Scoliosis is abnormal side-to-side curvature of the spine. While scoliosis is most commonly diagnosed in children and adolescents, adults may develop the condition. When scoliosis strikes in adulthood, it is usually adult degenerative scoliosis, Spinal stenosis, spondylolisthesis, degenerative disc disease, osteoporosis, and compression fractures of the vertebrae are all degenerative conditions that are commonly associated with adult scoliosis.
During the aging process, bones and their surrounding connective tissues weaken and break down. If this occurs in and around the spine , the stack of vertebral bones (vertebral column) can take on an abnormal curve (i.e. scoliosis).
People with scoliosis often notice that their posture has changed. Instead of carrying weight vertically, the upper body may lean to one side. A person with adult degenerative scoliosis may notice that one shoulder is higher than the other in the mirror. As the degeneration progresses, the scoliosis may interfere with the person’s balance and may also influence the way the patient walks. Not surprisingly, adult degenerative scoliosis can cause significant back pain. Other symptoms of the condition include spinal rigidity and stiffness, loss of sensation in the extremities, fatigued muscles, and even respiratory and cardiac issues in severe cases.
Progressive Spine & Orthopaedics specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of adult degenerative scoliosis and other forms of adult-onset scoliosis. Progressive Spine & Orthopaedics offers comprehensive and personalized treatment plans for adults suffering from degenerative scoliosis. As no single treatment suits every patient, our team considers each patient’s situation and circumstances on a case-by-case basis. We are confident that we can find a treatment solution that fits your needs. While Dr. Rovner is an orthopaedic surgeon.
Surgery may not always be the right treatment for adult degenerative scoliosis. Your treatment plan may include pain medication and management, physical therapy, and back braces as viable options. Severe adult scoliosis, such as disease that interferes with breathing or normal daily activities, may require a surgical solution, however.