What Causes Scoliosis?

Muscular Dystrophy

Muscular dystrophy is the name given to a group of conditions that cause the muscles to weaken and waste away. There are many types of muscular dystrophy, and they range from mild to severe. The symptoms include weakness, lack of coordination, an unusual gait, the tendency to fall and difficulty getting back up, and muscles that look larger and stronger than normal but are smaller and weaker. In the later stages of muscular dystrophy, the individual may be confined to a wheelchair, and their body may be badly distorted, which may include scoliosis.

Spinal Injuries And Infections

The abnormal curving of the spine can be the result of spinal injuries and infections. Scoliosis caused by an injury such as those suffered in a car accident or fall is called degenerative scoliosis. It is important for an individual who has suffered an injury to their back or spine to see a doctor to determine if the injury has caused the spine to be out of alignment. An injured spine can be treated with back braces, other therapies, and surgery as a last resort. Before the vaccine, polio was one infection that caused scoliosis. Another infection that can lead to the sideways curvature of the spine is vertebral osteomyelitis. This happens when bacteria such as the Staphylococcus aureus invade the vertebrae. Fortunately, this disease is rare, though when it happens, it usually affects the very young and the elderly.