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Treatment Options for Severe Scoliosis

Scoliosis is a term that refers the the curvature of the spine. Instead of having a "straight spine," those who suffer from scoliosis will have a spine that has an "S" shape. Scoliosis is a condition that will gradually get worse with time. Treatment options for scoliosis vary, however, surgery is the most common treatment for severe cases of the disease.

  1. Surgery

    • Surgery, which is usually done only on adults, helps straighten the spine by fusing vertebrae together. The surgery is done through incisions along the back while in some cases doctors may also fuse vertebrae with incisions along the sides. According to the Mayo Clinic, surgery for children will occur if curvature is greater than 40 degrees.

    Fusion and Rods

    • Surgery allows vertebrae to fuse or connect together similar to when a broken bone heals. To help vertebrae fuse together, rods, screws or hooks may be inserted into the spine to help keep the vertebrae straight and close together. According to the Mayo Clinic, devises like rods and screws also help "apply force to the spine to help correct the deformity and help straighten the curve."

    Bracing

    • Braces are often used in less severe cases of scoliosis and are not used for severe cases. Braces hinder the condition from worsening. Braces do not improve the condition. According to the Mayo Clinic: "Wearing a brace won't cure scoliosis, or reverse the curve, but it usually prevents further progression of the curve."

    Non-evasive Techniques

    • Electronic stimulation and chiropractic manipulation of the vertebrae are other options of scoliosis treatment. Physical therapy and exercise can also be used to strengthen back muscles.

    Lack of Evidence

    • While exercise, electronic stimulation and chiropractic manipulation may help, there is no evidence to support them as There's no evidence that any of these methods are sure-fire methods for scoliosis treatment. According to the Mayo Clinic: "There's no evidence that any of these methods prevent spinal curvature from progressing. Although exercise alone can't stop scoliosis, exercise may have the benefit of improving overall health and well-being."

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