Pay attention if your child has this symptom while swimming!
Experts state that for the early diagnosis of scoliosis, which causes the spine to curve into 'S' and 'C' shapes, it is very important for parents to carefully observe their children's bodies while they are swimming.
İHA
Orthopedics and Traumatology Specialist Assoc. Prof. Dr. Ömer Bozduman provided information on the occasion of World Scoliosis Awareness Month.
Stating that "a diagnosis of scoliosis is made if a curvature of more than 10 degrees is detected radiologically," Bozduman pointed out that the most common group affected is adolescents, noting that families often overlook this condition.
''MOST COMMONLY SEEN IN ADOLESCENCE''
Stating that the prevalence of scoliosis in Turkey varies regionally between 1 and 3 percent, Bozduman said, "It is most commonly seen in adolescence. Usually, family physicians or physical education teachers warn the families and refer these children to us. The most common symptoms are shoulder imbalance and asymmetry between the arms and the body."
''THE SPINE TAKES ON AN S OR C SHAPE''
Explaining that scoliosis results in S and C-shaped curvatures, Bozduman said, "When the spine curves in the lumbar or thoracic region, a second curvature forms to compensate for it. This curvature takes on an 'S' shape. While the problem is initially in one region, it spreads to two regions with progressive loading. In 'C' curvatures, this compensation mechanism does not work, and the patient arrives leaning to one side."
TREATMENT METHODS
Regarding scoliosis treatment, Bozduman stated, "After the initial evaluation, we perform the necessary radiological examinations to make a diagnosis and choose the treatment. Treatment varies according to age and degree. In younger ages, we often prefer methods such as physical therapy and bracing, but we can apply specific surgical methods for certain age groups that exceed a certain degree."
''OBSERVE YOUR CHILDREN'S BODIES WHILE THEY ARE SWIMMING''
Pointing out the importance of early diagnosis in scoliosis and warning families about this issue, Bozduman said, "Since our city of Antalya is a holiday destination, we have more opportunities to see our children when their bodies are bare. Careful observation by families here will lead to early diagnosis and treatment, saving many children from surgery. For this, families need to pay attention to observation. They should observe, 'Are the levels of the shoulders and shoulder blades equal when the children are swimming? Is there asymmetry between their arms and their bodies? Are their hip levels symmetrical?' and if they notice any difference, they must consult an orthopedics and traumatology specialist."