Adult DeNovo Degenerative Scoliosis: Causes, Symptoms and Treatment Options

Most people think Scoliosis is a problem only seen in kids, but in reality, most cases of Scoliosis in Arizona are in adults. Adult-Onset DeNovo Scoliosis refers to scoliosis that appears in adulthood, usually after the age of 40. Adult-onset scoliosis is usually brought on by degenerative changes in the spine.
This article will cover the causes, symptoms, diagnosis and treatment options for adult-onset scoliosis. It should help people in Arizona understand their condition and the treatment available to help them.

Adult Onset DeNovo Scoliosis what is it?

Adult-Onset Scoliosis is a sideways curvature in the spine that develops in adulthood most times after the age of 40. It differs from scoliosis in children as it comes on due to degeneration in the spine, or osteoporosis or age-related postural collapse.

DeNovo Scoliosis progresses due to structural deterioration in the spine related to the degeneration of the spinal discs and facet joints that lead to spinal imbalance and a scoliosis curvature.

What are the causes of Adult-Onset DeNovo Scoliosis

1. Spinal degeneration of discs between the vertebra or the joints that connect the spine together leading to imbalance in the alignment of the spine. This can lead to a gradual curve that worsens over time.
2. Osteoporosis weakens the bones and can lead to fractures and collapse of the vertebra in the spine. This can lead to curvatures in the spine. In severe cases multiple fractures can produce a noticeable bending in the spine.
3. Spinal Stenosis is a narrowing of the spinal canal due to arthritic changes in the joints in the spine. This can compress nerves that may lead to postural changes and scoliosis as the body tries to relieve the nerve tension.
4. Muscular Imbalance and Weakness in the muscles that support the spine as we age. This can lead to instability in the spine and subsequent bending of the column leading to scoliosis
5. Previous Spine Surgeries and Injuries can lead to unstable joints and spinal curvature especially if there is a lot of arthritis present

Symptoms of Adult-Onset DeNovo Scoliosis

These are the most commonly treated symptoms in DeNovo Scoliosis:

• Lower back pain- caused by muscles that are under too much strain, joints that are under too much load or nerves that are irritated or pinched.
• Uneven Posture- Unlevel shoulders, hips that look off or a waist that looks flat or too bent and a pronounced forward lean are all postural signs of scoliosis
• Leg Pain and weakness (Sciatica) -scoliosis can compress spinal nerves leading to pain down the back of the legs or numbness and tingling
• Difficulty Standing upright- forward leaning posture or trouble keeping your balance
• Reduced ability to move around- stiff joints and discomfort when bending or twisting
• Breathing Problems (in severe cases)- if the scoliosis gets extreme, it can affect the functioning of the lungs

Diagnosing Adult-Onset De Novo Scoliosis

Proper Diagnosis of DeNovo Scoliosis requires a combination of:

• Physical examination- Looking at the posture, spinal range of motion, muscle strength, neurological exams and Adams Forward bending test
• X-rays- Confirming if a scoliosis curve is present and allowing the Doctor to measure a Cobb angle to determine the degree of curvature
• MRI or CT scans- can also help in the diagnosis of nerve compression, spinal stenosis and other structural problems
• Bone density test – If osteoporosis is suspected as a cause of the scoliosis

Treatment Options for Adult-Onset De Novo Scoliosis in Arizona

Treatments vary depending on the level of pain, symptoms and the degree of the scoliosis. Options range from non-surgical approaches to surgical intervention for severe cases.

1. Non-Surgical Treatments (First line Treatment) – Most patients with mild to moderate scoliosis curves do not require surgery and can be managed with:

• Scoliosis Specific Exercise Programs in Arizona designed to teach scoliosis patients how to correct their own spine and then strengthen them in that position and then help them integrate these new positions into daily life. At ScoliCare we offer an SSEP called ScoliBalance. ScoliBalance helps to bring balance back to the spine.
• Scoliosis Bracing in Arizona- research has shown that on average a DeNovo scoliosis will progress about 1.5 degrees per year. Custom made scoliosis braces like a ScoliBrace have been shown to reduce that progression to .25 degrees per year, which is an 83% slowing of curve progression. ScoliBrace is a custom made TLSO brace that help Adult Onset DeNovo scoliosis patients to stay stable and relieve spinal pain.
• Pain Management- over the counter pain killers or steroid injections can be used for inflammation
• Lifestyle Modifications- Maintaining a healthy weight and exercising to keep the posture strong and the cardio vascular endurance up helps a lot.

2. Minimally Invasive Procedures – Patients with significant nerve pain or spinal stenosis may be recommended :

• Epidural injections to reduce the inflammation around the nerves
• Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA)- to burn the problem nerves and block the pain

3. Surgical Treatment in severe cases – Surgery is reserved for those patients with:

• Severe pain that has failed to respond to conservative treatment   methods
• Progressive spinal deformity
• Significant nerve compression that affects mobility

Conclusion

Adult Onset DeNovo Scoliosis in Arizona is a progressive condition that develops due to degenerative changes in the spine. It can cause pain and mobility challenges, early intervention with ScoliBalance therapy, lifestyle modifications and 3D Custom scoliosis bracing like a ScoliBrace can help to maintain spinal function and quality of life.

Taking the First Step

If you or a loved one in Arizona, Phoenix, Gilbert, Chandler, Mesa, Glendale, Peoria are dealing with Adult Onset DeNovo Scoliosis please contact ScoliCare East Phoenix for proper diagnosis and a custom-tailored treatment plan. With the right care, individuals can lead an active and fulfilling life despite having Adult Onset DeNovo Scoliosis.

To learn more about scoliosis treatment in East Phoenix click the link below to request a free discovery call or download a free eBook on adult scoliosis.