Definitions
Cervical: in scoliosis cervical refers to the seven cervical vertebrae that make up the top part of the spine.
Cobb angle: This is the name of the measurement of scoliosis that is obtained from an X-ray. It refers to the severity of the curvature and is measured in degrees. A measurement under 10 degrees is regarded as normal, between 10 degrees and 30 degrees is classed as mild, and anything over 60 degrees is severe.
Congenital: This refers to a condition that is present at birth, such as a malformed vertebra.
Costoplasty: This is a ‘cosmetic’ operation, in which some of the ribs are removed, to reduce the prominence of the ribs and improve appearance.
Degenerative: Sometimes called neurodegenerative, this refers to a disease or condition that results in progressive deterioration and is usually age-related– it continues to get ‘worse’ over time.
Idiopathic: This means that the cause (of a disease/condition) is unknown. Idiopathic scoliosis means that the curve has formed for an unknown reason.
Kyphosis: This is the term given to an “outward” curve of the upper part of the spine that makes the back appear more rounded than usual, and can cause stiffness or back pain.
Lumbar: The lumbar region is the lower part of the spine and is made up of five vertebrae. It is the strongest part of the spine and bears a lot of weight.
Neurological system: Also known as the nervous system, the neurological system is the tissues, cells and organs that regulate the body’s response to internal and external stimuli or events.
Osteoporosis: This is condition resulting in a decrease in bone density that causes bones to become weak or fragile.
Prognosis: This is a medical term which means ‘the likely outcome or course of a disease’ – ie, a prediction of what will happen to the patient as a result of the disease/condition, such as the likelihood of recovery.
Pulmonary function: This refers to the function of the lungs. How well they are working can be measured by specific tests.
Symptomatic: Showing symptoms as a result of a disease/condition. Symptoms are signs of the disease/condition that are usually noticed by the patient, or, more often in the case of scoliosis, someone close to the patient.
Syndromic: Relating to a syndrome. Syndromic scoliosis means that scoliosis has occurred secondary to a syndromic disorder, such as Marfan’s syndrome.
Thoracic: Thoracic refers to the twelve vertebrae between the cervical and lumbar parts of the spine. The thoracic vertebrae are attached to the ribs, and the chest is often referred to as the thoracic cavity. In terms of scoliosis, a thoracic curve is a ‘C’ shaped curve of the upper back.