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Scoliosis Treatment for the Elderly

You can develop scoliosis as a child, teenager or later in life. With this condition, there is an abnormal curve to the spine which often gets worse as you age. As a result, older adults may have more symptoms. Treatment can reduce these and even restore normal spinal alignment.

  1. Scoliosis

    • Although normal spines are not completely straight, scoliosis is characterized by side-to-side curves causing the spine to look more like a C or an S. According to the Scoliosis Research Society, often the cause is unknown and not usually related to posture, carrying habits, or athletic activities.

    Scoliosos in Older Adults

    • Adult-onset scoliosis affects more of the spine, including the neck, according to the Scoliosis Research Society. As individuals age, scoliosis can lead to neurological problems. The "Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery" reports that scoliosis often accompanies osteomalacia (bone softening) or osteoporosis (bone loss).

    Muscular Retraining

    • Both physical therapy and core strengthening can help improve scoliosis. Tight muscles and imbalances pull on the spine exaggerating curves. Work with a physical therapist or take strength classes designed for older adults to retrain muscles.

    Rest, Medication, and Surgery

    • Elderly individuals need to avoid or modify activities that worsen scoliosis symptoms like pain. Some may need pain medication to relieve symptoms. Others with severe scoliosis (more than 50 degrees or more of curvature) may consider surgery, though the risks will increase as you age.

    Chiropractic

    • Chiropractic treatment is another option. It is especially helpful if it is due to muscle, joint issues and other underlying conditions like osteoarthritis. There are gentle non-force techniques that can be used on older adults with great success.

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