When most people think of scoliosis, they associate it with children and teens. However, scoliosis can also develop or progress during adulthood. If you’re an adult living with scoliosis, it’s important to understand the condition and explore treatment options beyond bracing.
What Are Symptoms of Scoliosis?
The spine naturally has curves, but scoliosis causes it to bend sideways in an abnormal C or S shape, typically when the curve exceeds 20 to 25 degrees.
Leg pain caused by pinched nerves is one of the most common symptoms, often accompanied by lower back pain. Some individuals may also notice a loss of height, fatigue, shortness of breath, or a sensation of fullness even without eating. As the condition progresses, patients may start to lean forward or sideways and find it increasingly difficult to stand upright.
However, some adults experience no symptoms at all.
Scoliosis in adults may result from age-related wear and tear on the spine, previous trauma, or even a hereditary condition. While mild scoliosis is common as adults get older, in some cases it can progress and lead to spinal stenosis, or compression of the nerves in the spine.
How Do Doctors Diagnose Scoliosis?
If you’re experiencing any signs of scoliosis, it’s important not to delay seeking medical care. An experienced specialist like the ones at DFW Center for Spinal Disorders will begin with a physical exam and typically order several types of X-rays to confirm the diagnosis.
Scoliosis is diagnosed when the spinal curve measures more than 10 degrees. If breathing issues are present, additional tests may be necessary.
Your physician will also assess how scoliosis affects your daily life. Preserving your ability to enjoy favorite activities is a key part of determining the right treatment approach.
How Is Adult Scoliosis Treated?
The primary goal of a spine specialist is to manage symptoms and prevent the spinal curvature from worsening.
Non-Surgical Treatment Options
Non-surgical treatments may include:
- Physical therapy
- Massage therapy
- Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs)
- Steroid injections for severe pain
- Posture training
- Weight management
- Activity modification
- Chiropractic care
- Acupuncture
Surgical Treatment Options
Spinal surgery carries both risks and potential benefits. If surgery becomes necessary, choosing an experienced surgeon like the ones at DFW Center for Spinal Disorders is essential.
- Decompression fusion may be used for milder cases. This procedure relieves pressure by removing affected nerves or tissue and then fusing the spine to treat spinal stenosis.
- Surgical stabilization is used for more severe curvatures. This involves placing screws and rods along the spine, followed by fusion to stabilize the area.
- Osteotomy involves cutting and realigning spinal bones to correct severe deformities. It’s often combined with spinal fusion for the best outcomes.
Many patients report significant improvements in pain, mobility, and posture after scoliosis surgery.
Scoliosis Treatment in Dallas-Fort Worth
Contact DFW Center for Spinal Disorders if you are experiencing the signs of adult scoliosis.
Sources:
Scoliosis – Treatment in adults – NHS
Adult Scoliosis: Treatment and Success Stories | Brown University Health
