Three-dimensional spring model: a new hypothesis of pathogenesis of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis

Med Hypotheses. 2009 Nov;73(5):709-13. doi: 10.1016/j.mehy.2009.02.046. Epub 2009 Jun 3.

Abstract

The pathogenesis of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) has been the subject of many studies, but remains little understood. Previous work has shown that there is a correlation between the uncoupled spinal neuro-osseous growth and AIS. We believe that this uncoupled spinal neuro-osseous growth may also contribute to formation of normal curvature of the spine in the sagittal plane during the childhood. We speculate a three-dimensional spring model to better understand our hypothesis. The normal curvature of the spine, the uncoupled spinal neuro-osseous growth, and the overgrowth of the spine in the puberty may be the crucial factors in the pathogenesis of AIS.

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Humans
  • Models, Theoretical*
  • Radiography
  • Scoliosis / diagnostic imaging
  • Scoliosis / etiology*