SCOLIOSIS AND SPORT

In the course of growth and development, affected by various internal and external factors, various postural disorders may occur, especially in school-age children. Scoliosis is defined as a lateral curvature of the spinal column in the coronal plane, but the disorder actually occurs in three dimensions. The prevalence of scoliosis is from 2% to 3%, and it is the highest in patients in the 12-14 age range, affecting girls more than boys at a ratio of 2:1. Functional scoliosis occurs more frequently than structural scoliosis. Idiopathic scoliosis is structural scoliosis which has no definite cause; it may progress and affect the function of internal organ systems and occurrence of back pain. Annual children’s medical check-ups and early detection of scoliosis are essential for treatment of scoliosis. Treatment depends on the size and progression of the curve, skeletal maturity, scope of physical therapy and observation. The potential association between adolescent idiopathic scoliosis and sports is still insufficiently researched. Young athletes may have spinal deformities which are not related to any sports activity or may be potentially associated with the sport they practise. The International Scientific Society on Scoliosis Orthopaedic and Rehabilitation Treatment has come up with the guidelines for sports activities in children with scoliosis. This association does not recommend sport for treatment of idiopathic scoliosis. Sports activities are recommended due to their specific useful effects in the psychological, neuromuscular and general aspect of health in patients with scoliosis, even in patients during the treatment with spinal orthoses. In patients with a high risk of scoliosis progression, it is recommended to avoid competitive activities with a higher degree of mobility of the spinal column.