Episode 110: What is Degenerative Scoliosis?

In this episode, we explore the complexities and treatment options for degenerative scoliosis, particularly prevalent among adult patients. Unlike adolescent idiopathic scoliosis, which may start in youth and progress, degenerative scoliosis typically arises during adulthood due to various factors affecting spinal health.

Causes of Degenerative Scoliosis

Degenerative scoliosis can stem from several causes:

• Changes in Bone Density: As adults age, a decrease in bone density can lead to minor compression fractures. These fractures can cause the spine to degenerate and curve.
• Hormonal Changes: For women, hormonal shifts during menopause are often linked to the progression of scoliosis.
• Traumatic Events: Trauma to the spine, if not correctly treated, can shift the spine’s alignment, leading to scoliosis.

Patients might notice a loss of height due to the spine compressing from the curvature. Common symptoms include lumbar pain that worsens through the day and improves after rest, as well as potential neck pain and headaches. The curve's progression can severely limit mobility and flexibility, increasingly so with age.

The Importance of Early Intervention

Degenerative scoliosis tends to worsen over time due to continuous gravitational pressure on the asymmetrically aligned spine. Early detection and intervention are crucial as progression can impact mobility, a significant factor in older adults' quality of life.

Functional Treatment Approach

Rather than focusing solely on pain management through medication or injections, a functional treatment plan aims to restore spinal function, potentially reducing curvature and improving the patient's overall ability to perform daily activities. The treatment integrates several methods:

• Chiropractic Care: Tailored to scoliosis patients to help reduce misalignments and alleviate pain.
• Scoliosis Specific Therapy and Rehabilitation (SSTs): These are performed in-office to enhance spinal flexibility, allowing chiropractic adjustments to be more effective.
• Home Therapy and Exercises: Patients are also prescribed exercises to perform at home, complementing in-office treatments.
• Scoliosis Specific Exercises (SSEs): Customized exercises aimed at stabilizing the spine.
• ScoliBrace: A specially designed scoliosis brace helps in correcting the curvature by providing more than just support; it actively reduces the curve.

Success Stories

The treatment has been effective across a broad age range, from infants to seniors, including a notable case of a 95-year-old nun with a 120-degree scoliosis curvature significantly reduced below 100 degrees. These successes highlight the potential of specialized care in managing and reducing the severity of degenerative scoliosis in adults.

Conclusion

For those experiencing or knowing someone with symptoms of degenerative scoliosis, it's vital to seek a comprehensive evaluation from a healthcare provider specializing in scoliosis. Early and functional treatment is key to managing symptoms, reducing curvature, and maintaining mobility and quality of life.

This episode underscores the importance of understanding scoliosis's progressive nature and the various treatment avenues available that go beyond conventional pain management, emphasizing a holistic and functional approach to patient care. For more insights into managing scoliosis and other related topics, subscribe and stay tuned to the podcast.

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