Dispensary examinations of school-age children are carried out for the purpose of early detection of pathologies, especially developmental disorders of the musculoskeletal – motor apparatus. To do this, during examination, the child is examined in different positions of the body, paying attention to the asymmetry of the skin folds, pelvis, shoulder blades, height of the forearms, and the presence of the costal hump. When a curvature of the spine is detected, the angle of curvature is measured using a scoliometer. If a curvature of more than 70 is detected, an X-ray of the spine is mandatory, with further consideration of the issue of treatment. What methods are used to treat scoliosis in children?
Diagnosis and physiotherapy treatment of scoliosis in children
X-ray is performed lying in two projections, as well as in a standing position. The magnitude of the curvature is determined based on the obtained spondylograms. In this case, the Fergusson or Kob method is used, and the spinal stability index is also determined. MRI and CT are used for a more detailed examination of the spine and ligaments.
Treatment of scoliosis in children involves differentiated approaches to the implementation of therapeutic measures - taking into account the different degree of severity of the process in the spine. Conservative treatment is carried out with the participation of massage therapists, vertebrologists, physiotherapists and exercise therapy instructors.
In the presence of non-progressive scoliosis of the 1st or 2nd degree of curvature of the spine, the main treatment is to eliminate the causes that contribute to the progressive curvature, as well as to reduce the static load on the spine. In a period when scoliosis has not yet developed much, it is important to perform gymnastic procedures to strengthen the muscles, and swimming, back massage and posture control also help well.
Periodically, such children need to take a horizontal position of the body to unload the back muscles. The main treatment for scoliosis in children at this stage is swimming.
See also: What are the symptoms of scoliosis in children?
It is important to observe the orthopedic regimen, which, in addition to the above, includes sleeping on a hard board. If scoliosis has a progressive course, in addition to physiotherapy, an individual set of exercises is prescribed.
Physiotherapeutic methods of treating scoliosis in children:
- SMT – therapy;
- hydrotherapy;
- thermotherapy;
- mud treatment;
- magnetotherapy;
- orthopedic massage.
Important aspects of the surgical treatment of scoliosis in children
Surgical treatment of scoliosis in children is indicated in the progression of spinal deformity despite conservative treatment. When it is better to carry out surgical treatment of scoliosis, estet-portal.com knows.
Surgical method of treatment is appropriate for curvature of the spine more than 400, as well as for disruption of the internal vital organs. At the same time, surgical treatment of scoliosis in children is advisable to be carried out at the age of 10 to 14 years.
During the operation, fixation devices are implanted by dorsal, transthoracic or combined approach. The most commonly used detractors are Harrington, Kuzmin, Cottrell's – Dubusset, Rodnyansky's endocorrector – Gupalova. Before surgical treatment of scoliosis in children, traction of the spine is mandatory.
If there are indications, corrective osteoporosis is performed – plastic surgery and mobilizing surgery: wedge resection of the vertebrae and tenoligamentocapsulotomy according to Shulutko, discectomy, cosmetic interventions (resection of the angle of the scapula or costal hump). After surgical treatment of scoliosis in children, a long-term rehabilitation is carried out.
Prognosis in the treatment of scoliosis in children. Measures to prevent scoliosis
With an unfavorable progressive course, spinal deformities appear up to 6 years. All children with scoliosis should have routine orthopedic treatment twice a year. The development of severe scoliosis can only be stopped by ongoing treatment. Therefore, it is very important during the development of the child to ensure the correct motor mode, control over posture, as well as the exclusion of large loads on the spine. Regular exercise, swimming, sleeping on a hard surface, regular daytime rest and recreational gymnastics will help prevent an unpleasant procedure for treating scoliosis in children.
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