 “Transfemoral amputation” is the medical term for removing the leg from any point higher than the knee joint. Also known as ‘Above-the-knee amputation’. There can be many different reasons for a person to undergo surgery, such as frost-bite, vehicle accident, or Neuroma. Whatever the cause, your surgical site and amputated limb are unlike any other patient's. If you’ve undergone this surgery recently, you might be wondering what the process of getting fitted for prosthetics might look like. That’s why the prosthetics you require will depend on several factors such as
The road to mobility after limb loss can be long and at times, painful. Whether you lost your limb suddenly in an accident or had weeks to prepare before the surgery mentally. The great news is that more above-the-knee prosthetic options are available to you now than ever before. Most prosthetics manufactured these days are lighter, more durable, and better fitting than their predecessors. With proper after-surgery and at-home care, you will be up and about sooner than seems possible right now. Starting Your Journey The procedure to get fitted for above-the-knee prosthetics will start shortly after you regain consciousness after amputation surgery. Right after surgery, it’s common to experience the following symptoms
Your doctor will help you manage all these symptoms and give care instructions for bathing, sitting, and cleaning your incision site. It’s crucial to follow all instructions to the T to prepare your limb for prosthetics. Proper after-care is vital to minimise the chances of infection and ensure the availability of more prosthetic options for yourself. First Orthotist Appointment This step will happen once your doctor gives you the all-clear after examining the incision site. Your first meeting with your Orthotics is your first step toward reclaiming your mobility. Once your doctor is happy with your recovery, a meeting with an orthotist will be scheduled during your hospital stay. Your orthotist will ask questions about your pain levels, lifestyle, and activity level. Before designing and fitting you for your custom-made above-the-knee prosthetic. Compression Sock A shrinker or compression sock will be the first piece of equipment you will be fitted for. A shrinker sock acts as a compression garment for your residual limb and helps you by
Getting Fitted for the Liner Once your residual limb adapts to wearing the compression sock, it’s time to start the process of getting fitted for your first prosthetic. To accommodate your limb’s unique shape, a liner made of soft material is worn on the limb. This liner is meant to
Depending on your limb shape and physical needs, the liner can be off-the-shelf that's slightly modified to fit you. Or your doctor might make a cast of your limb for a custom-shaped liner. Temporary Prosthetic The next step is a temporary or diagnostic prosthetic for your leg. That is usually a transparent and moldable prosthetic meant for use just at the prosthetist's clinic. Think of it as training wheels for your above-the-knee prosthetic. The prosthetist will guide you about its use and how to wear it correctly. A diagnostic prosthetic and physiotherapy will help your prosthetist assess your needs and progress. It will also help them decide the type of socket, suspension, liner, and material most suited for your final prosthetic. Often, the temporary prosthetic is also modified to fit your limb to facilitate you during physiotherapy and support you better as your take the initial steps using your prosthetic. Final Above-The-Knee Prosthetic Once your prosthetist is satisfied with your healing and gait training, it’s time to get your long-term prosthetics. Carbon fiber is commonly the material of choice for above-the-knee prosthetics because of its durability, versatility, and ease of use. The process of getting fitted for this prosthetic will be done over multiple appointments. Your prosthetist will measure, fit and adjust your prosthetic and calibrate it with your height and body. After finalizing alignment, it’s time for more gait training and physiotherapy. Physiotherapy and Long-Term Care Physiotherapy is a crucial part of the healing process. The time you spend practicing with your prosthetist and physiotherapist will empower you to confidently put on, take off and walk in your prosthetic. Getting your prosthetic leg is an ongoing process as your limb changes and adjusts to new realities. Make sure to schedule regular follow-up appointments for physiotherapy and with your orthotist and prosthetist. Taking the First Step Towards Reclaiming Your Mobility Limb loss can be a devastating reality to adjust to. Our specialised teams at Align clinic are trained to help you deal with these changes. Reach out today and let our representative guide you more about the physiotherapy and prosthesis options available to you.
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 Scoliosis is the unnatural curvature or abnormal spine rotation. The severity of the disease can vary significantly from mild to completely crippling. Scoliosis often becomes the cause of many other health conditions as well. It can also hinder the proper functioning of vital organs such as the heart.
