Osmosis video - Scoliosis: Nursing

Scoliosis is an abnormal lateral curvature of the spine that resembles an S � or C � shape. The cause of scoliosis is usually unknown, but it may result from abnormal intrauterine spine development, as well as from certain diseases like cerebral palsy, muscular dystrophy, spinal cord tumors, and myelomeningocele.

Complications of scoliosis include spinal stenosis, radiculopathies, pinched nerves, cardiac and respiratory compromise, and altered body image that can impact the client's mental health. People with scoliosis can present with asymmetry of the shoulder and hip height and leg discrepancy.

The diagnosis involves the use of a scoliometer to measure spinal rotation, and an x-ray to measure the Cobb's angle. Treatment may include physiotherapy, or surgery such as stapling, body tethering, or spinal fusion. Nursing management focuses on monitoring cardiopulmonary complications, providing supportive care during treatment, and providing psychosocial support.