(Newswire.net — July 27, 2016) Milburn, New Jersey — In the United States, thousands of children and adolescents are diagnosed with scoliosis, or sideways curvature of the spine, every year. Parents often have questions or concerns about the causes of scoliosis in children and the treatment options available. Physicians at the North Jersey Orthopaedic Group have helped many children afflicted with this musculoskeletal disorder, and they have insights into the disorder that can help young patients and their families understand the treatment options. “Scoliosis in itself is not a dangerous condition, provided treatment is undertaken before the spine’s curvature becomes severe,” says a spokesperson for the New Jersey-based clinical practice. “With proper diagnosis and treatment at our clinics, children with scoliosis can lead happy, healthy, and normal lives.” To learn more about the scoliosis treatments available at the Group’s clinics, visit www.njog.com/scoliosis-treatment.
The condition is characterized by a sideways curvature of the spine. It is not often associated with pain, but severe curvatures can impede normal growth in children. While most cases present in children over the age of 10 years, the disorder can also be found in toddlers and the very young. There are several types of scoliosis in children. The most common, idiopathic scoliosis, is caused by unknown means and accounts for up to 85% of all cases. Children can also be born with congenital scoliosis, which may be caused by bones in the spine not forming properly in the fetus. Neuromuscular scoliosis can be caused by an underlying medical condition, such as cerebral palsy, muscular dystrophy, or a spinal injury. Muscular weaknesses or imbalances lead to the curving of the spine. In very severe cases, heart and lung problems or paralysis caused by compression of the spinal cord are all possibilities.
In most children, slight cases of scoliosis do not require any interventional treatment. The spinal curves will remain, but they do not impact the growth or wellbeing of those children. More severe cases may require bracing or even surgery. Bracing requires children to wear a custom-made hard plastic or elastic brace to prevent a curve from worsening. Once physicians at the North Jersey Orthopaedic Group assess the severity of the spine’s curvature using x-rays or other imaging, they can develop a treatment plan. “The treatment can depend on the child’s age, the location of the curve, and how curved the spine is in that location,” adds the spokesperson. “For curvatures over 50 degrees, surgery is the primary treatment option.” For more information on the wide range of patient services available at the Group’s five clinic locations, visit www.njog.com.
About North Jersey Orthopaedic Group
With five locations in northern New Jersey, North Jersey Orthopaedic Group and its clinics provide patients with world-class musculoskeletal treatment options. The Group’s team of orthopedic physicians, surgeons, and physician assistants specialize in both surgical and non-surgical/non-invasive procedures, including sports medicine, joint replacement, and physical therapy options. Patient care and education are the Group’s top priorities, with the staff forging strong patient-physician relationships.
North Jersey Orthopaedic Group
33 Bleeker StreetMilburn, New Jersey 07041
United States
(973) 330-8765
gcoxmdrr@gmail.com
http://www.njog.com/