• Chu ECP
• Huang KHK
• Shum JSF

• Adolescent
• Female
• Lumbar Vertebrae / abnormalities
• Male
• Manipulation, Chiropractic
• Nervous System Malformations
• Open Access Document
• Scoliosis

Lumbosacral transitional vertebrae (LSTVs) are the most common congenital anomaly of the lumbosacral spine that presents either as L5 sacralisation or S1 lumbarisation. Although most of the LSTVs are of minor clinical importance, these anomalies may contribute to disruptions in biomechanics and alterations in spinal and paraspinal structures. Here, we present two cases of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis to illustrate some overlooked effects of a unilateral LSTV on spinal deformity. Cure correction was not attained in both cases. While a unilateral LSTV was on a different side of their lumbosacral spine, it is incidentally noticed that the direction of the curve was convex on the contralateral side of the LSTV. Most likely, unilateral LSTVs on certain occasions could cause the growing spine to curve and rotate. The aim of this report is to demonstrate an overlooked association between minor anomalies and the growing spines, which may be important to tailor an appropriate treatment plan.

Author keywords:  Adolescent idiopathic scoliosis - Congenital anomaly - Lumbosacral transitional vertebra - Chiropractic adjustment - Vertebral adjustment

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