Scoliosis

Lojun Alfadil
Neurophysiotherapist
Faculty of physiotherapy
Alneelain university
Definition

 it is the lateral curvature of the spine, and it might be

associated with vertebral rotation in severe cases. It could
be S or C shape.
Causes

 Congenital  Acquired
1.vertebral….. Anomaly or 1. Fracture
malformation. 2. Muscle imbalance
2. Neuromuscular….. Accompanied 3. Leg length discrepancy
with CP, polio.
4. Pelvic obliquity
5. Potts disease
Classification

1. According to the causes( acquired & congenital)

2. According to shape ( C & S scoliosis )
3. According to site ( lumber & dorsal )
4. According to degree ( structural & non structural )

Note: structural scoliosis will be irreversible it is due to bony abnormality . Non structural
might be due to sciatica or LLD.
By observation

1. Uneven shoulders
2. Shoulder plate more protruded
3. Uneven pelvic girdle
4. Tilting of the head to one side in severe cases
5. Intercostal spaces wider on the convex side
6. Skin folds on the concave side
Examination

1. Adam’s bending test

2. Assessment of the motor system ( tone, reflex, power & ROM)
3. Assessment of the respiratory system
 Cobb’s angle:

 It is used to determine the degree of scoliosis. From X-ray AB view two lines are drawn
from both upper and lower borders of the curve.

Normal 0

Mild 20_ 30

Moderate 30_70

Severe 70_ 100

physiotherapy Treatment

1. Postural correction
2. Stretching for the concave side
3. Strengthen for the convex side
4. Splinting ( Milwaukee brace)
5. Spinal mobilization
6. Traction
7. Electrical stimulation
Surgical treatment
Thank you