Scoliosis can be a difficult diagnosis for you and your child. Learning about the different treatment options available to your child can better equip you to make informed decisions regarding your child’s care. In addition to surgical options, there are now many physiotherapies and bracing options. Early diagnosis and treatment can mean a world of difference when it comes to scoliosis. What Is the Schroth Therapy? Schroth therapy is a non-invasive, non-surgical treatment option for scoliosis. It is more than 100 years old and consists of custom-tailored exercises to reverse and manage the condition. The therapy aims to help lengthen and alleviate the spine in a three-dimensional approach. Here are the main goals of Schroth therapy:
Schroth therapy works by rhythmically aligning breathing, sensory skills, and limb coordination. It does so by increasing awareness of one’s movement and posture. All to supplement supporting the spine in ways that alleviate its unusual curvature and rotating. The technique works particularly well for patients still in the growing age suffering from mild to moderate scoliosis. Slowing down the further regression of the deformity can go a long way toward reducing more severe complications later in life. It can also ensure a relatively pain-free and everyday life for them. Schroth Therapy for Children Adolescence, the time when most cases of pediatric scoliosis are diagnosed, is also a phase full of growth spurts and changes for your child. Schroth therapy aims to reduce the abnormal spinal curve during this time. The pediatric version of Schroth therapy often incorporates bracing and breathing and physiotherapy exercises. Each child is different, and so is the treatment route best suited to their needs. Schroth therapy offers customised treatment plans for each child. After examination, a specially trained orthodontist will determine the need for bracing with orthosis explicitly designed to help children with the condition. The age of your child, bone maturity and progression of the spinal rotation will all play a part in deciding treatment options. Schroth therapy in children aims to simultaneously slow the speed of abnormal spinal curvature while working to reverse and elongate it. How Effective Is Adolescent Schroth Therapy Many surgical and non-surgical methods of treating scoliosis in children have been developed and perfected in recent years as awareness of the malformation grew. This study finds Schroth therapy particularly effective in these areas when it comes to adolescent treatment: 1. Cobb angle The standard used for measuring the extent of scoliosis’s effects on the spinal curvature. The study finds that Schroth therapy made improvements in decreasing the Cobb angle without surgical intervention 2. Quality of Life Schroth Therapy helps improve the overall quality of life for younger scoliosis patients. Reduction of the Cobb angle results in a better self-image and less consciousness concerning scoliosis. The benefits of the therapy aren’t limited to phycological betterment alone. The therapy also helps manage pain through non-invasive treatment. Enabling your child to participate in regular childhood activities such as sports and play. Schroth therapy also effectively settles other health issues caused by scolioses, such as breathing issues and chronic fatigue. 3. Reducing the Need for Surgery All surgery carry significant risks. More so when it’s the delicate matter of pediatric spinal surgery. Schroth therapy helps children diagnosed with scoliosis by reducing the need for surgical correction. This form of therapy helps your child make behavioural modifications and correct habits that could worsen the spinal deformity, in addition to exercise and bracing. Tips to Increase Schroth Therapy’s Effectiveness for Your Child Schroth therapy sessions can seem lengthy and physically demanding. It can be hard to convince an active pre-teen to regularly attend sessions when so many other interests take up their time and attention. Your child may not always be eager to head to therapy, especially in the initial days when soreness and discomfort are normal. Here are some tips to help enlist your child’s compliance during therapy and at-home exercises. 1. Incentivise Them Offering incentives to help motivate your child is always a good idea. But it doesn't always have to come in the form of their favourite treat or game show. Help your child understand all the fun activities they will be able to do once their scoliosis improves. Plan outings and games. Read success stories together of other children who overcame scoliosis and went on to lead active, healthy lives. 2. Schedule a Routine When you pre-schedule therapy sessions and exercise time at home, it becomes second nature. Take the time to set your child’s calendar and encourage them to adhere to it. Regular practice of breathing techniques and exercise can make Schroth therapy more effective. 3. Lend Support and Encouragement It’s normal to feel sore and achy during and after therapy sessions as the body adjusts to changes and new habits. Make sure you and your child’s physiotherapy specialist take things at a pace your child is comfortable with. Offer constant encouragement and help them understand how therapy can improve and manage their condition. 4. Record Their Journey Another great way to encourage your child is to document and show them just how far they have come. Record them performing their exercises and breathing. Show them the improvements in their appearance and be their biggest cheerleader. These recordings can even come in handy to practise the exercises at home. Final Thoughts Your child can lead a very active and fulfilling life even with a scoliosis diagnosis. Help your child overcome scoliosis and avoid its complications in later life. The earlier your child is diagnosed, the sooner treatment can begin. To learn about more treatment options, Book an appointment today and help your child manage their condition.  The medical term for the condition commonly known as “Funnel chest” or ‘Sunken chest” is pectus excavatum. It’s the most common of all chest deformities. It’s a treatable condition that can range from a serve deformity to a somewhat concave chest wall appearance.
