Cases of scoliosis in the elderly typically arise due to one of three reasons. First, there is adult idiopathic scoliosis, which is simply a case of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis that grew up. Second, there is degenerative or de novo scoliosis, which develops due to degeneration of the discs of the spine.

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.

Can scoliosis be corrected in adults?

ANSWER: Fortunately for most adults who have scoliosis , the condition can be successfully managed without surgery. For some who suffer from an overly tilted or arthritic spine, though, surgery can be very effective at relieving symptoms.

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 is the life expectancy of someone with scoliosis?

In the length of this long-term study, the mortality rate was 15%, and individuals showed a decreased life expectancy by as many as 14 years. Another study in Spine from 2002 investigated the quality of life of women with idiopathic scoliosis .

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 .

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.

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.

Can you straighten scoliosis without surgery?

Fortunately, nonsurgical treatments will resolve your child’s scoliosis in most cases. If your child’s spinal curve progresses to more than 45-50 degrees, or if your child’s curve is advancing rapidly, your doctor might recommend surgery .

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.

Can scoliosis affect bowel movements?

Depending on the location and degree of the spinal curvature, the passage of food through the intestines can become blocked, causing constipation.

Will a 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

How do I know if my scoliosis is getting worse?

If a scoliosis curve gets worse , the spine will also rotate or twist, in addition to curving side to side. This causes the ribs on one side of the body to stick out farther than on the other side.

Is scoliosis considered 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.

Does scoliosis worsen with age?

For people diagnosed with scoliosis as young adults, the curve may progress as they age . People with severe 50-degree curves can expect them to increase 1 to 2 degrees every year, Szalay says. Minor curves may never worsen .

What organs are 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 .