What are the Causes of Scoliosis?

What are the Causes of Scoliosis?

The causes of scoliosis can be classified into congenital and acquired factors.

1. Congenital Scoliosis:

The underlying cause of congenital scoliosis is incomplete spinal development during fetal growth, and it often occurs in the thoracolumbar or lumbosacral regions. Symptoms of scoliosis in these areas can manifest early and progress rapidly, with noticeable deformities appearing as early as 3 to 4 years old.

2. Acquired Scoliosis:

Acquired scoliosis includes various types such as postural scoliosis, neurogenic scoliosis, thoracic pathologic scoliosis, and nutritional deficiency scoliosis. Postural scoliosis is caused by incorrect posture and is common in school-age children. Neurogenic scoliosis results from muscle tension imbalances caused by conditions like spinal poliomyelitis and neurofibromatosis. Thoracic pathologic scoliosis arises from disruptions to the spinal balance during the developmental phase due to conditions like pyogenic or tuberculous pleurisy in childhood or thoracic surgery. Nutritional deficiency scoliosis is associated with rickets caused by vitamin D deficiency. Additionally, conditions like intervertebral disc protrusion, perinephric inflammation, leg length discrepancy, asymmetric paraspinal muscle strength, fractures, dislocations, and spinal tuberculosis can also lead to scoliosis.

In summary, scoliosis can have both congenital and acquired origins, and understanding the underlying causes is crucial for accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.