Scoliosis

Scoliosis is a medical condition whereby a person’s spine curves and/or twists to one side

The twisting can also pull the ribcage out of position.  It can affect people of any age, from babies to adults, although it most often starts in adolescence.  There are a number of reasons why a person might develop scoliosis: congenital scoliosis is a type of scoliosis that a person is born with; however, scoliosis can also be caused by a neuromuscular condition.

Painkilling tablets may help to relieve the pain that can be associated with scoliosis.  Many people with FOP develop scoliosis over time; this can vary from mild to severe.  When a person has scoliosis, the FOP creates additional challenges with regards to treatment options.

Surgical intervention is not usually recommended for people because it often does not fully correct the problem and can lead to severe complications such as flare-ups in other areas.  NO SURGERY to correct scoliosis in a patient with FOP should be carried out unless expert FOP medical advice has been taken.

For more information visit: NHS Scoliosis

If a patient with FOP develops scoliosis, they should consult an expert FOP specialist.

Further information about scoliosis and FOP can be found in the ‘What is FOP? A guidebook for families‘, and the ICC FOP Medical Guidelines also offer further explanation and guidance.