Receiving a diagnosis of scoliosis in adulthood can be overwhelming. Many are left wondering what the future holds and what can be done to effectively manage the condition. Adult scoliosis is more common than one might think. Studies show that scoliosis occurs in about 36% of adults over the age of 60 (McAviney, et al., 2020). To compare, scoliosis is present in up to 5% of adolescents (Konieczny, et al., 2013).
Adult scoliosis is typically classified into two main types: Adolescent Scoliosis in Adulthood (ASA) and Degenerative De-Novo Scoliosis (DDS).
Types of Scoliosis
Adolescent Scoliosis In Adults (ASA)
ASA is scoliosis that has been previously diagnosed, typically in adolescence, and has persisted into adulthood. Idiopathic scoliosis, meaning no known cause, is often diagnosed in the teenage years, but it can be missed and found later in life. ASA may be progressive or stable, depending on the individual case. In those that have been previously diagnosed with scoliosis, it is easy to measure progression by comparing adolescent x-rays to current ones.
Degenerative De-Novo Scoliosis (DDS)
DDS typically develops in adults age 45 or older but becomes more prevalent with age. Degenerative De-Novo Scoliosis is caused by degenerative instability in the spine and is almost always progressive. The main symptom of DDS is low back pain and is typically associated with a single curve in the low back.
Common Signs of Adult Scoliosis
Symptoms of Adult Scoliosis differ from those in adolescents. While children usually do not experience pain, adults often suffer from low back pain caused by spinal compression and instability. Other common signs of adult scoliosis include:
- Postural collapse or changes
- Forward lean or hunch
- Significant loss of height when standing or seated
- Balance issues
- Difficulty with movement
- Quality of life impacts
These symptoms may occur alongside other clinical factors, such as prior surgeries, a family history of scoliosis, menopause, or a diagnosis of osteopenia/osteoporosis. Each of these factors can contribute to the progression of scoliosis and exacerbating its effects.
Early Intervention
If left untreated, scoliosis can result in worsening pain, further spinal degeneration, and the need for more invasive treatment options down the line. Early detection of adult scoliosis is important, and any changes or visual indications should be assessed by a scoliosis clinician. Early intervention can enhance quality of life.
Treatment Options for Adult Scoliosis
At ScoliCare Naples, our goal is to find the right treatment at the right time. We specialize in non-surgical treatment of adult scoliosis using evidence based, patient-centered care to achieve the best treatment outcomes. Scoliosis treatment is not a ‘one size fits all’ approach.
Scoliosis Bracing
Scoliosis bracing may be recommended for adults that have progressive scoliosis, notable asymmetry or spinal instability, and pain or discomfort. At ScoliCare Naples we offer ScoliBrace, which is a truly custom 3D scoliosis brace created using computer aided design and manufacturing (CAD CAM). Evidence shows that using these custom, rigid braces are an effective treatment for adults that can slow progression and provide an alternate treatment to surgical intervention (Palazzo, et al., 2016).
Scoliosis Specific Rehabilitation
Scoliosis-specific exercise programs, like ScoliBalance, aim to improve spinal balance, stabilize the spine, and reduce pain. By focusing on spinal balance, ScoliBalance is effective at reducing back pain in the majority of cases, along with reduced fall risk in older adults. With more flexible curves, an improvement in body appearance may also be achieved. Rehabilitation may be used in combination with bracing for best results.
Regaining Control Over Your Scoliosis
While a diagnosis of adult scoliosis can be overwhelming, ScoliCare Naples is here to help. By being proactive and seeking treatment you can reduce the need for more invasion options, like surgery, down the road.
If you notice changes in yourself or a loved one, don’t wait. Click here to make an appointment or call us at (239) 513-9004 to explore your treatment options.
