Special situations
Neuromuscular scoliosis
In scoliosis that accompanies muscle and nervous system conditions, sitting balance, breathing and ease of care come first.
Why does it develop?
In conditions such as cerebral palsy, muscle diseases (for example Duchenne muscular dystrophy), spinal muscular atrophy and spinal cord disorders, the muscles that support the trunk are weak or work unevenly. This can lead to a curve in the spine. These curves usually start earlier and can continue to progress after growth has finished.
What is affected?
- Sitting balance and position in a wheelchair
- Tilting of the pelvis (pelvic obliquity) and the pressure sores this can cause
- Breathing capacity
- Feeding and ease of daily care
Treatment
Treatment is planned by looking at your child’s general health, breathing function and nutrition together. Seating adjustments and, in some cases, soft braces can be used to support position; however, in these conditions a brace usually does not stop the curve from progressing.
When the curve progresses and sitting balance deteriorates, surgery may be recommended. The aims are balanced sitting, easier care and protecting breathing. The decision to operate is made together with the paediatric neurology, respiratory, anaesthesia and nutrition teams.
Because breathing function can decline over time in some of these conditions, the timing of surgery is especially important. This is why breathing tests are requested at check-ups.
This article is for general information and does not replace an examination. Diagnosis and treatment decisions are made individually, based on examination and test results.
https://www.sinacoskun.com/en/info/neuromuscular-scoliosis/