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Complications
By Mayo Clinic staffWhile most people with scoliosis have a mild form of the disorder, scoliosis may sometimes cause complications, including:
- Lung and heart damage. In severe scoliosis — a curve greater than 70 degrees — the rib cage may press against the lungs and heart, making it more difficult to breathe and harder for the heart to pump. In very severe scoliosis — a curve greater than 100 degrees — damage to the lungs and the heart can occur. Any time breathing is compromised, the risk of lung infections and pneumonia increases.
- Back problems. Adults who had scoliosis as children are more likely to have chronic back pain than are people in the general population. Also, people with untreated scoliosis may develop arthritis of the spine.
- Body image. Your child might feel isolated and develop a poor body image from the deformity created by scoliosis during childhood and teenage years. As a parent, try to keep your child involved in activities that build confidence. Encourage friendships and normalcy whenever possible.
