What Is Scoliosis?
Scoliosis is a condition in which the spine curves abnormally from side to side. While the spine naturally has gentle forward and backward curves, scoliosis creates a noticeable lateral curve that may affect posture, balance, and spinal alignment.
Scoliosis can develop during childhood or adolescence, though adults may also develop scoliosis from spinal degeneration and arthritis. Mild cases may cause few symptoms, while more severe spinal curvature can lead to pain, stiffness, breathing issues, or reduced mobility.
At Delaware Orthopaedic Specialists, our fellowship-trained spine specialists provide advanced diagnosis and treatment options designed to manage symptoms, improve alignment, and support long-term spinal health.
Symptoms of Scoliosis
- Visible curvature of the spine
- Uneven shoulders or hips
- Back pain or stiffness
- Muscle fatigue or imbalance
- Difficulty maintaining posture
- Reduced spinal mobility
- Breathing difficulty in severe cases
Causes & Risk Factors
Scoliosis may develop from several underlying causes depending on the patient’s age and spinal condition.
- Idiopathic scoliosis during growth and development
- Degenerative scoliosis in adults
- Neuromuscular conditions
- Congenital spinal abnormalities
- Arthritis and spinal degeneration
- Previous spinal injury or surgery
- Family history of scoliosis
Diagnosis
At Delaware Orthopaedic Specialists, diagnosis begins with a detailed evaluation of spinal alignment and posture.
- Physical examination of the spine and posture
- Assessment of spinal mobility and balance
- Review of symptoms and medical history
- X-rays to measure spinal curvature
- MRI or advanced imaging when needed
Accurate diagnosis helps determine the severity of curvature and guides the most effective treatment plan.
Treatment Options for Scoliosis
Non-Surgical Treatment
Many patients with scoliosis can be managed successfully without surgery. Non-surgical treatment options may include:
- Physical therapy and posture training
- Stretching and strengthening exercises
- Pain management strategies
- Anti-inflammatory medications
- Bracing in select cases
- Activity modification
- Monitoring with periodic imaging
Surgical Treatment
Surgery may be recommended for severe spinal curvature, progressive scoliosis, or symptoms that significantly affect daily function. Surgical procedures may help stabilize the spine, improve alignment, and reduce nerve compression. Our orthopedic spine specialists use advanced techniques designed to support long-term spinal stability and mobility.
Recovery & Rehabilitation
Recovery timelines vary depending on the severity of scoliosis and the treatment approach used.
- Physical therapy may help improve posture, strength, and flexibility
- Mild scoliosis often requires ongoing monitoring and conservative care
- Surgical recovery timelines vary depending on the procedure performed
- Long-term spine health often focuses on conditioning and mobility
Our team works closely with patients throughout rehabilitation to help improve comfort, posture, and long-term spinal function.
Why Choose Delaware Orthopaedic Specialists?
Local Care, Close to Home
We proudly serve patients throughout Delaware and nearby communities, including Wilmington, Newark, Middletown, Stanton, North Wilmington, and Chadds Ford. Our spine specialists provide advanced orthopedic care close to home.
At Delaware Orthopaedic Specialists, our fellowship-trained physicians provide comprehensive diagnosis and treatment for scoliosis and complex spinal conditions.
- Experienced spine and orthopedic specialists
- Advanced imaging and spinal evaluation
- Comprehensive non-surgical and surgical treatment options
- Personalized rehabilitation and monitoring plans
- Convenient locations throughout Delaware and nearby Pennsylvania
Schedule an Appointment
Schedule an appointment with Delaware Orthopaedic Specialists today to receive expert diagnosis and treatment for scoliosis.
Frequently Asked Questions
What causes scoliosis?
Scoliosis may develop from growth-related spinal changes, degeneration, congenital abnormalities, neuromuscular conditions, or arthritis.
What are the symptoms of scoliosis?
Symptoms may include uneven shoulders or hips, back pain, posture changes, stiffness, and visible spinal curvature.
Can scoliosis be treated without surgery?
Yes. Many patients improve with physical therapy, monitoring, posture training, and other conservative treatments.
When is surgery recommended for scoliosis?
Surgery may be recommended for severe curvature, worsening deformity, nerve compression, or symptoms that significantly affect daily function.
When should I see a specialist?
If you notice spinal curvature, posture changes, chronic back pain, or mobility limitations, it is important to seek orthopedic evaluation.