Dr Maziar Badii, MD, Rheumatologist , Vancouver, BC
Visual Screening: A pediatrician or specialist examines the child’s posture and body alignment for signs of scoliosis, such as uneven shoulders, one shoulder blade protruding more than the other, an uneven waistline, asymmetry of the hips, or a tilt of the head or trunk.
If you’re writing for a general audience, you could also say:
Visual Screening: During a physical examination, a healthcare provider looks for visible signs of spinal curvature, including uneven shoulders, a prominent shoulder blade, an uneven waist, or a tilted posture.
Diagnosis of congenital scoliosis involves a thorough evaluation that begins with a detailed medical history and physical examination. The diagnosis is confirmed through specialized imaging studies, which identify structural abnormalities of the vertebrae present at birth. Additional testing may be needed to detect associated spinal cord or nerve abnormalities, as well as congenital defects affecting other organs, particularly the heart, kidneys, and urinary tract.
Dr Maziar Badii, MD, Rheumatologist , Vancouver, BC
Diagnosis of Congenital Scoliosis
Congenital scoliosis is a spinal deformity that develops before birth when one or more vertebrae do not form correctly or fail to separate properly during fetal development.
When and How It Is Detected
In some cases, congenital scoliosis can be identified during pregnancy through prenatal ultrasound. More commonly, it is discovered during a newborn’s physical examination. Mild spinal curves may not be noticeable at birth and may only become apparent later in childhood, particularly during periods of rapid growth.
Diagnostic Evaluation
The diagnostic process begins with a thorough physical examination. Healthcare providers assess spinal alignment, shoulder and trunk balance, and look for skin findings that may indicate underlying spinal abnormalities, such as dimples, birthmarks, or patches of hair over the spine.
Some common emotional impacts include:
- Depression: Feelings of sadness, hopelessness, or loss of interest in activities may develop, particularly when pain, mobility limitations, or treatment demands interfere with daily life.
- Anxiety: Concerns about disease progression, future surgeries, physical appearance, pain, or social acceptance can contribute to persistent worry.
- Body image concerns: Visible spinal curvature, uneven shoulders or hips, and surgical scars can affect self-esteem and confidence, especially during adolescence and young adulthood.
- Social isolation: Individuals may withdraw from social situations due to self-consciousness, physical limitations, or the feeling that others do not understand their experiences.
- Stress related to treatment: Ongoing appointments, imaging studies, bracing, surgeries, rehabilitation, and uncertainty about outcomes can create substantial emotional strain for both patients and families.
Research suggests that psychosocial outcomes can vary widely. Factors such as the severity of the spinal deformity, pain levels, family support, coping skills, access to mental health resources, and social environment all influence how a person adapts to the condition.
Dr Maziar Badii, MD, Rheumatologist , Vancouver, BC
Dr Maziar Badii, MD, Rheumatologist , Vancouver, BC
Dr Maziar Badii, MD, Rheumatologist , Vancouver, BC
Andy De Santis RD, M.S Registered Dietitian.
Foods to Focus On for Spine and Joint Health
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Omega-3s can help reduce inflammatory processes in the body and may be beneficial for people with inflammatory joint conditions.
Good sources:
- Salmon
- Sardines
- Chia seeds
- Walnuts
Vitamin D and Calcium
These nutrients are essential for bone health and maintaining bone mineral density. Vitamin D also helps the body absorb calcium.
Congenital scoliosis is a structural curvature of the spine that results from abnormalities in spinal development present at birth. Diagnosis typically involves a combination of physical examination and imaging studies, such as X-rays, MRI scans, and CT scans, to assess the type and severity of the spinal deformity. While nutrition does not correct the underlying spinal anomaly, maintaining adequate intake of key nutrients supports bone health, muscle function, growth, and recovery following any surgical treatment.
Dr John Wade Rheumatologist, Vancouver BC
RD Andy Desantis, Toronto, Ontario
RD Andy Desantis, Toronto, Ontario
Dr Maziar Badii, MD, Rheumatologist , Vancouver, BC
Danielle Langford Physiotherapist, Vancouver , BC
