Lumbar scoliosis refers to scoliosis that affects the lower region of the back, according to the Columbia University Medical Center. Rather than being an adolescent affliction only, it is also seen in mature and retirement age adults, usually as a sharp leftward curve. A variety of treatment and physical therapy options are available, but in order to make a smart choice, it is first necessary to understand the different types of lumbar scoliosis.
Compensatory Lumbar Scoliosis
According to Spina Forum, compensatory lumbar scoliosis is caused by pelvic tilt, which requires an offsetting lumbar tilt to stabilize the torso in a patient of any age. Compensatory lumbar scoliosis can be a transient issue, or it can become a permanent feature of the spine depending on length of the tilt, severity of the tilt and whether or not tissue structures grow to support the tilt and prevent straightening of the spine, notes Spina Forum. For many, correcting the pelvic tilt leads to a corresponding correcting in the lumbar spine that can end the scoliosis. Spina Forum notes that in most compensatory cases, there is no underlying spinal abnormality.
Structural Lumbar Scoliosis
Structural lumbar scoliosis is the term given to spines with a fixed curve, according to Patient UK. Causes of structural scoliosis can include inherited bone structure, bone abnormalities, muscle or nerve imbalances or an unknown agent, notes Patient UK and Spina Forum. Treatment may include braces, physical therapy or surgical options.
Idiopathic Scoliosis
Idiopathic scoliosis is scoliosis that is not linked to a clear underlying medical or postural trigger, according to Spina Forum. Patient UK notes that this is one of the most common scoliosis types. Curvature may clear up naturally in younger patients, but physical therapy, bracing or surgery may be needed as skeletal maturity is reached.
Degenerative Lumbar Scoliosis
Degenerative lumbar scoliosis is the name given to a type of scoliosis that develops in adults over 50, according to the Columbia University Medical Center. Columbia has linked its appearance to the presence of an asymmetrical breakdown of the spinal column. Though it can move up the spine, it generally localized in the lumbar region where its most dominant symptom is back pain. The Columbia University Medical Center notes that treatments for degenerative lumbar scoliosis can range from physical therapy sessions to spinal fusion surgeries.
