Episode 98: Does Scoliosis Make You Shorter and Affect Your Height?

Scoliosis, a progressive structural spinal condition, raises questions about its potential impact on a person's height. In this episode, Dr. Tony Nalda, sheds light on the connection between scoliosis and height, understanding the nuances of spinal anatomy and the factors that contribute to height loss.

Understanding Scoliosis and Its Development
Scoliosis is characterized by unnatural sideways curvature of the spine, accompanied by a rotational component. For a diagnosis, the Cobb angle, measuring the degree of curvature, must be 10 degrees or greater. The condition is progressive and can affect various systems within the body, not just the spine.

The Relationship Between Spinal Anatomy and Height
The spine's natural curves aid in maintaining balance and stability. The symmetrical curves in the neck, mid-back, and lower back contribute to the body's ability to withstand compressive forces, allowing us to stand upright with good posture. Disruptions to these healthy curvatures can impact the distance between the pelvis and the skull, potentially affecting a person's standing height.
Measuring Scoliosis Severity

To gauge the severity of scoliosis, X-rays, particularly with the Cobb angle measurement, provide crucial insights. Different degrees of curvature categorize scoliosis:

1. Mild Scoliosis - 10-25 degrees
2. Moderate Scoliosis - 25-40 degrees
3. Severe Scoliosis - 40-80 degrees
4. Very Severe Scoliosis - Over 80 degrees

Impact on Height and Variable Factors
As scoliosis progresses, the potential for height loss increases. The larger the curvature, the more likely it is to affect the height of the trunk. However, scoliosis is highly variable, and its impact on height is influenced by various factors.

Different Types of Scoliosis and Their Effects

1. Idiopathic Scoliosis - Unknown cause, affecting individuals differently
2. Neuromuscular Cases - Variable impact on height due to different neuromuscular conditions
3. Congenital Scoliosis - Malformed bones from birth, potentially affecting height
4. Degenerative Scoliosis - Developing scoliosis in later stages of life, particularly in the lumbar spine
5. Traumatic Scoliosis - Resulting from trauma, contributing to potential height loss

Regardless of the time of diagnosis, scoliosis can impact height, especially when left untreated. It is important to be proactive in treating scoliosis to minimize potential height loss. Treating smaller curves is less likely to affect height compared to severe curves. For those with existing severe curves, restoring height involves reducing the size of the curve, minimizing the impact on overall health and well-being.

Understanding the intricate relationship between scoliosis and height is crucial for those affected by this condition. To explore this topic further, tune in to Dr. Nalda's podcast for additional insights and information on customized treatment plans for scoliosis.

Artlist.io 847544

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Subscribe: RSS