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Adult scoliosis - What You Need to Know

When curvature is too great, there are a variety of surgical options that your spinal surgeon will discuss with you. Here you will come to know the symptoms & treatment of Adult scoliosis.

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Adult scoliosis - What You Need to Know

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  1. Adult Scoliosis

  2. What You Need to Know When it comes to your spine, there are good curves and bad curves. The normal spine has three subtle natural curves that provide needed support for the body. However, some spines have abnormal curves to one side or the other or a twist in the alignment of the vertebrae. Scoliosis is the name for such curving or twisting.

  3. Types of Adult Scoliosis Some people are born with scoliosis. Some children develop scoliosis as they grow and there are some broader medical syndromes that may include scoliosis. There are also two types of scoliosis that develop in adults. • Adult Idiopathic Scoliosis • Adult Degenerative Scoliosis

  4. Adult Idiopathic Scoliosis • Adult Degenerative Scoliosis Degenerative scoliosis is the formation of abnormal curves in the spine when processes such as arthritis or disc compression cause the spine to lose its normal healthy alignment. Idiopathic means the cause of the curvature is unknown. It is difficult to ascertain when and why the curvature developed. Patients may first notice it if they see certain signs in the mirror or in the way their clothes fit. For example, one shoulder or one side of your waist may be noticeably higher than the other.

  5. If you have any scoliosis symptoms it's important to get your back evaluated as soon as possible. Early diagnosis and intervention may help you strengthen your spine and prevent the curve from progressing further. With either type of adult scoliosis, your symptoms may include: • • Pain or stiffness in the back or even in the joints of your hips and legs as the rest of your body tries to compensate for the curvature • • Shooting pain down your legs • • Numbness • You may also notice that you are just feeling more fatigued at your usual activity levels.

  6. Diagnosis Your doctor will ask you about your symptoms and observe your back carefully. Imaging tests such as a standing X-ray or MRI will help confirm the diagnosis and establish the degree of curvature. If there is any degree of curvature, your doctor will monitor it over time to detect any progression.

  7. Treatment Mild cases can be treated with over the counter pain medications, back braces, and exercises to strengthen your core muscles. While narcotic painkillers can help if the pain is more severe, they can become addicting. Implanted nerve stimulators or surgery might be a better option for you at that point. When curvature is too great, there are a variety of surgical options that your spinal surgeon will discuss with you so that you can weigh the pros and cons for your particular situation.

  8. Doctor Hyun W. Bae MD

  9. The Spine Institute For more details visit: http://www.laspine.com

  10. Address 2811 Wilshire Blvd, #850, Santa Monica CA, 90403 Phone:(310) 828-7757 Office Hours Monday – Friday: 8:00am – 4:30pm (office closes at 4:00pm on Fridays)

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