Pectus excavatum is caused by atypical growth of chest cartilage and connecting tissues. Excessive growth of the cartilage connecting the ribs to the sternum results in a deeper dip in the chest. This depression can be equal or asymmetrical on either side of the chest. The congenital condition is often diagnosed as the child grows and enters toddlerhood. The chest hollow becomes more pronounced, although the malformation is present from birth. Treatment Options for Pectus Excavatum Conventionally, the treatment for pectus excavatum was only performed surgically. Given the delicate nature of pediatric cases and the risks attached to adolescent surgery, procedures treating pectus excavatum were usually recommended in only the most extreme cases. Many methods of correcting the defect have emerged and have been perfected over the years. The most routinely used methods are the Ravitch Procedure and the Nuss Procedure, which is less invasive than the former. Risks Associated With Surgical Treatment of Pectus Excavatum While surgical treatment approaches for pectus excavatum have come a long way, they carry certain risks parents need to be aware of. Both of these options carry risks, as do all surgical procedures. An added drawback is that the patient cannot undergo MRI because of the steel bar placed in their chest. In case of emergencies, doing CPR on a patient who has undergone either of these surgeries might not be a feasible option. These added risks place patients, often in their adolescence, in greater danger than their peers. Moreover, bar displacement, pleural effusion, and infection are after-surgery complications associated with these procedures. Vacuum Bell Therapy Pectus excavatum is often diagnosed in young children and approximately affects 1 out of 300 children. The good news is that the elasticity of a young child’s breast bone lends itself well to early correction. This method works on reshaping the ribcage, breastbone, and muscles to reduce their inclination to pull the ribcage in a concave shape. Vacuum bell therapy is a minimally invasive, non-surgical treatment option for pectus excavatum. The technique is comparatively recent, developed in 2005 by Eckart Klob in Germany. This therapy works on the simple principle of suction. How It Works A small instrument made of flexible material is placed on the patient’s chest. Suction is created to coax the chest depression into a better formation. A hand pump is attached to the instrument and used to create and control suction. Over time, the vacuum bell re-trains the sternum and ribs to stay in the correct position. The whole process usually takes a year, though improvement can be noticed after 3-4 months. The success rate of rectifying the condition is high, given that the diagnosis is made early enough. Other factors that play into the success of vacuum bell therapy are compliance with the doctor’s directions and wearing the device for the prescribed period daily. Who Is a Candidate for Vacuum Bell Therapy Children with pectus excavatum are often diagnosed with other musculoskeletal issues. Proper screening and testing are required to see if the child can be helped by vacuum bell therapy. Vacuum bell therapy is a great treatment option for young children with pectus excavatum. Early diagnosis is vital because children under the age of 12 are most suitable to receive treatment. Their chest walls are malleable enough to be corrected by applying suction. Another factor is the bend of your child’s chest. If the dip is less than 1 inch, the child is considered a good candidate. Else a more invasive procedure would be the only corrective option. After the doctor deems a patient a suitable candidate for vacuum bell therapy, a custom-tailored device is fitted for the child’s specific chest shape. Care and Duration of Wear Once your child is fitted for the device, your doctor will provide you with wear duration and at-home care details. For most children, the duration of wear and suction is slowly build-up to eliminate any discomfort. The therapy is painless, although pressure is felt that can make some children resistant to wearing the device. Typically, The device is worn for about an hour for the first week, increased to 2 hours by the second week. By the second month, this duration is increased up to 3 hours of wear time. After the third or fourth month, the initial re-shaping occurs, and the patient enters the maintenance phase. Four hours of wear time is typical at this stage for best results. Your child can participate in most activities while wearing the device. Vigorous and water sports, however, are discouraged. Some children might be more conscious of wearing the device at school, although it is discreet and can’t be noticed under clothing. Children can wear the device at home or even during sleep to fulfil the daily wear time requirements. Help Your Child Avoid Surgery for Correcting Pectus Excavatum Pectus excavatum can have physical and psychological implications for your child. We at Align Clinic understand that getting a pectus excavatum can seem quite daunting as a parent. Time is of the essence as an early diagnosis can start your child on their journey towards better health. Surgery is no longer the only treatment option for your child. Start the healing process today if you suspect your child is suffering from pectus excavatum. Book an appointment today for your child to be checked out by our qualified teams.  Pectus excavatum is the most frequently observed type of chest malformation in children. The condition is also known as “Funnel chest” or “Sunken chest”. It's a chest wall deformity involving multiple ribs and the breastbone growing inwards. That gives the chest a concave appearance that looks sunken or caved-in.
