What is Early Onset Scoliosis?

Also known as: EOS, Infantile Scoliosis, Juvenile Scoliosis, Neuromuscular Scoliosis, Syndromic Scoliosis

Scoliosis is a medical condition characterized by the side-to-side curvature of the spine. When scoliosis occurs in children before the age of 10 years old, it is commonly called Early Onset Scoliosis (EOS). The most common types of EOS are infantile scoliosis (children 0-3 years old) and juvenile scoliosis (children 4-10 years old). Less common types include neuromuscular scoliosis, congenital scoliosis, and syndromic scoliosis.

What causes Early Onset Scoliosis?

In most cases, EOS has no clear cause, and isn’t associated with other medical conditions. However, sometimes it can be caused by a problem with the development of the brain or spinal cord, or even be associated with other medical conditions (like in syndromic scoliosis). An MRI can help determine where the brain, spinal cord, or other organs are involved.

What are the symptoms of Early Onset Scoliosis?

The most common symptoms of EOS are changes in physical appearance. This includes: uneven shoulders/shoulder blades, uneven waist, leaning to one side, or uneven hump on the back. In rare cases, patient may have back pain.

How is Early Onset Scoliosis treated?

The first line of treatment for mild cases of EOS is observation. During this time, your doctor monitors your scoliosis to see if the curve is worsening. In moderate cases, bracing or casting may be used to slow down the worsening of the curve. In severe cases, surgery may be required to correct the curve in the spine.

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Reviewed by: Dr. Stephen G George, MD

This page was last updated on: 1/29/2019 3:21:13 PM