Scoliosis is estimated to affect approximately 2-3% of the general population and is characterized by an abnormal curvature of the spine. While a typical spine curves forward-to-back, a spine affected by scoliosis curves side-to-side, often creating a distinctive “s” shape and causing pain, postural imbalances, and other symptoms that can range from mild to severe.
Scoliosis can develop at any stage of life but is most commonly diagnosed in early adolescence between the ages of 10 and 15. In many cases, symptoms are mild or even non-existent and treatment may involve conservative approaches aimed at preventing the condition from worsening over time. In severe cases, surgical treatment options may be recommended.
At the New Jersey Spine Institute, our leading team of award-winning spine specialists possesses the expertise and experience to accurately diagnose and treat all types of scoliosis. Whether you’re seeking an evaluation and recommendations for your child’s spine or your own, we will work with you to develop a customized treatment plan and move you forward on the journey toward optimal spine health.
To learn more about scoliosis treatment at the New Jersey Spine Institute, contact our clinic today to book an initial consultation!
What Is Scoliosis?
Scoliosis is classified as an unnatural curvature of the spine that can affect the upper, mid, or lower back. The condition can cause the spine to round off to one side and curve back toward the middle of the back, often resembling an “s” shape. In turn, this deformity can result in back pain, uneven posture, and even breathing difficulties in the most serious cases.
Scoliosis is frequently discovered once a child hits their “growth spurt” during their adolescent years, but it can also occur in infants, children, and adults of any age. The condition is often mild and can be effectively treated using conservative methods, but more severe cases may be most responsive to a surgical treatment approach.
Some people have mild scoliosis their whole lives without experiencing pain, discomfort, or other symptoms. However, patients living with scoliosis should be monitored by a physician at regular intervals to determine whether or not the condition is progressing.
Forms Of Scoliosis
Scoliosis may develop on its own or in combination with other conditions. At the New Jersey Spine Institute, we treat all types of scoliosis, including the following:
Idiopathic Scoliosis
Idiopathic scoliosis is the most common form of scoliosis and is usually sudden onset, most often during adolescence. The likelihood of the curvature of the spine is more common with idiopathic scoliosis. The term idiopathic simply means that the cause of this type of scoliosis is unknown.
Degenerative Scoliosis
Degenerative scoliosis is most common in older adults and is related to the ongoing deterioration of the spinal joints. It primarily impacts the lumbar spine (lower back) and is often diagnosed in combination with other conditions such as pinched nerves and/or spinal stenosis.
Neuromuscular Scoliosis
Neuromuscular scoliosis is characterized by abnormalities in the muscles and/or nerves that surround and support the vertebral column. It is frequently diagnosed in conjunction with other conditions or diseases including cerebral palsy, spina bifida, or muscular dystrophy. Neuromuscular scoliosis can also result from trauma to the spinal cord.
Congenital Scoliosis
This form of scoliosis is caused by the abnormal formation of vertebrae during the embryonic stage of development. There does not seem to be any genetic link and the cause is unknown. Despite the abnormal formation of the vertebrae in the womb, the condition may not appear until adolescence.
Signs Of Scoliosis
Even in mild cases of scoliosis, there are usually telltale signs that the condition is present. These signs typically become more pronounced as the condition progresses and may include the following:
- Visibly abnormal curvature of the spine (“c” or “s” shape when viewed from behind)
- Uneven shoulders, hips, and/or leg length
- Head not centered over the pelvis
- One shoulder blade protruding further than the other
- Ribs higher than normal
Along with the signs listed above, there are also a variety of different scoliosis symptoms that may affect each patient differently. Symptoms may range from mild or even unnoticeable to extremely severe and may worsen over time. Some symptoms may appear quickly while others may develop and evolve slowly.
