11 signs that may indicate scoliosis

Scoliosis is characterized by a lateral curvature of the spine, in an “S” shape, which can affect health and leave the body out of alignment, since the correct thing is to have the spine completely vertical, as if a line were drawn with a scale. The problem can cause discomfort, breathing problems and even walking.

Some people with scoliosis have a mild case and therefore do not notice this curve. Also, contrary to what many people think, back pain is not the most obvious sign. The correct thing is to observe some very subtle symptoms, which are usually not related to the problem.

According to experts, it’s important to pay attention to these signs and, if you notice something, see a doctor, who will do an X-ray to determine if you, in fact, have scoliosis and, if so, prescribe some treatment options. treatment. Check out some of these signs:

1. One of your shoulders is higher than the other

An easy way to detect scoliosis is to simply look in the mirror, stand straight, and see if one of your shoulders appears to be higher than the other. Scoliosis often starts in childhood, during a growth phase, and the curvature of the spine changes the natural alignment of the shoulders.

2. The chest bone appears more on one side

Along with uneven shoulders, you may notice that your rib cage pops out on more than one side. This happens due to the abnormal curve of the spine, which shifts to the side and creates a change in the associated structures like the pelvis and rib cage giving the uneven appearance.

3. One of your legs looks shorter

If the spine is curved, it can make one leg appear shorter than the other. You can notice this by noting if your pants always look different on each leg or if one hem drags on the floor while the other doesn’t.

4. Your shirts are always wrinkled on one side

Of course, clothes wrinkles don’t necessarily mean scoliosis, but if you notice that it happens all the time, it could be a very subtle sign. That’s because scoliosis can cause a “hump” in the back, with one side sticking out more than the other. If that hunchback has been making your shirt lean against your chair all day, but only on one side, you’re likely to notice more wrinkles in that area.

5. One sleeve is always longer than the other

If you haven’t noticed much of a difference in the pant legs, you may notice that one shirt sleeve is always longer than the other, no matter what size you buy. Depending on the location of the curve, the shoulders may be uneven. Changes in posture can also cause one sleeve to appear shorter than the other.

6. Your shoes are more worn on one side than the other

As the curved spine displaces your pelvis, this can make you walk out of alignment, which leads to uneven wear on a patient’s shoes. Note the sole especially below the toes or on the back of the heel.

7. It’s weird to carry bags or backpacks

If your back is curved, one side of your body will be lower than the other, which can cause subtle changes in the way your clothes fit on your body, as well as the way you carry a purse or backpack. If you have a preference for holding your bag on one side rather than the other, or are constantly adjusting your bag as you walk, it could be a sign.

8. Sometimes you feel awkward when walking

Again, because of the relationship between scoliosis, posture, and walking, you may notice that you don’t swing your arms in an ordinary way, even. This is because decreased arm space on the turn side can affect arm swing with walking.

9. You have chronic muscle pain

If your body is slightly out of alignment, there may be some unpleasant aches and pains as your muscles end up getting tight or weak over time.

10. You always lean to one side while standing

While it’s comfortable to bend your knees and bend over a little while standing, see if you’re constantly putting more weight on one leg than the other. Scoliosis creates pelvic imbalances that often facilitate an asymmetrical position with more weight on one foot, or always with one foot behind the other.

11. Sometimes it’s hard to breathe

If you feel a little uncomfortable when you take a deep breath, or sometimes a little smothered, it could be due to scoliosis, which limits the expansion of the rib cage.

The sooner you notice these signs and start treatment, the better. There are several ways to deal with the problem, such as physical therapy, postural support devices, support braces, exercises to reduce pressure on the muscles and bones associated with the spine, among others.

The information contained on this page is for informational purposes only. They do not replace the advice and follow-up of doctors, nutritionists, psychologists, physical education professionals and other specialists.