I wrote about kyphosis and lordosis of the lower back, and I received many inquiries about scoliosis. Scoliosis is also an abnormal curvature of the spine. With scoliosis, the spine curves sideways. It’s actually quite common, especially in adolescents when they have a grow spurt and their hormones are running wild. Mild forms of scoliosis are about the same among males and females, however more serious sideways curvatures are more seen in females.

So why is someone getting scoliosis? As mentioned above, hormones and a growth spurt can affect the spine. People with cerebral palsy and muscular dystrophy can get/have scoliosis. It can be a birth defect where the spine developed sideways in the womb. Surgery on the chest wall as a baby can develop scoliosis as can injuries to the spine, or tumors. And yes, family history of scoliosis can increase the risk of getting scoliosis.

So, what are symptoms of scoliosis, a sideways curvature of the spine?

• Uneven shoulders

• One shoulder blade sticking out more than the other

• One hip higher than other

• One side of ribcage sticking out more

• One side of the back bulging more when bending over

I know at my physical to get into my sports college, they made me bend over to see how my spine was aligned. One of the reasons is that when a lot of stress is put upon the spine, such as sports, complications can arise. Back problems and even breathing problems can occur with scoliosis. I would not have been able to pass the physical if I had scoliosis due to the high demands a sports college puts on your body (and spine). Children and adolescents who are diagnosed with scoliosis are closely monitored. X-rays will be taken and sometimes a brace is recommended. In severe cases, surgery might be necessary.

Scoliosis must be diagnosed by a medical doctor. Early detection can prevent or slow scoliosis. Physical therapy can be prescribed. Exercise programs have not been studied well, but keeping your child/adolescent active and physical fit, keeping their muscles strong has helped them feel better, and possible slow down the progress of the spine curving sideways. If you suspect your child or adolescent has an abnormal curvature of the spine, check with their doctor and have a proper diagnosis so that they can guide you to the next step. In the meantime, the best thing is to keep them active and fit.

Ester H. Marsh is director of healthy living and associate executive director at the J.F. Hurley Family YMCA.