Congenital spinal disorder

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

What causes congenital spine deformities in children?

Medical experts are uncertain what causes the defects responsible for congenital spine deformities. In these disorders, the vertebrae may be:

• Partially formed or misshapen
• Fused together
• Missing

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 Partially formed or misshapen
• Fused together
• Missing