What is Scoliosis?
Scoliosis is a disorder that causes an abnormal curve of the spine, or backbone. The spine has normal curves when looking from the side, but it should appear straight when looking from the front.
Common Causes:
- Risk factors include age (9- to 15-year-olds)
- Females
- Family history
Symptoms of Scoliosis may include:
- Pain the back
- Leaning to one side
- Muscle spasms
- Physical deformity
- Uneven waist
When diagnosing Scoliosis, The OPA Spine Team:
- Obtain a complete medical history
- Perform a physical examination
- Order and analyze X-rays
Once an official diagnosis is made, a customized treatment plan is prescribed. Treatment plans decrease your symptoms to help you live an active lifestyle.
Common Treatments:
Nonsurgical treatment options effectively treat the majority of cases of sciatica. Treatment options decrease nerve inflammation.
Injections
An injection of steroid and anesthetic medications.
NSAIDs
Oral medications decrease nerve inflammation and pain.
Physical Therapy
One of OPA’s onsite physical therapist prescribes and monitors strengthening and stretching exercises.
In rare cases where nonsurgical treatments have not resolved scoliosis, our Board-Certified and Fellowship-Trained Orthopedic Spine Team Surgeons may discuss the option of a surgical procedure.
