Scoliosis is a sideways curve in your spine. Instead of appearing straight, your spine looks like an S or a C from behind. If the curve grows too large, it can cause health problems.

In scoliosis, the spine curve usually shows up around age 11. It's more common in girls than boys. Doctors don't fully know what causes the type of scoliosis that starts in childhood.

Adults can also have scoliosis. Sometimes, it's a spinal curve that wasn't treated when they were younger. Other times, it's a new curve—usually related to discs wearing out.

Large curves can cause back pain, nerve pain that radiates and poor posture in adults.

Scoliosis doesn't usually cause pain in kids, but it can lead to future health problems. The look of the spine can also embarrass them.

Scoliosis is the most common spine curve problem. We treat other problems related to spines that curve too much or not enough.

• Kyphosis: This is a condition where the upper back curves too much, creating a rounded or hunched look. Poor posture, aging and other health issues can all cause kyphosis.
• Lordosis: This is when the lower back curves inward too much, creating a swayback look. It can affect your posture and cause back pain.
• Flat back syndrome: This is when your spine doesn't curve enough at the top or the bottom. It can make it hard to stand up straight.
• Ankylosing spondylitis: This is a type of arthritis that can make the bones of your spine fuse. Your spine can become rigid and lose its natural shape.

Orthopaedic surgeons treat spinal curve problems. But not all spinal curvature problems need surgery.

The treatments are the same for kids and adults. The approach and timing may be different, though.

How we treat scoliosis in children

In children and teens with scoliosis, doctors usually recommend one or more of these treatments: 

• Monitoring the curve: Your child will likely visit the doctor every few months to see if the curve is growing.
• Physical therapy: Exercises can help strengthen the muscles that support the spine. But it won't prevent the curve from growing.
• Bracing: A brace can keep the curve from worsening when the child grows.
• Surgery: The type of surgery depends on where the curve is, how large it is and if your child is still growing.

How we treat scoliosis and spinal curve problems in adults

For adults who have scoliosis or other curvature problems, your symptoms and goals help guide treatment. We usually start with conservative treatments and add more as you need.  

These can include: 

• Lifestyle changes: We can discuss habits or activities worsening your pain. For some conditions, losing weight can help (though it can't reverse a curve). We can help you start an exercise program or quit smoking.
• Physical therapy: Targeted exercises can't reverse a spinal curve but can help with pain from these issues. Physical therapy can strengthen muscles that support your spine. Ultimately, this can help you improve your posture.
• Bracing: Wearing a brace can help prevent your spine from curving more. We'll give you specifics about when and how often to wear it.

Surgery for scoliosis and spine curve problems

For some people, surgery is the best way to fix their spinal curvature. We usually only do surgery if:

• Other methods haven't helped
• Your curve is severe or worsening

The most common surgery to treat severe spinal curvature conditions is spinal fusion. The surgeon links your bones together, lining them up straight.

Your surgeon may combine fusion with other surgeries that cut into the bone or remove pieces of bone. They may also use rods and screws to help stabilize your spine.

At Carilion, our spine surgeons are experts at knowing which type of technique will get the best results. Each person and each curve is different. We'll talk you through options and explain what each involves.