Should You Consider Rehabilitation for Thoracic Scoliosis at 18?

Q: Should You Consider Rehabilitation for Thoracic Scoliosis at 18?

Hello Sandy： 1. <br>A thoracic scoliosis of 36 degrees, if accompanied by wheezing or frequent lung infections, may be treated with surgical intervention. <br>If there is also persistent back pain, it is advisable to consult an orthopedic specialist and a rehabilitation physician

Is rehabilitation necessary for thoracic scoliosis?

I am 18 years old.
Last summer, I was diagnosed with a 36-degree scoliosis in the thoracic spine (C-shaped curve to the right).
I usually don't feel anything and don't have pain.
The doctor said it doesn't need to be treated and won't worsen; I only experience shoulder soreness after sitting for a long time.
Previously, I hadn't exercised for a while, and after suddenly running 100 meters, I felt back pain the next day, but it improved later.
Recently, I've been feeling a persistent sensation of something stuck in my throat and often have hiccups.
I frequently experience nasal congestion, and sometimes I take deep breaths, cough, and spit, which seems to help a bit.
These symptoms have been getting worse, especially after sitting for long periods.
I'm unsure if this is related to my scoliosis or if it's psychological.
This year, I started physical therapy, but I felt it wasn't helpful, so I stopped going.
Do you recommend that I continue with physical therapy? What are the benefits and functions of it? What are the potential consequences of not pursuing it? If I ignore it, what could happen in the future? What should I do now?

sandy, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2010/07/28

Dr. Jian Jincheng reply Rehabilitation

Hello Sandy: 1.
A thoracic scoliosis of 36 degrees, if accompanied by wheezing or frequent lung infections, may be treated with surgical intervention.
If there is also persistent back pain, it is advisable to consult an orthopedic specialist and a rehabilitation physician, and to undergo X-rays and a thoracolumbar CT scan to better understand the condition.
2.
For frequent belching, coughing with sputum, it is recommended to visit a pulmonologist for an initial diagnostic X-ray examination, sputum analysis, and culture.
3.
Physical therapy may require a significant amount of time, but improvement is expected; if there are any discomforts, please discuss them with your physician.

Reply Date: 2010/07/28

More Info

At 18 years old, discovering that you have a 36-degree thoracic scoliosis can be concerning, especially when you start experiencing symptoms such as back pain, a sensation of something stuck in your throat, frequent hiccups, and nasal congestion. While your doctor has indicated that your scoliosis is not severe enough to warrant immediate intervention, it is essential to consider the potential benefits of rehabilitation and physical therapy.

Understanding Thoracic Scoliosis:
Thoracic scoliosis is a lateral curvature of the spine that can lead to various complications if left unaddressed. While many individuals with mild scoliosis do not experience significant pain or functional limitations, symptoms can develop over time, particularly if the curvature worsens or if compensatory mechanisms in the body lead to muscle imbalances. Your symptoms of back pain after prolonged sitting and the sensation of a lump in your throat could be related to muscle tension or postural issues stemming from the scoliosis.

Benefits of Rehabilitation:
Engaging in physical therapy or rehabilitation can provide several benefits:
1. Pain Management: Physical therapy can help alleviate pain through targeted exercises that strengthen the muscles supporting your spine, improve flexibility, and promote better posture.

2. Improved Functionality: Rehabilitation can enhance your overall physical function, making daily activities easier and more comfortable. This is particularly important if you are experiencing discomfort during activities like sitting for extended periods.

3. Postural Correction: A physical therapist can teach you techniques to improve your posture, which may help reduce the strain on your back and alleviate some of the symptoms you are experiencing.

4. Preventing Progression: While your current curvature may not require surgical intervention, engaging in rehabilitation may help prevent further progression of the scoliosis and associated complications.

5. Psychological Benefits: Regular physical activity and therapy can also have positive effects on mental health, reducing anxiety and improving overall well-being.

Potential Consequences of Not Seeking Treatment:
If you choose not to pursue rehabilitation, there are potential risks to consider:
1. Worsening Symptoms: Without intervention, your symptoms may worsen over time, leading to chronic pain or discomfort that could impact your quality of life.

2. Functional Limitations: As scoliosis progresses, you may find it increasingly difficult to perform daily activities, which could affect your social life, work, and overall happiness.

3. Psychological Impact: Chronic pain and discomfort can lead to anxiety and depression, particularly if you feel limited in your activities or are concerned about your health.

4. Long-term Complications: In some cases, untreated scoliosis can lead to complications such as respiratory issues or cardiovascular problems due to the impact on thoracic cavity space.

Recommendations:
Given your current symptoms and the potential benefits of rehabilitation, it would be wise to consider returning to physical therapy. A qualified physical therapist can assess your specific situation and develop a tailored program that addresses your needs. Additionally, it may be beneficial to consult with a specialist in scoliosis or a spine specialist who can provide further insights into your condition and discuss any necessary imaging or evaluations.

In summary, while your scoliosis may not currently require surgical intervention, engaging in rehabilitation can provide significant benefits in managing symptoms, improving functionality, and preventing future complications. Taking proactive steps now can lead to a healthier and more active lifestyle as you move forward.

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