Doctor shares tell-tale sign on child's clothes they might have health condition
Princess Eugenie shone a spotlight on scoliosis on her wedding day when she intentionally chose a dress with a back that would show her scar from surgery.
The royal was diagnosed with scoliosis after displaying signs of the condition, and had an operation when she was just 12 to correct it. But would you be able to spot the giveaway signs? Now, an expert has shared some of the thing to look out for in your children that might signal scoliosis.
Scoliosis is a condition in which a person's spine has an abnormal curve, usually S- or C-shaped. And if you have a child who experiences frequent back pain, or you've noticed a change in their gait or posture, it's something to be aware of.
Dr Tony Nalda, who leads the , shared one particular telltale sign that you might be able to notice on your child's clothes. He explained: "You may observe unexplained changes in how your child's clothes fit - for example, a shirt may hang unevenly or pants legs may appear to be different in length. This can be caused by the misalignment of the spine affecting the body's symmetry."
Below you'll see four other warning signs that could indicate your child has scoliosis, and what you can do about it.
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Uneven Rib Cage, Shoulders, Or Hips
A common indicator of scoliosis is when one shoulder or one side of the rib cage appears more prominent or higher than the other. Uneven hips may also become noticeable, where one appears to be higher or more protruding.
Back And Nerve Pain
Scoliosis manifests as an abnormal curvature of the spine, leading to uneven pressure on the back muscles and spinal nerves, which can result in your child experiencing persistent or intermittent back pain.
The issue can be exacerbated by physical activities (including lifting) or prolonged sitting and standing. Additionally, nerve compression can cause symptoms like tingling, numbness, or weakness in the limbs.
Genetic Disposition
Family histories play a significant role in the development of scoliosis. Studies confirm that individuals with immediate family members diagnosed with scoliosis are more prone to developing the condition, so it’s something to watch out for if you have scoliosis in your family history.
Fatigue During Physical Activities
Some activities, such as standing or sitting for long periods, can lead to fatigue in children with scoliosis. This is due to the extra strain on their back muscles. You may also notice that they more easily become fatigued or uncomfortable during physical activities, such as sports or hikes.
Next Steps: Consulting A Doctor
If you recognise these signs in your child, you need to schedule an appointment with a pediatricians or an orthopedics specialist as soon as possible. The doctor may recommend observation, bracing, or physical therapy, depending on the severity of the scoliosis. In more advanced cases, surgery might be recommended, but there are other options. The sooner a scoliosis curve is reduced, the better long-term outcomes are.
Dr. Nalda says, "Early detection is crucial for effective treatment. While the cause is often unknown, many patients go on to enjoy normal lives."
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