What is Pectus Excavatum? It’s a genetic condition that can be passed down through heredity. About 40% of children diagnosed with the condition report having one or more relatives with the condition. Pectus excavatum is observed more commonly in males and isn’t always visible upon birth. The condition becomes more evident as the child grows, with the inwards curvature becoming more pronounced. The deformity can range from mildly odd-looking to a severely sunken chest. Causes for Pectus excavatum are not entirely understood. During normal development, the ribs and breastbone grow outward at the anterior of the chest. Pectus excavatum is believed to result from abnormal growth of the cartilage that connects the ribs to the sternum. This excessive growth pulls the sternum inward, resulting in pectus excavatum. Often, children diagnosed with pectus excavatum also suffer from one or more of the following conditions:
Even though it’s a birth defect, signs and symptoms of pectus excavatum typically appear as the child nears puberty. Mild cases only present with a slight dip in the chest wall that’s barely obvious. A child may not show any symptoms during normal daily activities but get tired and out of breath quicker than his peers. In more extreme cases, pectus excavatum can create pressure on the lung and heart. That could compromise the working of vital functions, leading to a host of other issues such as
The diagnostic process will depend on your child’s overall health and the presence of other defects. The doctor will perform a physical exam and might recommend one or more of the following tests if pectus excavatum is suspected
Children's bodies are constantly developing and growing, each unique from the other. That’s why when it comes to pectus excavatum, pediatricians often take the “wait and see” approach. Given, of course, that the deformity is not affecting cardiopulmonary function. Complications from pectus excavatum can vary widely from infants to teenagers. That’s why it's crucial to regularly monitor any suspected cases before symptoms develop into any severe complications. Scheduling regular appointments with a specialist is a great preventive measure for all children diagnosed with the condition. Pectus excavatum can be surgically treated if symptoms prevail to improve a patient’s breathing and cardiac function. That’s done by repositioning the sternum to a more natural, outward position. Once the breast bone is not bending inwards, pressure on the heart and lungs eases up. That allows enough room for the organs to function more effectively. Of course, addressing any psychological aspects of the condition is also important. Pectus excavatum often peaks when children are approaching puberty and already going through many challenges regarding their self-image. Surgery is less invasive in most cases and dramatically improves the physical appearance of the chest. Surgical options available to your child will vary on several factors. Primarily these procedures are performed for correcting pectus excavatum: The Nuss Procedure A camera is guided through the chest cavity, and two small slits are made on each side of the chest. The next step is to insert an arched steel bar just under the sternum. The curvature of these steel bars is modified for each patient, depending on their deformity. It can be left in place for up to 3 years while it slowly reshapes the chest depression. The Ravitch Procedure This is the more traditional and invasive surgical option for correcting pectus excavatum. It can take any of these two approaches: An incision is made on the front of the chest, and cartilaginous parts of the overgrown ribs are cut and removed. The sternum is then pulled forward, away from the heart and lungs, and into the natural plane of the chest wall. A metal plate and screws then securely adhere the sternum into its new position. With the second method, a small metal bar is placed behind the sternum. It's left in place from 6 months up to a year. Removal of the bar is done in a simple outpatient procedure once the chest takes on a more normal appearance. Vacuum Bell Device An effective way to treat milder pectus excavatum in young patients. A bell-shaped instrument connected to a pump is placed on the child’s chest. It pumps the air out, creating a vacuum that brings the chest forward. Doctors often recommend physical therapy and exercises in addition to all these correctional methods. The goal is to strengthen the chest muscles and improve your child’s posture. Help Your Child Overcome Pectus Excavatum If you suspect pectus excavatum in your child, the best time to take action is now. Book a free consultation today with Align clinic to discuss treatment options to correct and manage the condition.  Pectus Carinatum, the condition more commonly known as pigeon chest, is a relatively rare birth defect. The 1 out of every 1500 children that suffer from the condition is born with an abnormally shaped chest. The reason is an anomaly in the chest wall that causes the child's breastbone to protrude outwards to an abnormal degree.
The deformity becomes more prominent as the child grows, though it is present from birth. Pectus carinatum is not usually harmful or deadly. It doesn't cause any organ damage or hinder their normal functioning in any way. Asthma and respiratory issues are reported in some extreme cases, in addition to soreness in and around the chest area. The disorder certainly affects the physical appearance of the child and thus, can have psychological implications as the child grows. If left untreated, it can cause health issues later in life. Treatment Options for Pectus Carinatum Recent studies conducted regarding the illness suggest that it might occur more often than we initially realized in the past. The treatment path for your child will often vary on several factors such as:
