Master Scoliosis with Picmonic for Nursing RN

Scoliosis is characterized by an S-shaped lateral rotation of the thoracic and lumbar spine. The curvature of the thoracic spine causes rib asymmetry.

The S-shaped lateral curvature of the thoracic and lumbar spine affects proper posture. From the back, the patient with scoliosis often presents with unequal shoulder and scapula height. The patient may have asymmetric shoulders, scapulae, and iliac crests.

The S-shaped lateral curvature of the thoracic and lumbar spine affects balance and mobility. The patient with scoliosis may ambulate with an uneven gait caused by an uneven skeletal structure.

Spinal curvature may affect the structure of the chest wall and cause rib asymmetry. Scoliosis may affect the patient's ability to breathe and lead to impaired oxygenation.

Assessment of the patient's spine is critical for diagnosing scoliosis. To determine scoliosis, have the child hook their thumbs together and bend forward while assessing the thoracic and lumbar spine. Scoliosis is present if the patient exhibits a thoracic rib or vertebral muscle hump.

Since they do not correct spinal curve, body braces are indicated to prevent worsening spinal curve progression. The use of braces is reserved for children who are still growing and are not effective for curves greater than 45 degrees. The Boston Brace is a thoraco-lumbo-sacral orthosis (TLSO) indicated to treat curves in the mid- and lower back. The Boston Brace is a customized trunk and pelvic girdle that may be hidden by clothing. The Wilmington Brace is customized orthosis made out of a lightweight plastic material and worn for the majority of the day. The Milwaukee Brace is a cervico-thoracic-lumbo-sacral orthosis that treats curves in the upper back. The Milwaukee Brace consists of a metal structure extending to the neck and cannot be hidden by clothing. If the patient stops wearing the brace, any spinal correction is lost as the curve returns to its original shape.

The body brace is most effective for managing scoliosis when worn 23 hours each day. Although the brace may cause skin irritation or discomfort, failure to wear the brace for the prescribed amount of time may allow the spinal curvature to worsen.

Surgery is reserved for patients lateral spinal curvature beyond 40 degrees. Although surgery may not completely straighten the spine, the procedure helps ensure the curve does not worsen. Metal implants are used to correct the curvature by holding the spine in a straightened position. Surgery often involves spinal fusion, which permanently joins the vertebrae together.

Screening for scoliosis is recommended during adolescence. Shoulder asymmetry and lateral spinal curvature is more apparent during puberty because of growth spurts. Girls should be evaluated between 10-12 years while boys should be evaluated between 13-14 years.