COMMON CONDITIONS

SPINAL DEFORMITY

Spinal deformity relates to disorders affecting the shape and alignment of the spine.

Usually the spine is straight when viewed from the back. There is a gentle S shape to the spine when viewed from the side.

The normal arching forwards of the spine (in the neck and lower back) is called lordosis. The normal curving backwards of the spine (the part of the spine between your shoulder blades) is called kyphosis.

When you have a spinal deformity, you develop abnormal curves in one or more of these views.

Spinal deformity can affect any age group.

Spinal Deformity Surgeons are Spine Surgeons that have undergone further training to allow them to deal with the complex problems that spinal deformity can give rise to.

In general, these surgeons also deal with other problems commonly found in the growing spine.

SCOLIOSIS

A scoliosis is an abnormal curve when viewed from the back (should be straight). It actually involves a twisting of the bones in your spine and not just a tilt.

There are different causes and types of scoliosis that are described in detail in other sections. You can find more information here.

Spondylolysis

This is a stress fracture of the spine that commonly affects children and teenagers. It may cause pain.

You can find more information here.