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Surgical Correction with instrumentation
Video animation of surgical correction of spinal deformity with instrumentation |
Degenerative Scoliosis
Overview
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Conservative Treatment
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Surgical Correction
Conservative Treatment
Nearly all patients with adult scoliosis will respond to conservative treatment and lead a normal, functional life. When pain is present, it is usually short term and manageable. Treatment for adult scoliosis should almost always begin with a non-invasive approach. Our philosophy is, "Try the easy things first."
Non-steroid Anti-inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDS) have been the cornerstone of medical therapy for arthritic and inflammatory conditions. These medications can quiet the pain and stiffness caused by degenerating discs and joints.
Physical Therapy is an excellent way to improve function, flexibility, endurance, and decrease pain. Usually the therapist will work with patients toward becoming less symptomatic, and maintaining the improvement with an active home exercise program. Working out in a supervised environment with the help of a physical therapist is the best way to achieve it. On average, therapy lasts 2-3 times per week for 4-8 weeks.
It is very important that adult patients with scoliosis get into the habit of doing a daily exercise routine. This will improve the strength of the trunk muscles and take some of the stress off from the spine. Often when pain occurs, it is because the patient is not doing his or her exercises.
Sometimes a back brace is helpful in getting some relief from back pain in patients with degenerative scoliosis. A word of caution is in order however: the brace should not be used without faithful compliance with an active exercise program. Brace wear without exercise tends to lead to a weaker spine that becomes dependent on the brace. Daily exercises and occasional (when needed) brace wear lead to the best results, where bracing is concerned.
Medical management of osteoporosis and general health is important to maintaining an active lifestyle into old age, especially in patients with scoliosis. Solving small problems before they become big ones has always been good advice.
Passive manipulation (Chiropractic) is not an acceptable treatment for scoliosis of any kind. Passive manipulation of the spine provides short term symptomatic relief for muscle spasm, but does not impact the size of the curve or the rate of progression. Patients with scoliosis are encouraged to not rely on chiropractic “adjustments” as a means of treatment since these are essentially equal to no treatment at all.