If the illness has developed into its later stages, then surgery is usually used as a last resort option. Let’s look at some ways pectus carinatum is treated: The Ravitch Technique Up till a few years ago, the standard treatment option for pectus carinatum was “the Ravitch technique”. That’s an invasive surgical correction that involved making an incision across the chest and cutting away the defect-causing cartilage. All major surgeries come with inherent risks. There can also be serious psychological and physiological complications for the minor it was performed on. The Abramson Technique Another way to treat the deformity with a less invasive approach than the Ravitch technique is The Abramson procedure. This is a minimally invasive surgical correction method. The procedure is comparatively recent, and much less aggressive treatment for pectus carinatum. A metal bar is implanted in the presternal, extra-thoracic region during the surgery. The bar stays in place for a period of up to 2 years in an attempt to lessen the presentation of pectus carinatum. Pectus Carinatum Bracing Chest wall bracing is a great option for correcting pectus carinatum in children. Pectus carinatum bracing can be very effective if the illness is caught early enough. It’s generally prescribed for children who are still in the growing phase. The pectus carinatum brace can help correct the abnormality by gently placing pressure on the chest to re-shape the breastbone. The pectus carinatum brace is a lightweight and wearable device custom-fitted to each child’s specific size. How It Works The mechanism behind the pectus carinatum brace is comparable to how braces work to straighten teeth gently. The chest bracket is tailored to the child’s size and pushes the cartilage inwards to align it better with the chest cavity. Since the chest cartilage is more malleable in kids than other bones, the technique is generally quite effective in correcting the visible appearance of the chest wall. The pectus carinatum brace rarely causes any problems for the child. If the child feels too much pressure or shows sensitivity towards the tightness, you can give a low dose of acetaminophen once you clear it with your pediatrician. A child’s irritation with the bracing is quite understandable and differs from physical pain or discomfort. Finding the right balance between maintaining enough pressure to straighten the malformed curve while keeping the child comfortable can be challenging. The child’s doctor will schedule regular visits to monitor progress and make any needed re-adjustments to the brace. Duration of Wear Bracing typically takes place in two phases. The first is more aggressive with the child keeping the brace on for 24 hours daily. That continues till the abnormality has been corrected. The second requires the child to wear the brace only at night, anywhere from 8-12 hours until axial growth is complete. The pectus carinatum brace is unnoticeable under regular clothing. An important plus for self-conscious children who want to participate in activities with their peers. In most typical cases, the child will need to wear the pectus carinatum brace anywhere from six to twelve months. That duration can be longer or shorter depending on the severity of their case. At least 8-12 hours a day of wear is a must for the brace to be effective. Doctors allow the occasional break for activities such as
The success rate of the pectus carinatum brace is quite promising. Around 65-80 % of long-term patients fully recover with bracing as the only treatment administered. Bracing is a risk-free treatment option that can have a significant impact on boosting your child's confidence. Being vigilant in wearing the brace for the recommended daily periods is one of the best things a patient can do for recovery. Failure of pectus carinatum bracing as a treatment option is due mainly to non-compliance with the doctor’s instructions. Get Your Child Fitted for the Pectus Carinatum Brace Today Pectus carinatum can be a scary diagnosis to come to terms with. The good news is that the sooner you start treatment, the better your child’s chances of making a full recovery. To learn more about your child’s condition and treatment options, log on to the Align clinic website now and book an appointment.  Above-the-knee amputation, or AKA for short, implicates the surgical removal of the leg from or above the knee. Typically done by cutting through the thigh tissue and femoral bone completely. An above-the-knee amputation includes removing the leg from any point above the knee.
It’s a major surgical procedure with far-reaching implications for your physiologic and psychological health. The more you educate yourself about the after-care, above-the-knee prosthetics options available to you after AKA, the better you can make decisions about your health and well-being. Causes for Above The Knee Amputation Above-the-knee amputation is considered major surgery. The procedure is only carried out in the absence or failure of other options to salvage the limb. Most often, the surgery is done in emergencies to save the patient’s life when prospects of recovery of the leg are null. There can be many reasons for an above-the-knee-amputation surgery, such as
You may or may not have gotten a chance to prepare mentally before the surgery as it’s often carried out in emergencies as a life-saving measure. While the psychological implications of losing a limb are certainly deep, it helps to remember that you are not without control. Your Surgical Site Depending on the severity of the disease or trauma, the incision site will have sutures or staples. These will be removed after a month or six weeks, again, depending on how well the incision heals. The surgical site will feel raised or thickened, that’s quite normal. Immediately after surgery, your leg might be elevated to help decrease swelling. Phantom pain, swelling, tightness, and pain are common after all kinds of amputation surgeries. Hospital Stay Depending on how your healing goes and how well you respond to medication, your stay can last anywhere between 1 to 2 weeks. During this time IV medication will be administered for pain management and to mitigate the risk of clots forming. Once the first 24 hours pass post-surgery, your doctor may suggest bringing the leg down. Gently rolling over to lie face-down is also commonly prescribed to avoid tightening at the hip. Incision Care Tips Taking good care of yourself post-surgery is one of the main things you can do to be out and about as soon as possible. Good self-care practices after the procedure increase above the knee prosthetic options available to you. While post-op is definitely one of the most trying times you can go through, there are things that can help increase your comfort levels and manage pain better. Here are some post-surgical tips for above-the-knee amputees:
Using your compression stocking as prescribed by your medical care providers is one of the most important things you can do for your healing. That’ll help gently mold your leg into the optimal shape suitable for use of above the knee prosthetics. It will also control swelling at the incision site. Typically, fitting for the compression stocking will be done before you leave the hospital post-op. You can start using the sock after 48 hours of the surgery once you clear it with your doctor. Getting Fitted for Above The Knee Prosthetics The process of adjusting to life without your limb will start the moment you open your eyes post-op. While it's definitely a difficult adjustment, it helps to remember that you have great options available for above the knee prosthetics. The first piece of equipment you will use to help you maintain mobility after surgery is the Immediate Post-Operative Prosthesis (IPOP). Use this to start getting around as much as your doctor recommends. The IPOP also helps you heal by