At the New Jersey Spine Institute, our experienced team regularly works with scoliosis patients who live with one or more of the following symptoms:
- Back pain
- Leg and/or hip pain, numbness, or weakness
- Twisting of the spine, and/or a visible hump on the back
- An abnormal walking pattern
- Limited range of motion in the spine
- Difficulty standing up straight
- Weakness in the core muscles
- Bowel, bladder, or motor symptoms (severe cases)
- Breathing problems due to increased pressure on the thoracic cavity (severe cases)
Your initial consultation will include an all-inclusive review of prior conservative and surgical treatment along with a comprehensive physical examination to develop an accurate diagnosis
Risk Factors For Scoliosis
Certain factors may increase the chances of developing scoliosis. These include the following:
Genetics
Though the exact cause of idiopathic scoliosis is not fully understood, research suggests that having a family history of the condition may increase a patient’s likelihood of developing it.
Spinal Injury
Certain types of scoliosis can be triggered or exacerbated by traumatic injury to the spine.
Other Conditions
Neuromuscular scoliosis is often associated with conditions such as cerebral palsy, muscular dystrophy, and spina bifida.
Gender
Though scoliosis can affect both men and women, females have a higher risk of developing the idiopathic form of the condition.
At the New Jersey Spine Institute, our specialists will take the time to help you understand what factors may be influencing your scoliosis. Our exceptional team is always available to respond to any questions you may have along the way. Get in touch with us today to learn more!
Diagnosing Scoliosis
Scoliosis can be diagnosed at any age but is most frequently diagnosed in early adolescence. At the New Jersey Spine Institute, the diagnostic process begins with taking a detailed medical history, gathering information about symptoms, and performing an in-depth physical examination to check the shape, strength, and flexibility of the spine in different positions and during different movements. In some cases, imaging tests such as X-rays, CT scans, or MRIs may also be ordered to gain better visualization of the affected portion of the spine.
One of our specialists will precisely measure the curve of your spine to determine the severity of your scoliosis. Mild to moderate scoliosis is associated with a curve of 10 to 39 degrees, while severe scoliosis involves a curve of 40 degrees or more.
Scoliosis Treatment Options
Once a diagnosis of scoliosis has been made, the highly qualified and experienced team at the New Jersey Spine Institute will develop a personalized treatment plan to address your specific symptoms and help you achieve your comfort and mobility goals.
Scoliosis may or may not require surgery and is typically only surgically corrected if the curvature continues to progress or if the condition causes persistent pain, neurologic deficits, or respiratory conditions. An adult patient with a curve in the spine that is under 40 degrees should be able to avoid surgery altogether.
Non-Surgical Scoliosis Treatment
Many cases of scoliosis respond effectively to conservative treatment options including the following:
- Physical Therapy – Stretching and strengthening exercises along with manual therapy techniques may improve your posture, range of motion, and the strength of your core and spine.
- Activity Modifications – Low-impact physical activities such as swimming and biking can help you reduce and manage the symptoms associated with scoliosis.
- Bracing – A back brace may be recommended to help correct the curvature of the spine, particularly in young patients whose spines are still growing.
- Spinal Injections – Corticosteroids or other spinal injections may offer an effective and minimally invasive option for managing pain and inflammation associated with scoliosis.
- Medication – Your doctor may prescribe pain relief and/or anti-inflammatory medications to help you manage your scoliosis.
Scoliosis Surgery
In cases of scoliosis where spinal curvature is greater than 40 degrees, the condition is progressing rapidly, and/or pain and discomfort are ongoing and negatively impacting the quality of life, a surgical treatment approach may be recommended. Surgeries used to address scoliosis may include:
- Spinal fusion to increase the stability of the spine
- Microdiscectomy to relieve pressure on spinal nerves
At the New Jersey Spine Institute, every surgery is performed using our unique two-surgeon approach to reduce surgical times, accelerate healing, and improve patient outcomes. Get in touch with us directly to learn more.
Speak With The Specialists At New Jersey Spine Institute To Learn More About Which Treatment Option Is Right For You
The exceptional team of doctors at the New Jersey Spine Institute specializes in innovative scoliosis treatment for patients of all ages and is ready to help you resolve your symptoms and regain your quality of life. Contact our clinic to book your initial consultation today and take the first step on the road to recovery. We look forward to meeting you!