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Untreated Scheuermann's disease: a 37-year follow-up study.
L Ristolainen1, J A Kettunen, M Heliövaara
1ORTON Orthopaedic Hospital and ORTON Research Institute, Helsinki, Finland. leena.ristolainen@orton.fi
Summary
Untreated Scheuermann's disease significantly increases the risk of chronic back pain and daily activity limitations. However, thoracic kyphosis severity did not correlate with pain or quality of life in this long-term study.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedics
- Spinal Disorders
- Radiology
Background:
- Limited long-term follow-up studies exist for untreated Scheuermann's disease.
- Scheuermann's disease is a common spinal condition affecting adolescents.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the long-term outcomes of untreated Scheuermann's disease.
- To investigate the correlation between vertebral changes and clinical symptoms like back pain and disability.
- To compare the health status of Scheuermann's patients with the general population.
Main Methods:
- A 37-year follow-up study involving 80 patients with untreated Scheuermann's disease.
- Radiographic measurements included kyphosis, scoliosis, and vertebral wedge angles.
- Back pain and disability were assessed using questionnaires and compared to a Finnish population sample.
Main Results:
- Scheuermann's patients exhibited a significantly increased risk of constant back pain (OR 2.5) and disability due to back pain.
- Higher risks were observed for back pain in the past 30 days (OR 3.7) and sciatic pain (OR 2.3).
- Patients reported greater difficulties with daily activities like climbing stairs (OR 5.4) and carrying loads (OR 7.2).
Conclusions:
- Untreated Scheuermann's disease is associated with a higher long-term risk of back pain and functional limitations.
- The degree of thoracic kyphosis was not found to be a predictor of back pain, quality of life, or general health in these patients.
