What Are the Treatments for Curvature of the Spine?

Curvature of the spine, also called scoliosis, is when the spine curves abnormally to the side. Symptoms include uneven shoulders or waist, fatigue, and leaning to one side. There are several treatments for such a condition.

Considerations

• Treatment of curvature of the spine depends on the severity of the curve. If it is between 25 degrees and 40 degrees, the patient may need to wear a back brace. A curvature over 40 percent may require surgery.

Low-Profile Brace

• A low-profile brace goes under the arms and around the ribs, hips, and lower back. This type of brace helps prevent progression of the disease in 90 percent of cases.

Milwaukee Brace

• A Milwaukee brace fits the full torso and has a chin and head rest attached. It is used to treat curvatures of the upper spine.

Surgery

• Surgery to treat curvature of the spine involves fusing vertebrae near the curvature. Metal rods, hooks, screws, or wires are implanted to keep the fused vertebrae together.

Exercise

• Exercises used to treat curvature of the spine can include leg, arm, and back extensions, as well as upright and one-arm rowing movements.

Other Treatment

• Other treatment for curvature of the spine includes chiropractic manipulation and electrical stimulation of muscles.