INTRODUCTION AND DEFINITION
Adult scoliosis may persist from youth or develop through age-related degeneration; pain and overall balance can matter more than curve angle alone.
This page provides general patient information rather than an individual diagnosis. Decisions depend on symptoms, examination findings, relevant tests and patient preferences. Two people with the same diagnosis may require different care plans.
CAUSES AND SYMPTOMS
Degenerative discs, prior scoliosis and bone weakness may contribute to back pain, leg symptoms and stooped posture.
The intensity of symptoms does not always match the extent of changes seen on scans. New significant weakness, walking difficulty or changes in bladder or bowel control require urgent medical assessment.
DIAGNOSIS AND ASSESSMENT
Standing full-spine imaging evaluates balance, with MRI for nerve symptoms and assessment of bone quality when needed.
Assessment begins with the clinical history and an appropriate examination of strength, sensation and reflexes. X-rays, MRI, CT or nerve studies are used when they can answer a specific clinical question. A scan report alone does not establish the need for surgery.
TREATMENT OPTIONS
Exercise, pain management, rehabilitation and bone health care are often initial steps.
Management depends on the underlying cause, severity, overall health and realistic goals of treatment. Depending on the condition, monitoring, nonoperative care, activity modification, rehabilitation or clinician-selected medication may be considered. No single treatment suits everyone.
SURGICAL PROCESS WHEN INDICATED
Severe imbalance, nerve compression or disabling symptoms may justify decompression and sometimes complex corrective fusion; the risks can be substantial.
Before surgery, the team should discuss likely benefits, alternatives and individual risks. Depending on the operation, complications may include bleeding, infection, anesthesia problems, nerve or spinal cord injury, and persistent symptoms; no outcome can be guaranteed.
RECOVERY AND POSTOPERATIVE PERIOD
Recovery may be longer than for limited procedures; conditioning, nutrition, bone strength and follow-up matter.
Follow-up, movement restrictions and return to work or sport vary with the procedure and neurological findings. New or worsening weakness, fever, wound drainage or bladder and bowel changes require prompt medical review.