Can people with scoliosis receive the COVID-19 vaccine?
Sep 22, 2022
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Guo Xiheng
Introduction
Whether individuals with scoliosis can receive the COVID-19 vaccine depends on their specific condition. In general, they can be vaccinated. If a patient's scoliosis is in a stable phase, routine vaccination is acceptable. However, if the scoliosis is in an active phase, careful consideration should be given before vaccination. Adverse reactions may occur after vaccination, but most can be effectively managed through symptomatic treatment and observation.
Whether individuals with scoliosis can receive the COVID-19 vaccine depends on their specific condition, but in general, vaccination is possible. If a patient's scoliosis is in a stable phase, they can normally receive the COVID-19 vaccine. However, if the scoliosis is in an active or progressive stage, careful consideration should be given before vaccination. Adverse reactions may occur after vaccination, but most can be effectively managed through symptomatic treatment and observation.
Scoliosis refers to a spinal deformity characterized by lateral curvature of the spine—meaning one or more segments of the spine curve sideways, forming a curved shape, sometimes accompanied by vertebral rotation. It may be caused by inflammation, intervertebral disc herniation, tumors, or other factors. In early stages, the deformity may not be obvious and symptoms may be absent. As the condition progresses, signs such as uneven shoulders, asymmetrical chest wall, back pain, difficulty standing or walking, limping, and limb weakness may appear in some patients.
If a patient is undergoing surgery for scoliosis or is in the acute phase of surgical or medical treatment, COVID-19 vaccination can be temporarily postponed. Since scoliosis surgery is considered a major operation involving significant blood loss, substantial surgical trauma, and a prolonged recovery period, vaccination should be avoided during this time. This helps prevent potential interference between medications used during treatment and the vaccine’s efficacy, and reduces the risk of overlapping adverse effects that could lead to coincidental reactions and discomfort for the patient. Vaccination can generally be considered approximately 1 to 3 months after surgical recovery, depending on the individual's health status.
Scoliosis is classified as a chronic condition, and patients with this condition are generally eligible for COVID-19 vaccination. The vaccine does not worsen scoliosis symptoms nor does it compromise the effectiveness of the vaccine.
