What Kind of Back Pain Is Associated With Scoliosis
Does Scoliosis Cause Chronic Back Pain? Surgery And Treatment Options
The Secret Source Of Back Pain
Is that back pain not going away? More than half of Americans will experience some form of back pain. For a small amount, the source can be scoliosis. Scoliosis affects about 6-9 million adolescents and adults. With the right treatment, including surgery, doctors can help reduce that chronic back pain.
Beware the s-curve
Scoliosis is a progressive spinal condition. Over time, the spine curves unnaturally, resembling an S or C shape. Scoliosis can be mild and unseen with the naked eye. However, some cases are severe, needing a range of treatments, including surgery. The condition develops from a young age. About 10% of kids develop some degree of scoliosis. However, there are some cases of scoliosis in adults. Scoliosis often develops between the lumbar and thoracic areas of the spine. In 80% of patients, the cause is often unknown. The rest could be injury-related or congenital, needing immediate treatment.
But does it cause pain?
Most scoliosis cases go undetected for several years. That's because the condition is generally painless. Over time, as the curvature increases, adults can experience back pain. This can be for several reasons. For example, the shift in the spine causes undue pressure on the lower discs. Scoliosis can also cause the spine to rest on surrounding nerves, causing inflammation and intense back pain. Also, persons with scoliosis may feel stiffness and fatigue. About 40% of persons with scoliosis will have chronic back pain.
A pain-free fusion
In most cases, spinal fusion surgery can help reduce pain and stabilize the spine. Surgeons will often turn to surgery if the curve shows no signs of slowing down. The procedure involves realigning the spinal curvature. From there, surgeons can fuse the vertebrae with metal implants. Scoliosis surgery has a high success rate, restores posture, and brings much-needed relief. For kids, doctors will opt for growth rods to correct the spine and surrounding bones affected by scoliosis.
Bracing for impact
For adolescents, a back brace can help delay the progression of the condition. The brace is a plastic jacket, outfitted to keep the spine straight. Scoliosis patients wear the brace for extended periods to offset the weight on the spine. These braces can be worn during the day or overnight. Bracing works best if there is still some spinal growth happening, and the spine has not curved too far.
A natural approach
For mild cases of scoliosis, some treatment options can help reduce the pain. Adult scoliosis, in particular, can be painful and can benefit from a natural approach. Exercise helps treat chronic back pain. Some stretches and activities like yoga strengthen the spine and reduce pain. Doctors may also try a physical therapy regimen to help reduce symptoms. Over the counter medication and herbal remedies like curcumin can lower inflammation.
Save the spine
While back pain can be common, there could be more at play. Besides back pain, there are some visual signs of the condition. Scoliosis needs a pair of specialist eyes to diagnose the issue accurately. A neurosurgeon can adequately assess and confirm scoliosis. From there, doctors take the right steps to slow down scoliosis and chronic back pain. For more information about persistent back pain, speak with a healthcare provider or spine specialist.
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What Kind of Back Pain Is Associated With Scoliosis
Source: https://www.cityplacesurgery.com/orthopedics/does-scoliosis-cause-chronic-back-pain-surgery-and-treatment-options/
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