spine that can be treated and influenced, but it is certainly something that requires attention.
