Scoliosis, a condition characterized by a sideways curvature of the spine, can significantly impact an individual’s life. This condition can develop in various sections of the spine: the cervical spine (neck), thoracic spine (chest and upper back region), and lumbar spine (lower back). One notable form of this condition is degenerative scoliosis, a condition that arises in adults due to spinal degeneration, often linked to osteoarthritis or spondylosis.
The onset of degenerative scoliosis is marked by a spine curvature of 10 degrees or more. This curvature can lead to visible changes, such as a person appearing to lean to one side. The condition can affect both the thoracic and lumbar areas of the spine, with vertebrae and intervertebral discs showing pathological changes. These changes include decreased height on the concave side of the spine, as observed in a coronal view of a scoliotic spine.
Scoliosis can manifest in various forms, including congenital scoliosis, which is present at birth and occurs in about 1 in 10,000 newborns. This type is typically due to abnormal development of the spine’s bones. Symptoms of mild scoliosis are often only cosmetic, but as the condition progresses, individuals may experience back pain, fatigue, difficulty walking, and challenges in maintaining an upright posture.
Treatment for adult degenerative scoliosis often includes over-the-counter pain relievers, exercises to strengthen core muscles, and improving flexibility. These methods are typically effective for mild symptoms.
For more comprehensive information on scoliosis and its impact, visit Hospital for Special Surgery, University of Utah Health, and Columbia Neurosurgery. These resources provide valuable insights into the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment of scoliosis.
