Spine scoliosis and kyphosis

What are spinal problems?

The spine runs from the top of the neck to the tailbone and has 24 vertebrae. Between the vertebrae is cartilage so they do not rub against each other. The spine supports the body and allows you to stand upright and walk. The spine also protects the spinal cord, a bundle of nerves that connects the brain to the rest of the body.

Sometimes problems develop with the spine:

• Scoliosis: during a growth spurt, the spine grows curved to the side in one or two curves

• Kyphosis: the upper part of the spine forms a hump or bulge. This can happen at any age.

A mild curvature usually causes few or no problems, but severe curvatures can cause various problems.

Do I have an increased risk of spinal problems?

Everyone, including people who have never had cancer, can develop spinal problems. However, some conditions and cancer treatments can increase the risk.

The following condition can increase the risk of spinal problems:

• A tumor near or in the spine

The following treatments can increase the risk of spinal problems:

• Surgery on the spine

• Surgery on the chest

• Any dose of radiotherapy to the spine or to an area where the spine is located

You can see in your treatment summary whether you have had this condition and/or one or more of these treatments. If you do not have a summary, you can contact the LATER clinic or the hospital where you were treated. Spinal problems do not always have to be caused by the disease or treatment. There may also be other causes.

What are the symptoms and signs of spinal problems?

Certain symptoms and signs may indicate spinal problems. Even if you do not have these symptoms and signs at the moment, it is important to recognize them in case you ever develop them.

The following symptoms and signs may indicate scoliosis:

• Uneven shoulders, pelvis, or waist

• Leaning to one side

• Back pain (especially in adults)

The following symptoms and signs may indicate kyphosis:

• Abnormally curved or bent upper back

• Back pain or stiffness

• Breathing problems (in severe cases)

If you recognize any of these symptoms or signs in yourself or your child, contact your general practitioner or LATER physician.

I have an increased risk of spinal problems. What tests are necessary and when?

If you or your child have an increased risk of spinal problems, the recommendation is to:

• Have a physical examination of the spine done every year until you or your child have finished growing. Your doctor may recommend doing this more frequently during puberty and growth spurts.

Sometimes an X-ray is needed to confirm or rule out the diagnosis.

What happens if I have spinal problems?

If you have spinal problems, your general practitioner or LATER physician will likely refer you to an:

• Orthopedic surgeon (physician specialized in bones and joints)

• Physiotherapist

They will discuss treatment options with you and can tell you which physical activities are good for you.

What else can I do?

It can be difficult to live with an increased risk of spinal problems. Above all, take good care of yourself. Talking with friends and family can help. Contact with people in a similar situation can also be helpful, for example through a patient association such as VOX, part of the Dutch Childhood Cancer Association.

Although it does not reduce the risk of spinal problems, a healthy lifestyle remains important. Keep moving. Your physiotherapist knows what you can do with your condition. Also take care of your mental health. Small changes can already have a positive impact on your physical and mental wellbeing. Read more about choosing a healthy lifestyle and attention to your mental health.

It is important that you know you have an increased risk of spinal problems and that you recognize the symptoms and signs. If you have questions or are concerned after reading this information, contact your general practitioner or LATER physician.

Where can I find more information?

This LATER website also contains information about:

• Healthy lifestyle

• Mental health

In the PanCare PLAIN Language Summaries you will find links to reliable information in English. You can search for information about spinal problems online, but keep in mind that it is not always up-to-date and accurate.

Disclaimer

This information is based on the PLAIN language summary of the guideline below, created by the PanCare PLAIN Information Group, and has been adapted to the Dutch LATER guideline where necessary. If you experience symptoms and signs, do not rely solely on this information, but consult your general practitioner, LATER physician, or specialist.