Here is a breakdown of getting fitted for your above the knee prosthetic: The first step will be getting a custom-made liner that’ll keep your limb securely cushioned. That’ll help attach your above the knee prosthetic to your limb and keep you comfortable while using your prosthesis. The next step is getting your limb cast to help find the closest fit for your unique needs and limb shape. Once the cast is done, you’ll try on a few diagnostic socks to ensure optimal alignment between your limb and prosthesis. Once you finalize the socket that fits the best and feels comfortable, posture and gait training can be started. The final step will be to weigh your options and make a final choice about which above the knee prosthetic will best suit your activity level and lifestyle. You’ll get plenty of help during this stage to make a well-informed decision. Contact Align Clinic now and we would be happy to guide you through any questions you may have. Start Your Journey To Recovery Today Amputation is difficult, and it’s crucial to go easy with yourself and take your healing one day at a time. Our professionals at Align Clinic know just how difficult this phase can be. Book an appointment with our representative today to discover all options available to you.  As its name suggests, the disorder is known as scoliosis causes the spine to bend inward, this being the stage in which wearing a scoliosis brace is necessary. Scoliosis is most common in young children just before puberty when they are going through a growth spurt. Scoliosis affects roughly 3% of adolescents. Muscular dystrophy and cerebral palsy can make scoliosis worse, although the specific etiology is uncertain.
1. What Are the Symptoms of Scoliosis? Scoliosis usually does not produce symptoms. However, discomfort might develop in certain circumstances. Back pain may be caused by a variety of other factors, such as arthritis, the inability to stand up straight, weakness in core muscles, or a lack of training. These are just a few examples. If the lumbar spine's nerves are under pressure, then leg discomfort, numbness, and weakness might result as well. In certain cases, body changes in scoliosis and when not wearing a scoliosis brace include:
If you suspect scoliosis and think you might need to wear a scoliosis brace, then make an appointment with your General Practitioner right at once. You should have it looked out, even though it's doubtful that anything severe is going on. If the GP suspects that you have scoliosis and you might need to put on a scoliosis brace, they will recommend you to a doctor in the hospital for further evaluation. There, you will have back scans done to determine whether you have an abnormal curvature in the spine. There are several treatment options available to those with scoliosis, so it's important to contact an expert in time. 3. Can Scoliosis Cause Complications? Scoliosis, no matter how moderate or severe may be harmful to one's health. The lungs and heart may be pressed against the ribs by severe curvatures. If this happens, you might have a hard time breathing and your heart could be harmed. Adults who had scoliosis as children are more likely to experience back pain in old age. It's also possible that the scoliosis symptoms have worsened. Initially, subtle symptoms might become more obvious as scoliosis progresses, affecting your child's look and self-confidence. Scoliosis may progress to a 45-degree curvature at times. A doctor might undertake surgery to straighten and fuse the spine to fewer than 25 degrees to decrease the curvature. In children, scoliosis surgery has fewer dangers and doesn't cause too much pain. 4. How to Treat Early Scoliosis Scoliosis might be treated nonoperatively in most adult instances. Treatments may include doctor's frequent examinations, over-the-counter pain medicines, and workouts that target the abs, spine, and flexibility. If you're a smoker, then you need to stop smoking, as degenerative processes may be accelerated by smoking. Physical therapy and wearing a scoliosis brace are often prescribed by the doctor. They will help you keep or regain your strength and/or to alleviate your scoliosis symptoms. Included on the list of physical therapy are:
Adult scoliosis might need surgery in certain circumstances. Because of the potential for serious side effects from spinal surgery, this is the final resort. There are several reasons why surgery may be recommended:
When it comes to deciding whether to undergo surgery on an aesthetic abnormality, younger people are more likely to be swayed by this consideration. Each patient's situation necessitates a different approach when it comes to spinal surgery. Scoliosis is a condition that occurs when the spine becomes misaligned and puts pressure on nearby nerves. Spinal stabilization surgery employs bone grafts and titanium implants to bind the spine together and stabilize it. Computer-aided navigation systems and surgical methods have made it feasible to do less invasive procedures and reduce recuperation time. Wearing a Scoliosis Brace In many cases, wearing a scoliosis brace solves the problem to the extent that the disease no longer advances and even starts to show signs of improvement with time. Scoliosis braces can be worn at any age and by any person who suffers from this condition. Keep Your Spine Safe! Corrective procedures may be implemented if scoliosis is discovered early enough, often when the patient is a child or a toddler. Spinal alignment and growth may be corrected with a scoliosis brace. In adolescents, scoliosis might need surgery to rectify the curvature that has already begun to harden the spine. Many scoliosis patients can enjoy normal lives if diagnosed and treated early. Scoliosis that has gone untreated might worsen and lead to chronic pain that can be treated only with customized treatment strategies. Contact us today if you have any questions about scoliosis.  Scoliosis progression can be slowed down when having an unhealthy diet and the body experiences hormone or neurotransmitter abnormalities. Scoliosis isn't caused by an inadequate diet on its own. And neither ending up with scoliosis bracing is caused by an imbalanced diet.
