Scoliosis is a condition characterized by a sideways curvature of the spine. Though commonly diagnosed in childhood, it may also occur in adulthood as a result of spinal degeneration or injury. According to the Cleveland Clinic, adult scoliosis is more likely than childhood scoliosis to cause pain in the back or legs. It may also limit movement. Medication and non-surgical interventions to relieve discomfort are usually attempted as first-line treatments, while surgery is typically reserved for more severe cases.
Medication and Nerve Root Blocks
According to the Cleveland Clinic, certain medications such as corticosteroids or over-the-counter or prescription nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs may be used to reduce inflammation and treat the painful symptoms associated with more severe cases of adult scoliosis.
If scoliosis is severe enough to cause inflammation and compression of spinal nerves, it can cause persistent and severe pain or discomfort. To treat these symptoms, a selective nerve root block (SNRB) may be administered. According to the Columbia University Medical Center Spine Center, the selective nerve root block procedure involves the injection of medication--usually an anesthetic to numb the area and a steroid to reduce inflammation--into the space around a particular spinal nerve root.
Surgery
According to Dr. Edgar Dawson, former clinical professor of surgery and orthopedics at the University of California, most adults with scoliosis do not require surgery. Surgery is usually considered more conservative treatments have failed to control pain. Those with severe uncontrolled pain and a mid-back, or thoracic, curvature greater than 50 degrees, a progressive mid- and/or lower-back curve, decreased heart and lung function that are caused by thoracic curvature or deformity in appearance are the most likely candidates for surgery. While the type of surgery can vary depending upon the severity and location of the spinal curve, surgery commonly involves the removal of one or more intervertebral discs, insertion of rods, bars, wires or screws to stabilize the spine, and fusion of the spine.
According to the Cleveland Clinic, while there are newer, experimental surgeries that attempt to stabilize but not fuse the spine to allow for greater mobility, the results of these surgeries have not been particularly positive.
Other Non-Surgical Treatments
Although they will not cure adult scoliosis, non-surgical treatments are available to help alleviate the pain associated with the condition. According to the Cleveland Clinic, physical therapy, massage and chiropractic treatment may all provide some relief of painful symptoms and mobility limitations for some people.
Dawson says that, while bracing is common among children, it is rare for adults to be fitted with a back brace for treatment as it will not cure or correct scoliosis, nor is it likely to help significantly with pain. The application of moist heat and lifestyle modifications that include the addition of regular exercise may, however, help to manage chronic pain.
Check with your doctor before beginning any new non-surgical treatment regimen to make sure it is appropriate in your case.
