Scoliosis is a condition where the spine curves abnormally to the side. While it can affect individuals of any age, it is most commonly diagnosed in children and adolescents. The spine curves in an "S" or "C" shape, and the severity can range from mild to severe. Scoliosis can impact posture, cause discomfort, and in severe cases affect lung and heart function. There are several different types of scoliosis, including:
- Adolescent idiopathic scoliosis: The most common type, occurring in children aged 10 to 18, with no known cause
- Congenital scoliosis: Present at birth, caused by spinal malformations during fetal development
- Degenerative scoliosis: Develops in older adults due to spinal degeneration or “wear and tear”
- Neuromuscular scoliosis: Associated with neurological or muscular conditions like cerebral palsy or muscular dystrophy
Accessing the variety of specialists needed for spine care can be complicated. UK HealthCare Comprehensive Spine Center makes it simple by bringing together a team of all the specialists you may need. Within one program, you have access to all our specialties: physical medicine and rehabilitation, interventional pain medicine, orthopaedic surgery, and neurosurgery.
Symptoms of scoliosis can vary depending on the severity of the spinal curve. Common signs include:
- Back pain, especially in adults
- Difficulty breathing in severe cases
- One hip higher than the other
- Uneven shoulder blades
- Uneven waist
- Visible spine curves when bending forward
The exact cause of scoliosis often remains unknown, particularly in cases of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis. However, potential causes include:
- Age-related degeneration: Spinal wear and tear in older adults can cause degenerative scoliosis.
- Congenital malformations: Abnormal vertebrae development in the womb leads to congenital scoliosis.
- Genetic factors: A family history of scoliosis can increase the risk.
- Neuromuscular conditions: Disorders like cerebral palsy, muscular dystrophy, and spinal cord injuries can result in neuromuscular scoliosis.
Your journey to better spine health begins at home. Before you visit UK HealthCare for spine pain, we review your medical records. We may contact you with follow-up questions. We then discuss your case as a team. Based on these conversations, we determine which specialists will best meet your needs.
Next, we schedule your appointment. To provide you with the best care possible, you may need to meet with multiple providers. This helps us meet all your care needs in a timely manner.
During your first visit, we answer questions and provide information to help you better understand your condition. We also work to find out what is causing your symptoms and develop a treatment plan.
In most cases, we start with non-surgical treatment, such as lifestyle changes and physical therapy. Spine issues that don’t improve with this approach may require other treatment, including pain management and surgical intervention.
When coming to your first appointment, plan to do the following:
- Arrive early. You may need to fill out paperwork when you arrive. Getting to your appointment early gives you time to complete paperwork without feeling rushed.
- Bring a current list of medicines or supplements you take. You should also list any surgeries you’ve had, symptoms you’ve experienced and other past health issues.
- Dress comfortably. Working toward a diagnosis takes time. Comfortable clothes help you stay relaxed and attentive throughout your visit. They also make it easier to perform your physical exam.
- Eat and drink as directed. You may need to have imaging or other tests during your first visit. If you need to adjust your eating, drinking or medicines before a test, a team member will call to explain what you need to do leading up to your visit.
- Have your insurance information on hand. UK HealthCare accepts most insurers, and financial assistance is available.
- Bring a family member or friend with you. This person can help take notes and ask questions you may not think of asking.
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