Levoscoliosis is a condition where the spine curves to the left in a “C” shape. This curve usually starts in the lumbar region or lower back. Treatments, such as braces or surgery, can help better align the spine.
While the spine is mostly straight, in those with levoscoliosis, the spine appears to take on a hard “C” or “S” shape, leaning to the left.
Whereas scoliosis is a general term that covers all types of spinal curves, levoscoliosis is a specific subtype of scoliosis that involves a left-sided curve. The subtype for a right-sided curve is dextroscoliosis.
An “S” shaped curve will usually curve left at the lower back (lumbar region) and right at the upper back (thoracic region).
This article overviews levoscoliosis, including its causes, complications, diagnosis, and treatment.
Around 80% of people with scoliosis develop the condition without an apparent cause or reason. Doctors call this “idiopathic scoliosis.” Medical conditions, wear and tear, and injury can also cause scoliosis and levoscoliosis.
Types of scoliosis and levoscoliosis with known causes include:
- Congenital scoliosis: This develops when conditions present at birth interfere with the development of the spinal bones and configuration.
- Neuromuscular scoliosis: This occurs when a loss of muscle control or sensation leads to spinal curvature.
- Degenerative scoliosis: This refers to typical wear and tear on the spinal bones and joints that occurs naturally with age.
- Mesenchymal or syndromic scoliosis: This occurs when a more significant syndrome or condition,
such as a spinal tumor, affects the connective tissues and joints that stabilize the spine.
In most children and teenagers, scoliosis is idiopathic, meaning its cause is unknown. However, researchers and doctors believe multiple factors might contribute to its development.
Idiopathic scoliosis typically develops in children ages 11 years and older. It is more common in female children than in male children. The risk of developing scoliosis is higher if a close family member, such as a biological parent or sibling, has the condition.
Currently, researchers do not believe lifestyle habits, such as slouching posture, inactivity, or diet, play any role in developing scoliosis. However, they may worsen symptoms.
The severity of scoliosis depends on the extent of the curve, where it is, and the cause.
Severe scoliosis tends to occur less often, but it can be very painful. Without treatment, this can lead to
Without treatment for moderate and severe forms of scoliosis, resulting potential complications include:
- chronic and often debilitating back and chest pain
- stress, anxiety, and depression
- lung and breathing problems
- rib irregularities and pain
- heart distress and heart failure
- a loss of control or reduced functioning of the bladder and bowels
- a loss of sensation, reduced blood flow, or pain in the arms and legs
To help diagnose levoscoliosis, a doctor will ask a person questions about:
- their personal medical history
- their family medical history
- their symptoms
- what may have caused the curve to develop, such as an injury
They will then perform a physical examination to assess the alignment of the spine, shoulders, and hips and check for pain, numbness and tingling, and muscle weakness. They will also ask the person to bend forward at the waist and let their arms hang by their sides.
Most doctors diagnose levoscoliosis by using imaging tests to determine the angle between the two most misaligned vertebrae, known as the Cobb angle.
Doctors consider a Cobb angle greater than
If the doctor suspects levoscoliosis, they will order an X-ray to confirm the condition and determine the extent of the curve.
Other diagnostic tools they may use to confirm and assess scoliosis include:
The most effective course of treatment will depend on the cause and severity of the scoliosis as well as the person’s health and age.
Some common treatments for scoliosis and levoscoliosis include the following.
Back or underarm brace
Wearing a plastic back brace cannot reverse a spinal curve, but it can help prevent curves from worsening in about 80% of children. Children with spine curvatures of
The brace works by correcting spinal irregularities. As the child grows, the bones, ligaments, and tendons grow and expand in the correct upright position instead of the bent-over position.
Once the bones have stopped growing or repairing themselves, a back brace will no longer be necessary.
Surgery
In severe cases of scoliosis, especially when the spinal curvature might damage organs or interrupt movement, a doctor may perform a spinal fusion to reverse the curve.
In spinal fusion procedures, a surgeon realigns the curved bones and attaches small pieces of bone tissue along the repaired region. When the tissue heals, it forms a single, straightened bone.
The surgeon may also attach a metal rod to the spine after surgery to ensure that the bone remains straight while healing. Most people can walk the day after surgery and return to nonstrenuous activities within 2 to 4
weeks.
Chiropractic treatment
People with levoscoliosis trying to reduce pain and improve flexibility may benefit from visiting a chiropractor.
It is essential to choose a practitioner who specializes in managing scoliosis. Choosing a nonspecialized chiropractor may worsen the symptoms.
Chiropractic treatment cannot cure levoscoliosis, though it can improve a person’s quality of life.
In most instances, people with a minor form of scoliosis do not require treatment, and it is not a sign of a serious underlying medical condition.
However, without treatment, those with more severe cases may experience serious complications, such as chronic pain and reduced organ function.
Wearing a back brace can help stop the progression of spinal curvature in children and adolescents. Surgery may be necessary for adults and adolescents with severe spinal curves.