Either the children are born predisposed to mental illness, or they aren't. However, studies have shown a connection between the condition's progression and a lack of nourishment. An inherited neuro-hormonal disorder, scoliosis may be passed down from one generation to another. The brain of the patient must send signals to muscles for spine straightening, as the spine develops wrongly. Even when the child is healthy, their brain doesn't comprehend that its posture is out of alignment and therefore, it doesn't give any signals to the body. Scoliosis may develop because of misunderstandings like these, and then, wearing scoliosis bracing might be necessary. Can Nutrition and Supplements Help Against Scoliosis? 1. Supplements That Help in Scoliosis Many people with idiopathic scoliosis don't have enough Selenium in their blood, says Wiley InterScience research. Osteopontin (OPN), which governs the bone formation, has also been shown to be elevated in scoliosis patients. Deficiency in Selenium might be producing abnormal bone formation and higher OPN levels. Every day, taking 200 mcg of Selenium or L-selenomethionine can reduce OPN levels. There is a chance that this will delay or stop the fast advancement of scoliosis. Supplements that should be avoided after spinal fusion and even when wearing scoliosis bracing include that one. After doing a nutritional assessment, further supplements that should be considered, are:
2. Improving the Diet Scoliosis progression can be prevented by improving nutrition. Everyone can benefit from these dietary recommendations. Regardless of whether they have scoliosis or not, as well as whether they are wearing scoliosis bracing or they don’t. Foods laced with preservatives and chemical additives have been shown to contribute to the development of a chronic inflammatory state. Stress triggers the release of cytokines, which in turn induces inflammation. Bone loss occurs as a result over time. Hip fractures are 73% more common in those with elevated levels of inflammatory markers. As a result, you'll have a considerably tougher difficulty keeping the spine in place if you've exhausted your muscles or have been wearing scoliosis bracing for a long time. Muscles and bones are deprived of vital nutrients by several chemical additions. Salt, for example, causes the kidneys to excrete an excessive amount of Calcium. Calcium absorption is inhibited by soda and sugar. A lack of bone mass may be caused by drinking alcohol, which also inhibits bone growth. Every 100 mg of caffeine leads to losing 6 mg of Calcium from bones. Citric fruits and liquids should also be avoided, doctors are saying. Tomato juice as well. Vitamin C, which is found in citrus fruits, may stimulate the body to shift Calcium from bones into the bloodstream. This weakens the skeletal system. So, people who suffer from scoliosis and especially those who are wearing scoliosis bracing might benefit from any formula for strong bones. Losing weight while also preventing or slowing the advancement of the spinal curvature may feel like an impossible task. Reading product labels is a good place to begin. It's possible that people don't even know how much sugar, salt, or other preservatives they're consuming. Healthier alternatives like whole-grain flours are always best. Eat as many vegetables as possible, as well as fruits that are grown without the use of pesticides. Non-organic foods are most of the time tainted by carcinogens, pesticides, hormone disruptors, developmental toxins, and neurotoxins. 3. Foods to Avoid Below is a list of foods to avoid when suffering from scoliosis, whether the condition requires wearing scoliosis bracing or not. · Wine, beer, and spirits · White flour · Sodas · All soy products, soy milk included · Coffee · Sugar – it can be replaced with Stevia · Salt is OK only in little doses, provided it is sea salt · Chocolate, only if it's dark and in small amounts · Frozen or deep-fried dishes, notably from fast-food chains · Corn syrup · Food chemicals and preservatives from pre-packaged luncheon meats · MSG and some other additives such as Gelatin, Monosodium Glutamate, Calcium Caseinate, HVP, Textured Protein, Monopotassium Glutamate, HPP, Yeast Extract, Glutamate, Autolyzed Plant Protein, and others Alleviate Scoliosis Pain Through Healthy Eating Scoliosis therapy may benefit greatly from a healthy diet. The capacity to train the brain so that the posture is corrected and the spinal curvature gets minimized is essential for healing successes in the long run. More improvement can be achieved when neurotransmitters become restored to their normal levels. You can reach us here if you have more questions regarding this article.  Scoliosis bracing for adults could make sense at an adult age, but after many years down the road, how could surgery be avoided?
