Being told you or your child has scoliosis can be overwhelming. Many patients immediately wonder if they’ll need surgery, while others aren’t sure if their symptoms are even related to spinal curvature.
The good news is that most cases of scoliosis do not require surgery. With proper evaluation and individualized treatment, many patients successfully manage scoliosis through observation, physical therapy, bracing, or other conservative treatments.
At Dr. Khurana’s spine practice in Los Angeles, patients receive comprehensive scoliosis care—from early diagnosis and non-surgical treatment to advanced corrective spine surgery when necessary. Every treatment plan is tailored to the patient’s age, symptoms, spinal curvature, lifestyle, and long-term goals.
What Is Scoliosis?
Scoliosis is an abnormal sideways curvature of the spine. Rather than remaining straight, the spine curves into a “C” or “S” shape.
Although scoliosis often develops during adolescence, it can affect people of all ages—including adults who develop spinal curvature as part of the aging process.
The severity of scoliosis varies widely. Some patients experience little to no symptoms, while others develop chronic pain, posture changes, difficulty walking, or progressive spinal deformity.
What Causes Scoliosis?
There are several different types of scoliosis.
Idiopathic Scoliosis
The most common form, particularly in adolescents.
The exact cause is unknown, although genetics are believed to play a role.
Degenerative (Adult) Scoliosis
Occurs later in life as the spinal discs and joints naturally wear down over time.
This type commonly develops alongside arthritis and degenerative disc disease.
Congenital Scoliosis
Present at birth due to abnormal spinal development.
Neuromuscular Scoliosis
Associated with neurological or muscular disorders such as muscular dystrophy or cerebral palsy.
What Are the Symptoms of Scoliosis?
Many mild cases cause few noticeable symptoms.
As the curve progresses, patients may notice:
- Uneven shoulders
- One shoulder blade protruding more than the other
- Uneven waistline
- One hip sitting higher than the other
- Chronic back pain
- Neck pain
- Muscle fatigue
- Difficulty standing for long periods
- Reduced flexibility
- Changes in posture
- Difficulty walking in advanced cases
Adult scoliosis frequently causes pain because of arthritis and nerve compression rather than the curve itself.
How Is Scoliosis Diagnosed?
Diagnosis begins with a comprehensive spine evaluation.
Dr. Khurana carefully examines:
- Posture
- Shoulder alignment
- Hip alignment
- Spine flexibility
- Neurological function
- Walking pattern
Imaging studies typically include:
- Standing X-rays
- MRI (when nerve compression is suspected)
- CT scans (when needed)
The degree of spinal curvature helps determine the most appropriate treatment plan.
Does Every Patient With Scoliosis Need Surgery?
No.
In fact, the majority of scoliosis patients are successfully managed without surgery.
Treatment recommendations depend on:
- Patient age
- Severity of the spinal curve
- Symptoms
- Rate of progression
- Overall health
- Daily activity level
Many patients simply require routine monitoring.
Non-Surgical Scoliosis Treatment
Depending on the individual case, conservative treatment may include:
Observation
Small curves often require regular follow-up appointments to monitor progression.
Physical Therapy
Targeted exercises can improve:
- Core strength
- Flexibility
- Balance
- Posture
- Overall spinal support
Bracing
For some children and adolescents with growing spines, a brace may help slow or prevent further curvature progression.
Lifestyle Modifications
Maintaining a healthy weight, staying active, and strengthening the muscles supporting the spine can help reduce discomfort and improve function.
When Is Scoliosis Surgery Recommended?
Surgery may be considered when:
- The spinal curve continues to worsen
- Pain becomes severe
- Daily activities become difficult
- Nerve compression develops
- Breathing function is affected
- Significant spinal deformity is present
Every surgical recommendation is carefully individualized after a comprehensive evaluation.
Advanced Surgical Options
When surgery is necessary, Dr. Khurana utilizes modern spinal techniques designed to safely correct spinal alignment while protecting neurological function.
Depending on the patient’s condition, surgery may involve:
- Spinal fusion
- Instrumentation using rods and screws
- Minimally invasive techniques when appropriate
- Complex spinal reconstruction
The ultimate goal is to restore spinal balance, reduce pain, and improve quality of life.
Why Choose Dr. Khurana?
Treating scoliosis requires more than simply measuring spinal curves—it requires understanding how the condition affects each patient’s daily life.
Dr. Khurana provides comprehensive spine care by combining conservative treatments with advanced surgical expertise when needed. His philosophy is to recommend the least invasive treatment capable of delivering the best long-term outcome.
Patients appreciate his thorough evaluations, personalized care plans, and commitment to educating them about every available treatment option.
Whether you’re seeking a second opinion, managing adolescent scoliosis, or dealing with adult scoliosis and chronic back pain, Dr. Khurana offers expert care focused on improving mobility, relieving discomfort, and restoring confidence.
Expert Scoliosis Care in Los Angeles
If you or your child has been diagnosed with scoliosis, early evaluation can make a significant difference in treatment options and long-term outcomes.
Dr. Khurana proudly provides expert scoliosis care for patients throughout Los Angeles, Beverly Hills, Santa Monica, Culver City, Marina del Rey, West Hollywood, and surrounding Southern California communities.
From routine monitoring and conservative treatment to advanced spinal reconstruction for complex cases, you’ll receive personalized care every step of the way.
Schedule a consultation today to discuss your scoliosis diagnosis and develop a treatment plan that’s right for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is scoliosis?
Scoliosis is a condition in which the spine curves sideways into a “C” or “S” shape. It can affect children, teenagers, and adults and ranges from mild to severe.
Can scoliosis be treated without surgery?
Yes. Most patients with scoliosis do not require surgery. Observation, physical therapy, bracing, and lifestyle modifications are often effective depending on the severity of the condition.
What causes adult scoliosis?
Adult scoliosis commonly develops as the spine ages and the discs and joints wear down over time. This is known as degenerative scoliosis and may be associated with arthritis and spinal degeneration.
When is scoliosis surgery necessary?
Surgery may be recommended if the spinal curve continues to progress, causes significant pain, compresses nerves, affects posture or balance, or interferes with normal daily activities.
