Scoliosis

What is scoliosis?

Scoliosis is a condition that causes the spine’s vertebrae to turn sideways. Vertebrae are rectangular bones that make up the spine. You have 33 of these small bones, which support and protect the spine. While the vertebrae curve slightly, having scoliosis means they form an "S" or "C" shape that can cause the spine to rotate or twist to the side.

Without treatment, scoliosis can lead to serious physical issues, including uneven shoulders or hips, a noticeable hump on one side of the back, or difficulty standing straight.

Does losing height mean I have scoliosis?

Losing height is a telltale sign of scoliosis, but it doesn’t necessarily mean you have the condition. Other warning signs of scoliosis include:

• Uneven shoulders or hips
• A visible curve in the spine
• One shoulder blade is more prominent than the other
• Back pain, especially in the lower back
• A difference in the way the arms hang when standing straight
• The head isn’t centered with the rest of the body

Any of the above symptoms, including losing height, warrant a comprehensive evaluation. Getting to the root of your symptoms is essential to determine the appropriate treatment.

Is scoliosis preventable?

While scoliosis isn’t always preventable, early intervention can sometimes slow its progression. Tips to slow the progression of scoliosis include:

• Maintaining a healthy weight
• Practicing scoliosis-specific exercises
• Following a healthy diet
• Maintaining good posture
• Bracing

Integrated Pain Consultants specializes in managing pain from scoliosis to help you maintain an active and healthy lifestyle. 

How is scoliosis diagnosed?

Diagnosing scoliosis requires a thorough medical history review, physical exam, and imaging scans to properly evaluate the severity of your condition. Your pain management specialist may use X-rays, computed tomography (CT), and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans to plan your personalized treatment.

I’m getting older. Is it too late to treat scoliosis?

It’s never too late to treat scoliosis, though the spine’s curvature may be more severe later in adulthood than during childhood. Integrated Pain Consultants offers many treatments to improve your spinal alignment and relieve chronic back pain, such as:

• Joint injections
• Epidural injections
• Chiropractic care
• Physical therapy
• Manipulation under anesthesia
• Kyphoplasty minimally invasive surgery
• Spinal cord stimulation

After a comprehensive evaluation, your pain management specialist can recommend the appropriate treatments to address your specific needs and goals.

If you have scoliosis or have recently experienced symptoms of the condition, don’t wait to seek help. Call Integrated Pain Consultants today or schedule an appointment online to learn more.