Often, parents of children with scoliosis are rushed into making a choice before they have the time to gather the information needed to make informed decisions about long-term therapies for scoliosis. How Do Scoliosis Treatments Affect Patients in the Long Run? Below are the long-term therapies for scoliosis and how these affect patients: 1. Back Bracing A 12-year-old scoliosis patient's muscles on the back had deteriorated so much that she was unable to stand on her own. After many years, most of those who wear scoliosis bracing for adults are required to wear braces for more than 20 hours every day. That long-term stress on a child's body might lead to irreversible physical changes. Bracing, on the other hand, doesn't correct long-term curvature. The curve size of patients changes when they start wearing braces. But, only a few have a significant increase in their curves' size. For example, the average curve can increase by 4 degrees over the course of 25 years after wearing scoliosis bracing for adults. Scoliosis bracing for adults may have detrimental long-term repercussions, such as:
2. Spinal Fusion Surgery After spinal fusion, most patients have long-term problems. Scoliosis surgery can cause implants to fail or get dislodged, which results in spinal damage and the need for numerous procedures to correct it. Deep infections can occur even after 10 years from surgery. Scoliosis surgery does not have any long-term repercussions. However, just 1 in 3 people who undergo surgery retain many of its advantages in the next 10 years. 1 in 5 patients may need further surgery. Spinal fusion surgery also has long-term problems, such as:
There are alternatives to bracing for children or scoliosis bracing for adults and surgery. Activity suits stabilize or improve curves in 9 out of 10 patients. 2 out of every 3 children who wear a suit see a drop in the size of their curve. The advantages of wearing activity suits are:
There is a tendency to focus only on the scoliosis problem when trying to treat it. The first objective shouldn't be beating the evolution of the curve. Consider the long-term impact on quality of life while deciding on a long-term treatment strategy. If you have any questions about scoliosis not covered in this article, feel free to reach out and we’ll be happy to help.  Bracing may be the non-surgical approach to treat idiopathic scoliosis so far proven. Yet, exercise is also a reliable method to keep your back flexible. It keeps the spine strong and encourages excellent posture.
This article will look into the following:
What Is Scoliosis? Scoliosis is the lateral spine curvature, most often affecting teenagers. This disease may develop in adults who have cerebral palsy or muscular dystrophy. Most cases of juvenile scoliosis, however, have unclear causes. Scoliosis is usually moderate, although certain curvatures increase when children grow older. Scoliosis can lead to disability in children. In severe cases, the curvature of the spine reduces the space in the chest. The lungs could stop working correctly. Mild scoliosis patients are generally followed by regular X-rays. This is for assessing whether the curvature is worsening. In many circumstances, there is no need for therapy or to wear a scoliosis brace designed by an orthotist. However, doctors may recommend that a child wear a Kid's scoliosis brace to prevent the curvature from getting worse. Whereas adults must wear a scoliosis adult brace. Others could need surgery to correct extreme spine curvature. Scoliosis Symptoms Scoliosis manifests itself in diverse ways but here are the common scoliosis symptoms:
Scoliosis may lead to more obvious abnormalities like
Patients with scoliosis often feel self-conscious about their appearance. Especially when the case has worsened, they need to wear a brace. Causes Doctors aren't sure what causes prevalent scoliosis cases. The disease, however, relates to inherited factors. Most times, the condition runs in families. There are other known causes for scoliosis, including:
The following factors can put you at risk for scoliosis:
Scoliosis Exercises For patients with scoliosis, the goal of exercise and physical therapy is to relieve pain and improve posture. Your doctor or physical therapist can devise an exercise program for you. You’ll probably do a series of stretches and strengthening movements to help reverse the curve in your spine. Here are the 4 scoliosis exercises that should be performed as often as possible or necessary:
The abdominal muscles will be strengthened because of this exercise. The exercise is best done on a mat.
3. Cat/Cow The tendons and muscles supporting the spine get to be stretched with this workout.
This is a stretch that can help release the lat muscles to strengthen them. These might be feeling tight in scoliosis.
Final Thoughts Scoliosis is a potentially harmful condition. It makes living more difficult, but finding relief might be simpler than you think. Additionally, scoliosis poses different obstacles according to age and severity. Scoliosis is more than a physical problem. It might also influence mental health like the ability to take part in activities. However, with the support of qualified specialists and minimally invasive non-surgical solutions like the exercises mentioned in this article, you can manage scoliosis and possibly avoid wearing a scoliosis brace. Those who aren't candidates for surgery will always have these alternative options useful. Consult your doctor to determine if these exercises for strengthening the back are recommended for you or if you must see an orthotist. |
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