Condition

Pediatric Congenital Spine Deformities

Congenital spine deformities are disorders of the spine that develop in a child before birth. The vertebrae don’t form properly very early in fetal development, causing structural problems in the spine and spinal cord.

These deformities can range from mild to severe, and may cause other problems if untreated, such as:

Developmental problems with the heart, kidneys or urinary tract
Paraplegia (paralysis of the legs and lower body)
Problems with breathing or walking

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Frequently Asked Questions

What causes congenital spine deformities in children?

What are the types of congenital spine deformities in children?

What are the symptoms of congenital spine deformities in children?

Pediatricians can often detect spine deformities at birth if there is any abnormal curvature in the back. Sometimes, these deformities may not be noticed until later childhood or adolescence, when symptoms worsen. Physical signs of congenital spine deformities include:

Abnormal curvature or twisting in the back, to either side, forward or backward
Uneven shoulders, waistline, hips or legs
Tilted pelvis
Difficulty walking
Difficulty breathing

How are congenital spine deformities diagnosed in children?

How are congenital spine deformities treated in children?

Treatment usually focuses on preventing congenital spine deformities from getting worse, rather than correcting them. Depending on the type and severity of your child’s condition, the pediatrician may recommend one or more of the following treatment options:

Back braces or casts in mild cases of scoliosis to prevent spine curvatures from worsening
Surgery for kyphosis and lordosis to improve spine alignment

Learn more about our Spine Program at Children’s National Hospital.