Scoliosis Specialist

Sanjay Khurana, MD

Spine Surgery located in Marina Del Rey, CA & Manhattan Beach, CA

Scoliosis is a spine abnormality that affects 6-9 million Americans. Though common, scoliosis can result in chronic pain without treatment, affecting your mobility and quality of life. At Commons Clinic, experienced spine surgeon Sanjay Khurana, MD, offers complete care for scoliosis. Using safe, effective treatments, he can minimize your symptoms and help you feel better. To make an appointment, call the office in Manhattan Beach or Marina Del Rey, California, or click the online booking feature today.

Scoliosis Q & A

What is scoliosis?

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.

What are the symptoms of scoliosis?

Symptoms of scoliosis include:

Uneven shoulders
Uneven waist
A shoulder that’s higher than the other
One side of the rib cage pushed outward
One hip higher than the other

If you have scoliosis, you might also notice that one side of your back bulges outward whenever you bend over.

Does scoliosis increase the risk of other medical conditions?

Yes. Without intervention and treatment, scoliosis increases your risk of various medical conditions, including difficulty breathing, back pain, and mobility issues. Scoliosis can even affect your physical appearance. As the curve in your spine gets worse, it might cause you to hunch over, affecting your gait and posture.

How is scoliosis diagnosed?

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.

How is scoliosis treated?

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 nearest office or clicking the online booking feature today.

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