found complication rates as high as 80% in patients over the age of 65 years undergoing lumbar decompression and arthrodesis [5]. Other studies have found longer operating room times, greater estimated blood loss, and longer LOS in elderly patients undergoing surgical correction for scoliosis [6].

Scoliosis in the elderly complications

• If left untreated, scoliosis can worsen and have serious long-term physical and emotional complications. Severe scoliosis, where the curvature exceeds 50 degrees, can cause the spine to rotate, which can lead to decreased lung capacity and heart problems.

Scoliosis can be devastating at any time of life, but the condition is often particularly problematic when it affects people aged 60 and over. A curved spine can cause pain, impaired mobility, and postural problems, and these issues are frequently compounded by other complaints that tend to arise later in life.

Does scoliosis get worse in old age?

Does scoliosis get worse with age ? It doesn’t have to. It’s important to understand diet and exercise isn’t going to cure scoliosis .

Can scoliosis cause problems later in life?

If the scoliosis measures greater than 50 degrees, then chances are high that you will have problems later in life . Severe scoliosis can be disabling. It can cause the spine to twist as well as curve side to side.

Can scoliosis cause other health problems?

While most people with scoliosis have a mild form of the disorder, scoliosis may sometimes cause complications, including: Lung and heart damage. In severe scoliosis , the rib cage may press against the lungs and heart , making it more difficult to breathe and harder for the heart to pump. Back problems .

What happens if scoliosis is left untreated in adults?

Mild cases of scoliosis may not need treatment. But, moderate to severe scoliosis that is left untreated can lead to pain and increasing deformity, as well as potential heart and lung damage. Scoliosis is a sideways curve of the spine with rotation. It most often develops during the growth spurt just before puberty.

What does scoliosis pain feel like?

The most common symptoms of scoliosis in adults is pain and, often, a visible bulge on the back at the site of this pain . Less often, people may experience fatigue, a loss of height, or a feeling of fullness when, in fact, the stomach is empty.

Is scoliosis a disability?

They have the disabilities broken down into sections, and scoliosis would fall under the umbrella of ‘Musculoskeletal Disorders’. In order for scoliosis to be considered a disability by Social Services, it has to meet the SSA’s definition of ‘ disabled ‘: It would have to prevent you from doing the work you did before.

What organs can be affected by scoliosis?

Scoliosis affects the entire skeletal system including the spine , ribs, and pelvis. It impacts upon the brain and central nervous system and affects the body’s hormonal and digestive systems. It can deplete the body’s nutritional resources and damage its major organs including the heart and lungs .

What should I avoid if I have scoliosis?

Some examples of foods scoliosis patients should avoid include: Fast food or other highly processed varieties of “junk” food. Soda pop (even the “diet” varieties) Foods containing corn syrup in any form (high fructose, crystallized, etc.) Artificial sweeteners like Equal, Splenda, Saccharin, Nutrasweet and others.

Is walking good for scoliosis?

Running and walking are also great for scoliosis patients, as is hiking. Sprinting (Usain Bolt’s specialty) is probably better for the spine than long-distance running. Cross-country skiing is also a wonderful physical activity for adolescents with scoliosis .

Can scoliosis affect your bowels?

If scoliosis is left untreated and allowed to progress unimpeded, scoliosis patients can experience the following symptoms: Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) Stomach pains and cramping. Acid reflux.

Can chiropractor help with scoliosis?

When it comes to scoliosis , chiropractic can help , but chiropractic adjustments alone, more than likely, won’t be enough to reduce a structural scoliosis ; however, a chiropractor trained in all components of scoliosis is the best doctor to treat scoliosis because they are trained in multiple scoliosis -related

What is the best pain medication for scoliosis?

Some common medication options for degenerative scoliosis include: Pain relievers. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen or medications that treat inflammation from arthritis (e.g. Celebrex) can help reduce pain. Acetaminophen (e.g. Tylenol ) is another common option.

How is scoliosis treated in the elderly?

Adult scoliosis patients are initially treated as we would treat a patient with a straight spine who has back pain. Treatment might include physical therapy to strengthen and stabilize the spine. It might also include anti-inflammatory medications or epidural injections to relieve pain.

How should you sleep if you have scoliosis?

Many scoliosis patients find that sleeping on their backs is the best way to keep their spine neutral. The one thing to be careful of is creating too much pressure on the lower back. To avoid this sensation, we recommend placing pillows or rolled up towels under your shoulder blades or at the base of your spine.

How can I stop my scoliosis from progressing?

Basically, the best way to stop scoliosis from getting worse is by not trying to simply hold the curvature in place, but actively reducing it. Leaving a curvature untreated and simply hoping it will get better leads to more progression and wastes valuable treatment time.