Scoliosis refers to an abnormal curvature of your spine. It occurs in people of all ages but is especially common in teenagers and young adults.
Sometimes, scoliosis occurs due to an underlying medical condition like muscular dystrophy; other times, it develops for an unknown reason (idiopathic scoliosis).
Most cases of scoliosis are mild and respond to conservative treatments like lifestyle modification and bracing. If your scoliosis causes chronic pain or affects your ability to work or perform other activities, Dr. Khurana might recommend surgery.
Bracing is often used for mild scoliosis to prevent further curvature and maintain spinal stability during growth.
Surgery is recommended for severe cases with pain, deformity, or mobility issues to straighten the spine and improve function.
Conservative treatment, including physical therapy and lifestyle changes, helps alleviate symptoms, improve posture, and slow scoliosis.
Scoliosis may manifest through a range of visible and noticeable signs, which can include:
One shoulder may appear higher than the other.
The waistline may appear asymmetrical due to the curvature.
One shoulder may be noticeably elevated compared to the other.
One side of the rib cage may stick out more than the other.
One hip might appear higher than the other due to spinal curvature
When bending forward, one side of the back may bulge out.
Patients often ask about scoliosis treatment. Here, Dr. Sanjay Khurana has answered common questions related to scoliosis surgery and care. For more information, schedule a consultation.
Yes, scoliosis can increase the risk of several medical conditions if left untreated. Over time, the abnormal curvature of the spine may lead to difficulty breathing, as it affects the function of the lungs. Additionally, back pain and mobility issues become more common as the condition worsens.
As the curve in your spine progresses, it can also impact your physical appearance. You may begin to hunch over, which can affect your posture and gait, leading to further discomfort and reduced quality of life. Proper intervention is crucial to prevent these complications.
To diagnose scoliosis, Dr. Khurana reviews your medical records and asks about your symptoms, including when they first started and if any activities make them worse.
Next, he conducts a physical exam. Dr. Khurana asks you to bend at the waist with your arms hanging loosely during the exam. He also conducts a neurological exam, checking for abnormal reflexes or muscle weakness.
Usually, visual observation is enough to diagnose scoliosis, but Dr. Khurana might also order X-rays to assess the severity of the curvature in your spine.
Treatment of scoliosis depends on the severity of your spinal curve and the effect it has on your daily life. If you have a moderate curve and the condition doesn’t cause you pain, Dr. Khurana might recommend a brace.
If you have a severe case of scoliosis and the curve in your spine continues to get worse, Dr. Khurana might recommend surgery. During scoliosis surgery, he inserts metal rods, screws, and wires into your spine. These tools work together to prevent further damage and straighten your spine.
To learn more about the different treatment options for scoliosis, make an appointment with Sanjay Khurana, MD, at LA Spine Group by calling the office or clicking the online booking feature today.
