Scoliosis: Symptoms, Treatments, and When to Seek Care

Scoliosis, an abnormal curvature of the spine, affects an estimated 6-9 million people in the United States. It is most common in adolescents between 10 and 18 years of age, with the majority of cases classified as idiopathic, meaning the cause is unknown. Although some individuals experience minimal symptoms, scoliosis can lead to discomfort and, if untreated, may progress over time. Fortunately, Dr. Fischer, a skilled spine surgeon based in New York City, provides compassionate and expert care for scoliosis, offering a full range of treatment options tailored to each patient’s needs.

Understanding Scoliosis Symptoms

While scoliosis symptoms can be subtle, they may progress as the condition advances, impacting various aspects of spinal alignment and causing a range of physical changes. Here are some of the most common signs:

• Asymmetry in the waist, hips, and shoulders
• The head appears misaligned with the center of the shoulders
• Prominent ribs on the front or back of the body
• Differences in how the arms rest beside the body
• A visible bump along one side of the back
• Skin changes over the spine, such as patchiness or hair growth
• Breathing difficulties due to crowding in the chest area
• Potential for nerve pain and muscular discomfort in severe cases

It’s important to have scoliosis diagnosed early, especially in adolescents, as untreated scoliosis may worsen with age, leading to complications such as back pain and restricted mobility in adulthood. Learn more about scoliosis and symptoms.

Top Treatment Options for Scoliosis

Dr. Fischer offers both noninvasive and surgical treatments for scoliosis based on each patient’s unique condition. Here are some of the most frequently recommended treatment approaches:

1. Medication

Over-the-counter pain relievers can help manage mild scoliosis discomfort. For more persistent pain, Dr. Fischer may recommend prescription medications tailored to your needs.

2. Braces

For growing children and teens with a spinal curvature greater than 25 degrees, wearing a brace can help prevent further progression. This brace is discreetly worn under clothing and applies gentle pressure to the spine to encourage alignment during growth. Learn about non-surgical options for scoliosis.

3. Physical Therapy

Physical therapy is beneficial for building strength, enhancing range of motion, and alleviating scoliosis symptoms. Therapy may include exercises to strengthen the core, hips, and shoulders, along with techniques such as heat application, electrical stimulation, and ultrasound therapy. These treatments support the muscles and can decrease pain.

4. Surgical Intervention

When other treatments are insufficient, or in cases of severe spinal curvature, Dr. Fischer may recommend minimally invasive spinal surgery to correct the alignment and provide long-term relief. Minimally invasive methods involve small incisions, which reduce recovery time and minimize scarring. Dr. Fischer uses a procedure best suited to each patient, based on the degree of curvature and specific spinal concerns.

Common Surgical Procedures

• Spinal Fusion: In this procedure, two or more vertebrae are fused to prevent further movement and secure the spine’s structure. Dr. Fischer places bone graft material between the vertebrae, which eventually fuses with the bone, creating a stable connection.
• Spinal Decompression: For patients experiencing nerve compression, spinal decompression surgery can relieve pressure. A laminectomy or discectomy is often performed to create more space in the spinal column, alleviating symptoms of pain and numbness.
• Spinal Reconstruction: For complex scoliosis cases, spinal reconstruction may involve a combination of fusion, decompression, and other techniques to correct severe deformities and stabilize the spine.

Scoliosis treatment is critical, as children with untreated scoliosis may experience progressive curvature, which can increase by 0.5 to 1 degree annually. Untreated adult-onset scoliosis may also worsen due to age-related wear and tear, resulting in complications like degenerative disc disease and chronic pain.

Schedule a Consultation with Dr. Fischer

If you or your child has symptoms of scoliosis, contact Dr. Fischer’s office today to schedule an evaluation. With her extensive expertise in scoliosis diagnosis and treatment, Dr. Fischer provides compassionate, individualized care to help her patients achieve the best possible outcomes.