June is Scoliosis Awareness Month – an opportunity to reflect on how spinal curvature presents and evolves throughout the life span.
At our clinics, we support both adolescent and adult patients with scoliosis. While the underlying diagnosis may be similar, treatment goals, clinical strategies, and outcomes differ significantly by age. Here’s a concise clinical comparison for healthcare professionals involved in scoliosis care.
In Adolescents: Focus on Growth & Curve Progression
The most common presentation in teens is Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis (AIS). While some cases are identified through routine school or pediatric screenings, many are first noticed by families observing asymmetry in posture, shoulder height, or waist contour.
AIS is often painless, though some adolescents report discomfort. Management is primarily guided by curve magnitude and skeletal maturity, with the goal of preventing progression during growth and curve correction where possible.
Key clinical considerations:
- Curves <25°: Early-stage curves may benefit from scoliosis-specific exercise (PSSE) programs such ScoliBalance®
- Curves 25–45°: Bracing with an overcorrective 3D custom brace, such as ScoliBrace®, is recommended for skeletally immature patients to slow progression and reduce surgical risk. Bracing should also be combined with PSSE (ScoliBalance).
- Curves >45°: Consider referral for surgical evaluation, especially near skeletal maturity.
Timely diagnosis and consistent follow-up are essential for guiding non-invasive care and optimizing long-term outcomes.
In Adults: Symptom Management and Function Take Priority
Adult scoliosis may represent the progression of previously diagnosed AIS or develop de novo due to degenerative spinal changes.
Adult scoliosis may result from progressive AIS or develop de novo due to degenerative changes.
Common clinical presentations:
- Chronic back or leg pain
- Functional limitations
- Postural imbalance or collapse
Management priorities focus on relieving symptoms and maintaining function:
- Structured scoliosis-specific rehabilitation, such as ScoliBalance®, for posture and mobility
- Pain management strategies
- Custom bracing for support, not correction – adult braces should address pain, postural control and prevention of falls, and mechanical stability
- Surgical consideration in cases of significant pain, neurologic symptoms, or failed conservative care
Treatment planning should also consider bone density, spinal alignment, and comorbidities.
Clinical Takeaway
Although scoliosis is often associated with adolescence, treatment goals evolve with age. Adolescent care focuses on curve control and growth management; adult care prioritizes pain reduction, function, and quality of life.
Understanding these distinctions supports better referral decisions, interdisciplinary coordination, and patient outcomes.
Consultation and Referral Support
If you’re managing a patient with scoliosis – whether newly diagnosed, progressing, or presenting with pain or neurologic symptoms – we’re available for consultation, evaluation, or second opinion.
Our Free X-Ray Review Service is available to healthcare professionals seeking input or support in complex cases.
