Scoliosis is a condition characterized by a lateral (or sideways) curvature of the spine in one or more places, differing from kyphosis, where the spine has an abnormal forward-oriented curvature. It most frequently occurs in children and teenagers but can also manifest in adults. In scoliosis, the spine forms an S or C shape rather than a straight line. Treatments aim to prevent further bending of the spine.
Adult scoliosis refers to this condition when it is diagnosed or persists in individuals beyond their teenage years. This can include cases where the condition was not identified during childhood or adolescence, as well as situations where the curvature progresses or becomes symptomatic in adulthood.
Degenerative scoliosis is a specific type of adult scoliosis that develops due to degenerative changes in the vertebrae and discs of the spine. It is characterized by a sideways curve of the spine and is more common in adults. Symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options for degenerative scoliosis vary based on the individual case.
Idiopathic scoliosis, the most common spinal deformity, affects adolescents aged 10 to 18 and progresses more often in girls. It also affects the curvature of the spine, leading to an S-shaped curve either to the right or left side.
Signs of scoliosis can include one shoulder appearing lower than the other or a rounded shoulder. When a person has scoliosis, the spine typically curves out to one side and then back again, resembling an S shape.
For individuals seeking evaluation and treatment, experts like Dr. Raymond Hah, M.D., Assistant Professor of Clinical Orthopaedic Surgery at the Keck School of Medicine of USC, specialize in spine surgery, including minimally invasive surgery, adult spinal deformity, and complex spinal reconstruction. Contact him at +1 323 442 5300 or rhah@usc.edu for more information.
HSS spine experts treat a range of spine conditions, including degenerative arthritis of the spine, spinal stenosis, lower back pain, spinal curvatures like scoliosis and kyphosis, and complex spine deformities. They also address traumatic injuries causing compression fractures and herniated discs.
For more details on adult scoliosis, visit HSS, University of Utah Health, CHOP, Keck School of Medicine of USC, Harvard Health, HSS on Degenerative Scoliosis, CHOP on Idiopathic Scoliosis, and HSS on Scoliosis.
