What are the common causes of spinal deformities?

Spinal deformity is a type of disease in which the spinal curvature is abnormal due to a variety of reasons. It is necessary to assess whether timely medical intervention is needed based on the specific cause and severity.

The spine is composed of multiple vertebrae and cartilage discs, and normally has a certain physiological curvature. Deformities usually manifest as excessive curvature (such as hunchback), side curvature (such as scoliosis), or loss of physiological curvature, which mostly occurs in the rapid growth stage of adolescents or middle-aged and elderly people.

The causes of spinal deformity can be divided into three categories: congenital, acquired, and functional. For example, congenital spinal malformation and asymmetric growth may show problems from an early age; acquired bad posture, obesity, lack of exercise, or repeated strain can also become "chronic torture"; trauma, osteoporosis, neuromuscular diseases and other disease factors will increase the risk.

The key to prevention and improvement is to develop correct posture habits, such as maintaining the natural curvature of the spine when standing, sitting and sleeping. Parents of adolescents need to closely observe changes in their children's posture. If they find asymmetry or curvature of the back, they should consult an orthopedic or spinal specialist for evaluation as soon as possible to avoid delaying treatment.