Frequently Asked Questions About Scoliosis
Q: What is adult scoliosis?
A: Adult scoliosis refers to an abnormal curvature of the spine that develops or is identified in adulthood. It may result from untreated adolescent idiopathic scoliosis, age-related degeneration of the spine, or conditions such as osteoporosis.
Q: What are the symptoms of adult scoliosis?
A: Common symptoms include:
Uneven shoulders or hips
Visible curvature of the spine
Back pain or discomfort
Muscle fatigue
Postural changes
Reduced flexibility or range of motion
Q: How is adult scoliosis diagnosed?
A: Diagnosis typically involves a physical examination to assess spinal alignment and posture. Imaging tests such as X-rays, MRIs, or CT scans are often used to determine the severity of the curvature and identify any related issues.
Q: What causes adult scoliosis?
A: Potential causes include:
The progression of undiagnosed or untreated adolescent idiopathic scoliosis.
Age-related spinal degeneration, including arthritis or disc wear.
Bone-weakening conditions like osteoporosis.
Neuromuscular disorders that affect spinal alignment and muscle control.
Q: Can adult scoliosis be treated non-surgically?
A: Yes, non-surgical options such as physical therapy, pain management, bracing, and tailored exercise programs can effectively relieve symptoms, enhance strength and flexibility, and improve quality of life.
Q: When is surgery recommended for adult scoliosis?
A: Surgery may be considered when:
The spinal curve exceeds 50 degrees, causing significant discomfort or functional limitations.
Non-surgical treatments fail to provide sufficient relief.
Complications such as respiratory issues or spinal instability arise.
Q: What types of physical therapy work for adult scoliosis?
A: Physical therapy approaches may include:
Strengthening exercises to support the spine and improve posture.
Stretching routines to enhance flexibility.
Manual therapy for pain relief and better spinal alignment.
Postural training to promote healthier movement habits.
Q: Can adult scoliosis worsen over time?
A: Yes, scoliosis can progress, particularly without treatment. Regular monitoring and non-surgical interventions can help control symptoms and slow the progression.
Q: How can I manage pain caused by adult scoliosis?
A: Pain management strategies include:
Physical therapy to enhance strength and mobility.
Using heat or cold therapy alongside over-the-counter pain medications.
Incorporating lifestyle changes like regular exercise, weight management, and ergonomic adjustments.
Q: Can adults with scoliosis live a normal life?
A: Absolutely! Many adults with scoliosis maintain active and fulfilling lives. While some may encounter discomfort, proper treatment and self-care can help manage symptoms and improve overall well-being.
If you are suffering from Scoliosis or Kyphosis in Oman, don’t wait for the condition to worsen. Contact CBP Precision Spine Center today to schedule your free initial consultation with our CBP® Advanced Certified/Scoli-Care Scoliosis Specialist.
Q: What causes scoliosis?
A: Scoliosis can arise from various causes. While most cases (80-85%) are idiopathic, meaning their cause is unknown, some are congenital, developing due to vertebral anomalies in the womb. Others are neuromuscular, resulting from conditions like cerebral palsy or muscular dystrophy that affect muscles and nerves supporting the spine
Q: Can scoliosis be prevented?
A: Currently, there is no known way to prevent scoliosis, especially idiopathic scoliosis, which is thought to be largely influenced by genetic factors. Lifestyle factors such as carrying heavy backpacks or participating in sports do not cause scoliosis
Q: What are common symptoms of scoliosis?
A: Symptoms vary depending on the type of scoliosis but generally include uneven shoulders, a prominent rib on one side, uneven waist, and one hip higher than the other. Neuromuscular scoliosis can also involve symptoms like poor balance and coordination due to the underlying neuromuscular condition
Q: How is scoliosis diagnosed?
A: Scoliosis is commonly screened for using the forward bend test, where a healthcare provider checks for any prominent ribs or lumbar asymmetry when the patient bends forward. This is often supplemented by using a scoliometer or Moiré topography to measure trunk rotation
Q: What treatments are available for scoliosis?
A: Treatment depends on the severity and type of scoliosis but generally includes bracing for milder cases to prevent progression and surgery for severe cases (typically curves greater than 40 degrees). Non-surgical treatments like physical therapy and specific exercises are also used to manage symptoms and improve functionality
Q: Does treating scoliosis make you taller?
A: In some cases, treating scoliosis can result in a slight increase in height if the spinal curvature is significantly reduced through interventions like bracing or surgery