Scoliosis

What is scoliosis?

Scoliosis is a sideways curvature of the vertebral column (the spine). The severity of scoliosis is determined on the basis of the angle of the curvature (the Cobb angle). Scoliosis also results in the rotation of the spine around its axis, causing the ribs to protrude at the back at the level of the chest: a 'gibbus deformity' or 'hunch'.

 

What are the complaints associated with scoliosis?

Scoliosis – certainly in children – does not in itself result in pain but it will impair lung function. Later in life, scoliosis can lead to pain and fatigue. If the scoliosis develops later, it will often cause severe pain and restricted movement. Very severe scoliosis may result in pressure on the lungs and abdominal organs.


People with intellectual disabilities sometimes find it impossible to communicate these symptoms. The people around them may then notice only a change in behaviour.

 

How common is scoliosis in the general population?

Idiopathic adolescent scoliosis with a Cobb angle of 10 degrees or more is seen in 3%. However, only 10% of these people need treatment. 347

 

How common is scoliosis in people with intellectual disabilities?

Scoliosis is seen in 20-25% of people with cerebral palsy (spasticity). In 50% of them, it presents before the tenth year of life. 584
In people with severe multiple disabilities, prevalence is even higher at about 60%. 585

 

Scoliosis is also seen more often in certain syndromes, such as Rett syndrome (prevalence of 36% to 100%, increasing with age 348 , 386 ), Prader Willi syndrome (15-43% in children 349 , 350 , 351 , 352  rising to 78% in adults 587 ) and Williams syndrome (34%) 588 .

3% General population
Not known for people with intellectual disabilities
60% People with severe multiple disabilities

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