Scoliosis
Scoliosis refers to a sideways curvature of the spine, which may be mild and stable or more progressive and associated with pain or imbalance.
At Total Spine Health, scoliosis is assessed carefully to understand the type of curve, any progression and the most appropriate management approach.
AT A GLANCE
- Specialist assessment of spinal curvature and alignment
- Diagnosis of adult and degenerative scoliosis
- Clear advice on monitoring, scans and treatment options
- Conservative treatment and surgery where appropriate
Understanding Scoliosis
Specialist assessment for spinal curvature and alignment
Scoliosis describes a curvature of the spine that develops sideways rather than remaining straight. In adults, this is often related to degenerative changes in the spine, although some people have longstanding curves from adolescence.
Some cases cause few symptoms, while others may lead to back pain, imbalance or changes in posture. A specialist spinal assessment helps determine the type of scoliosis, whether it is progressing and what management approach is most appropriate.
What is Scoliosis?
Understanding spinal curvature
Scoliosis is a structural change in the shape of the spine, where it curves sideways and may also rotate. In adults, this can develop due to wear and tear affecting the discs and joints, or it may represent progression of a pre-existing curve.
The impact of scoliosis varies widely. Some people have mild curves with little effect, while others experience pain, stiffness or changes in posture and balance.
COMMON SYMPTOMS
Symptoms often linked to scoliosis
Symptoms depend on the size and type of curve, as well as whether the spine is becoming imbalanced or affecting nearby nerves.
- back pain or stiffness
- uneven shoulders or hips
- visible curvature or change in posture
- muscle fatigue or imbalance
- pain that worsens with standing or walking
- reduced mobility or flexibility
- leg pain or nerve symptoms in some cases
COMMON CAUSES
Conditions we assess and treat
Scoliosis in adults may develop from different underlying causes or changes within the spine.
WHEN TO SEEK HELP
When specialist spinal advice may be helpful
Many cases of scoliosis can be monitored without intervention. Specialist review may be helpful if symptoms develop, the curve is progressing or posture and balance are changing.
- back pain is persistent or worsening
- posture or alignment is changing
- one shoulder or hip appears higher than the other
- walking or balance is becoming affected
- leg pain or nerve symptoms are present
- symptoms are affecting daily activity
- you have been told you have scoliosis and want further advice
Important note
Urgent medical assessment is important if symptoms are associated with progressive weakness, worsening balance, loss of bladder or bowel control, numbness around the saddle area, or severe pain after major trauma.
DIAGNOSIS AND ASSESSMENT
How scoliosis is assessed
A specialist spinal assessment begins with a detailed discussion about your symptoms, medical history and any changes in posture or balance. This is followed by examination and, where appropriate, imaging.
- assessment of posture and spinal alignment
- how symptoms are affecting daily life
- whether symptoms are changing over time
- any pain or nerve-related symptoms
- any previous spinal problems or treatment
Examination may include assessment of movement, balance, spinal alignment and neurological function.
Where appropriate, further investigation may include:
- X-rays to assess spinal curvature
- MRI scan to assess nerves and soft tissues
- CT scan where detailed bone assessment is needed
- review of previous imaging
TREATMENT OPTIONS
Treatment for Scoliosis
Treatment depends on the size and type of curve, whether it is progressing and how much symptoms are affecting daily life.
Non-surgical treatment
Physiotherapy, posture advice, strength and conditioning and pain management may help improve symptoms and function.
Injection treatment
Targeted injections may be considered where there is associated nerve irritation or joint-related pain.
Surgical treatment
Surgery may be considered in more severe cases where there is significant deformity, imbalance or nerve compression.
SELF-CARE AND PRACTICAL ADVICE
Practical steps that may help
Surgery may be considered in more severe cases where there is significant deformity, imbalance or nerve compression.
- stay active within comfort
- focus on posture and alignment
- build core strength gradually
- avoid prolonged static positions
- follow physiotherapy advice carefully
- monitor for changes in symptoms or posture
- seek review if symptoms worsen
FAQs
Frequently asked questions about scoliosis
What is scoliosis?
Scoliosis is a sideways curvature of the spine that may develop due to structural or degenerative changes.
Does scoliosis always get worse?
Not always. Many curves remain stable, although some may progress over time.
Do I need treatment for scoliosis?
Treatment depends on symptoms and progression. Many cases are managed without surgery.
Can scoliosis cause nerve symptoms?
Yes. In some cases, scoliosis can contribute to nerve compression, leading to leg pain, tingling or weakness.
RELATED CONDITIONS
Conditions linked with scoliosis
RELATED TREATMENTS
Treatment pathways that may be relevant
- Physiotherapy
- Spinal injections
- Spinal surgery
- Diagnostic assessment
