Scoliosis

The spine is designed to appear straight when viewed from behind. In patients with scoliosis, the spine develops an abnormal side-to-side curvature that may create an “S” or “C” shape.

The severity of scoliosis varies widely. Some patients require only periodic monitoring, while others benefit from physical therapy, bracing, or surgical treatment. At Fox Valley Orthopedics, we provide personalized care plans based on the patient’s age, symptoms, degree of curvature, and risk of progression.

What Is Scoliosis?

Scoliosis is a condition in which the spine curves abnormally to the side. In some cases, the spine may also rotate, causing the ribs, shoulders, or hips to appear uneven.

Scoliosis can affect:

• Children
• Adolescents
• Adults
• Older adults with degenerative spine conditions

While many patients have mild curves, larger curves may continue to progress and affect posture, movement, and overall spinal health.

What Types of Scoliosis Are There?

Several forms of scoliosis can occur.

Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis

This is the most common form of scoliosis and typically develops during adolescence. The exact cause is unknown.

Adult Degenerative Scoliosis

Adult scoliosis develops as age-related changes affect the discs and joints of the spine, leading to curvature over time.

Congenital Scoliosis

Congenital scoliosis is present at birth and results from abnormal spinal development before birth.

Neuromuscular Scoliosis

This type develops as a result of underlying neurological or muscular conditions that affect spinal support and alignment.

What Causes Scoliosis?

The cause of scoliosis depends on the specific type.

Potential causes and contributing factors include:

• Genetics
• Congenital spinal abnormalities
• Neuromuscular conditions
• Degenerative disc disease
• Spine arthritis
• Age-related spinal degeneration
• Connective tissue disorders

In many adolescent cases, no specific cause can be identified.

What Are the Symptoms of Scoliosis?

Symptoms vary depending on the severity of the curve and the patient’s age.

Common signs and symptoms include:

• Uneven shoulders
• Uneven hips
• Prominent shoulder blade
• Visible spinal curvature
• Back pain
• Muscle fatigue
• Poor posture
• Difficulty standing upright
• Reduced range of motion
• Changes in balance

Many patients with mild scoliosis experience few or no symptoms.

How Is Scoliosis Diagnosed?

Diagnosing scoliosis begins with a comprehensive spine evaluation.

Diagnostic evaluation may include:

• Review of symptoms and medical history
• Physical examination
• Postural assessment
• Neurological evaluation
• X-rays
• Measurement of spinal curvature
• MRI imaging when appropriate
• CT scans in select cases

Imaging studies help determine the severity of the curve and whether progression is occurring.

How Is Scoliosis Treated?

Treatment depends on the patient’s age, symptoms, curve severity, and risk of progression.

What Nonsurgical Treatments Are Available for Scoliosis?

Many patients successfully manage scoliosis without surgery.

Nonsurgical treatment options may include:

• Observation and monitoring
• Physical therapy
• Scoliosis-specific exercises
• Postural training
• Bracing
• Activity modification
• Pain management strategies

Children and adolescents with growing spines may benefit from bracing to help slow curve progression.

When Is Surgery Recommended for Scoliosis?

Surgery may be recommended when:

• The spinal curve continues to worsen
• Significant deformity develops
• Chronic pain persists
• Conservative treatments fail
• Daily activities become limited
• Spinal balance is significantly affected

Surgical treatment often involves spinal fusion and stabilization techniques designed to correct the curve and prevent further progression.

What Does Scoliosis Recovery Look Like?

Recovery varies depending on the treatment selected.

Patients treated nonoperatively often continue with:

• Regular monitoring
• Exercise programs
• Physical therapy
• Activity modifications as needed

Following surgery, recovery may include:

• Physical therapy
• Walking programs
• Strengthening exercises
• Activity restrictions during healing
• Gradual return to school, work, sports, and recreation

Recovery timelines depend on the patient’s age, curve severity, and overall health.

What Complications Can Occur if Scoliosis Is Left Untreated?

Without treatment or monitoring, some spinal curves may progress over time.

Potential complications include:

• Chronic back pain
• Progressive spinal deformity
• Reduced mobility
• Postural imbalance
• Decreased physical function
• Difficulty with daily activities
• Reduced quality of life

Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment can help manage symptoms and reduce the risk of progression.

Get Expert Scoliosis Care at Fox Valley Orthopedics

Scoliosis can affect posture, mobility, comfort, and overall quality of life. At Fox Valley Orthopedics, our experienced spine specialists provide comprehensive care for scoliosis, including advanced diagnostics, monitoring programs, physical therapy recommendations, bracing options, and surgical treatment when necessary.

Whether your treatment involves observation, exercise, bracing, pain management, or surgery, our team is committed to helping you maintain spinal health and stay active. If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with scoliosis, schedule an appointment with Fox Valley Orthopedics today by calling (855) 386-7846 to discuss your treatment options and create a personalized care plan.