Condition
Scoliosis: supporting spinal health during growth and adulthood
A visible spinal curve can be worrying, whether it concerns a child or an adult. What matters is whether scoliosis is present, how pronounced it is and whether it is changing. These findings guide the care that may be needed.
What scoliosis means
In scoliosis, the spine curves sideways and also rotates. In adolescence, its cause often remains unknown. This type of scoliosis does not simply result from “bad sitting posture”. Uneven shoulders or a change in the waistline may prompt an examination; appearance alone cannot establish the diagnosis.
How it is assessed
We discuss growth, changes over time, symptoms and previous findings. The examination considers the shape of the back, movement and possible differences between the two sides of the body. Depending on the findings, a standing X-ray can help measure the curve. Previous images allow comparison; not every review automatically requires new imaging.
Which treatments may be considered
During growth, agreed follow-up examinations may be sufficient. A curve that is progressing or more pronounced may call for tailored physiotherapy and, where appropriate, a fitted brace. Marked findings need specialist assessment. A diagnosis does not automatically mean a brace or surgery.
Early assessment is important for children and teenagers while further growth is expected. Remaining growth is assessed individually and taken into account when planning treatment. We work with external physiotherapy practices. If a brace is needed, we coordinate care closely with specialist healthcare centres, where the brace is also made. Surgery is considered only in a small number of severe cases. For these cases, we liaise with specialist colleagues outside our practice.
In adults, pain and the ability to manage activity are often the main concerns. Adapted exercise and physiotherapy may help without reliably straightening the curve. Further treatment depends on symptoms, nerve function and changes over time.
Planning the next step together
Bring earlier reports and images and tell us about any changes you have noticed. We discuss which question needs answering first and whether further specialist assessment is required. Related information is available under “Back and spine” and “Movement and exercise”.
