Causes of Scoliosis in Adults
Scoliosis in adults can be the result of undiagnosed or untreated scoliosis during childhood. However, it can also develop in adulthood due to age-related degeneration of the spine, or as a result of other medical conditions.
Degenerative Scoliosis
Degenerative scoliosis is a type of scoliosis that develops in adulthood, usually starting at age 40. It occurs when the intervertebral discs and facet joints in the spine begin to wear away, which can lead to abnormal curvature of the spine.
Idiopathic Scoliosis of the Adult
Adult idiopathic scoliosis is a type of scoliosis that develops without a known cause. Although it may be a continuation of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis, it can also appear in adults with no history of scoliosis during adolescence.
Scoliosis secondary to other medical conditions
Scoliosis can be caused by other medical conditions, such as cerebral palsy, muscular dystrophy, ankylosing spondylitis, or osteoporosis. In these cases, scoliosis is considered a complication of the underlying medical condition.
Symptoms of Scoliosis in Adults
The symptoms of scoliosis in adults can vary depending on the severity of the curvature of the spine. Some adults may not experience any symptoms, while others may have back pain, fatigue, shortness of breath, an unbalanced appearance with one shoulder or hip higher than the other, and a decrease in height.
Diagnosis of Scoliosis in Adults
Diagnosing scoliosis in adults usually involves a physical exam and imaging tests, such as X-rays, to evaluate the curvature of the spine. In some cases, additional tests may also be done to rule out other medical conditions that may be causing the curvature.
Treatments for Scoliosis in Adults
Treatments may include conservative approaches, such as physical therapy, strengthening exercises, pain medication, and the use of orthopedic braces. In more severe cases, surgery may be necessary.
Conservative Treatments
Treatment for a spine sprain can vary depending on the severity of the sprain and the patient’s individual needs.
Physical Therapy and Strengthening Exercises
Pain Medication
Pain medication, such as over-the-counter pain relievers or prescription medications, is a helpful resource for relieving back pain associated with scoliosis.
Wearing Orthopedic Corsets
In some cases, it is advisable to wear an orthopedic brace to help prevent the advancement of the curvature of the spine. However, it is important to clarify that corsets cannot correct existing curvatures.
Surgical Options
Vertebra Fusion Surgery
Spinal fusion surgery is a procedure in which two or more vertebrae are joined together to prevent movement and stabilize the spine. This procedure is used to help relieve pain and prevent the curve from progressing.
Osteotomy for Curvature Correction
Osteotomy is an intervention in which a portion of bone is removed to allow correction of the curvature of the spine.
Neurological Decompression
Neurological decompression is used in certain cases to relieve pressure on spinal nerves that may be compressed due to scoliosis, helping to minimize the intensity of symptoms such as pain and weakness.
