Medanta Doctors Offer New Hope to Children with Spinal Deformities

Lucknow : Twelve-year-old Mohini from Gorakhpur was born with a noticeable deformity. The upper part of her body was severely hunched forward, creating a prominent hump on her back that could not be concealed by clothes. This condition not only hindered her mobility but also subjected her to social stigma among her peers. Mohini’s story is a stark reminder that spinal problems are not limited to adults; they are increasingly affecting children and adolescents. However, a new beacon of hope is emerging at Medanta Hospital, Lucknow, where complex spinal surgeries are successfully offering a second chance at a normal life.

According to Dr. Shwetabh Verma, Associate Director of the Department of Orthopedics and Spine Surgery at Medanta Hospital, Lucknow, Mohini’s case involved a complex surgical procedure where a portion of her bone was removed, and rods and screws were inserted to correct the curvature. The surgery was highly successful, reducing her 90-degree curve to less than 40 degrees. She can now live a near-normal life, free from the physical and mental anguish she once faced.

Spinal deformities in children can be either congenital (present from birth) or developmental. Scoliosis refers to an abnormal sideways curvature of the spine, while Kyphosis is the forward rounding of the back, often referred to as a "hunchback." These conditions can impair a child’s ability to walk, stand straight, and maintain balance, negatively impacting their physical health and self-confidence.

Dr. Verma emphasizes the importance of early detection, particularly for children between the ages of 3 and 10, when these issues can be easily missed. Parents should be vigilant and look for warning signs such as a child standing crookedly, a change in their gait, one shoulder being higher than the other, a tilted waist, or a patch of hair or discolored spots on the back. If any of these signs appear, consulting a specialist immediately is crucial for timely diagnosis and intervention.

Dr. Verma shared details of two recent cases of scoliosis and one of kyphosis that were successfully treated. One patient, a 10-year-old girl, had a spine curve that had progressed to 70-80 degrees. The surgery was critical as her deformity was likely to worsen rapidly after she began menstruation. In another case, a 12-13-year-old boy with congenital kyphosis had two fused vertebrae. As he grew, the hump on his back became more pronounced. Following a detailed examination, he underwent surgery where the fused bones were separated and straightened with a rod.

Dr. Verma highlights that spine health is not just about complex surgeries but also about prevention. Modern lifestyles, including heavy school bags and poor study postures in children, and prolonged sitting at computers in adults, are major contributors to spine problems. Lack of exercise and unhealthy eating habits weaken muscles, while sleeping on overly soft mattresses can compromise spinal support.

A healthy spine requires a balanced diet, correct posture, regular exercise, and a healthy lifestyle. Unhealthy, fried foods contribute to weight gain in children, putting extra pressure on the spine and increasing the risk of conditions like sciatica and disc problems later in life. Promoting good habits from a young age is essential to ensure a healthy and active future.