Neuromuscular scoliosis in children
Our pediatric orthopedic surgeons, neurosurgeons, neurologists, pulmonologists, physical medicine and rehabilitation physicians and physical therapists, at Children's Health℠, are uniquely qualified to provide comprehensive care to children with neuromuscular scoliosis (neu·ro·mus·cu·lar - sco·li·o·sis).
What is neuromuscular scoliosis in children?
Neuromuscular scoliosis is a complex spinal problem caused by an underlying neuromuscular disease such as spina bifida, muscular dystrophy or cerebral palsy. Children’s Health Andrews Institute Spine Center is the only medical facility in North Texas with a multidisciplinary team devoted to treating all the physical and emotional issues that surround neuromuscular scoliosis and the primary muscular or neurological condition.
What are the signs and symptoms of neuromuscular scoliosis in children?
Neuromuscular scoliosis tends to show up earlier in children than adolescent idiopathic scoliosis. It also progresses more rapidly, and advances even after the child has stopped growing. Symptoms are similar to other forms of scoliosis.
They include:
Shoulders appear uneven
One hip is higher than the other
Waist looks uneven
Rib cage is more prominent on one side
Pelvis is tilted
Pressure sores may appear (in children who use wheelchairs)
How is neuromuscular scoliosis in children diagnosed?
At the Spine Center, our pediatric spine specialists will perform a comprehensive evaluation to diagnose your child’s condition.
Our expert evaluation will include:
A family and medical history
A physical exam
An x-ray or CT scan taken by a pediatric radiologist
How is neuromuscular scoliosis in children treated?
At the Spine Center, a multidisciplinary team will develop a comprehensive plan to treat all aspects of neuromuscular scoliosis and the primary neuromuscular condition. Although our doctors will try all non-surgical treatment options first, this type of scoliosis often requires surgery.
We know this is a difficult option to consider, but parents can take comfort knowing that our pediatric orthopedic surgeons use the most innovative and advanced treatments available. Learn about diagnosis and treatment.