Scoliosis: The truth about common myths

Having scoliosis does not mean that you will not be able to have children or will have trouble with a normal birth. Scoliosis has no effect on conception and in most cases women have no problems with pregnancy and labour. You should make your midwife aware beforehand to ensure that you have a safe and comfortable delivery. If you are considering an epidural, either for pain relief or for a caesarean section, your anaesthetist will need to know in advance.
Spinal surgery is the only proven way of treating scoliosis and correcting spinal curvature currently, except in the case of young children and some types of smaller curves, where bracing or casting can be useful. Treatments such as physiotherapy and exercise routines can help with pain, improve posture and flexibility, but will not reduce the size of a curve or slow down progression of the curve.
Having scoliosis doesn’t mean that a child cannot undertake sport or PE (physical education). Children, young people and adults should try to keep fit and active to keep the back muscles strong. Always check with a specialist about what sports can be done after correction or during treatment for a spinal curvature.
Having metalwork in your spine will not necessarily set off security detection systems. Even if the detectors do activate, the airport security guards will be able to see your scar and it won’t cause a problem. You do not need a letter from a doctor.
Scoliosis cannot be prevented. It is not caused by carrying heavy school bags or anything a child or parent did or did not do. In most cases scoliosis is idiopathic, which means there is no known cause.
Scoliosis can worsen quickly during adolescence due to the speed of a child's growth. As a parent, it is important not blame yourself for not spotting the curvature sooner. It is likely your child’s scoliosis developed quickly. What may have appeared as a straight spine previously may suddenly have shown signs of curving.
After surgery many people think that they cannot take part in other physical activities activities such as horse riding, sky diving, and contact sports. Most patients will be able to do these things after a time. Seek guidance from your specialist before taking part in such activities.
All surgery carries risk, but paralysis after spinal surgery is extremely rare. Your specialists will assess you before surgery. If your specialist concludes that the risk of surgery is too great, they will not proceed with the operation.
Just because you are diagnosed with scoliosis does not mean you will need to have an operation. If the curve is big or growing quickly, surgery may be recommended. However, many people will only need to have their spine checked regularly to make sure the curve (Cobb Angle) is increasing.

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