Scoliosis

Scoliosis affects as many as 9 million Americans today. This condition can strike anyone, from children to active adults. At Austin Sports Medicine, our board-certified orthopedic surgeons and sports medicine experts offer expert scoliosis support to patients in Austin, Bee Cave, Cedar Park, and Pflugerville, Texas. We’ve been serving this area for decades and have earned an exemplary reputation for prompt, patient-focused care. If you or a loved one needs the best in scoliosis management, call our office or click the online appointment request. We provide same-day and next-day appointments for urgent needs. 

What is scoliosis?

Scoliosis is a condition in which the spine curves sideways versus the normal straight alignment. On imaging tests, the spinal curvature looks like an “S” or “C”. While scoliosis can affect anyone, it typically develops as the grows during the tween or teen years. The average age at diagnosis is 10-15. 

What are the symptoms of scoliosis?

Scoliosis symptoms can vary based on its severity. In milder spinal curvatures, patients may not have significant symptoms. With more pronounced spinal curvatures, problems may include:

• Back pain
• Weak abdominal (core) muscles
• Leg pain
• Leg numbness
• Leg weakness

Parents or other loved ones may notice signs that the person with scoliosis misses, such as:

• Uneven shoulders
• Uneven waistline
• Leg length discrepancy
• Frequent leaning to one side
• A hump on one side of the back, especially when bending forward

Without treatment, scoliosis could cause a steady increase in these symptoms, alongside new problems like breathing difficulties and height loss.

What causes scoliosis?

The cause of idiopathic scoliosis — the most common type — is unknown. However, research shows a genetic component in many cases. Less commonly, scoliosis may occur during fetal development (congenital scoliosis) or due to neuromuscular conditions such as cerebral palsy, spina bifida, or muscular dystrophy. 

Poor posture or carrying excessive weight in a backpack can’t cause scoliosis but can cause symptoms to worsen.

My child was diagnosed with scoliosis. What are our options?

A watch-and-wait approach might be best if your child’s spinal curvature is mild. This involves regular checkups with spinal imaging (done on-site) to ensure the curvature isn’t progressing. 

If the spinal curvature is worsening or is already moderate or severe, your child may need a brace. Custom-made braces, often including separate day and night braces, can help improve posture and prevent worsening as the spine grows. 

For severe scoliosis that dramatically affects breathing or causes debilitating pain, surgery such as a spinal fusion could be the best option. The team only recommends surgery when conservative measures aren’t effective. 

Physical therapy (PT) is an integral part of condition management at all stages. Austin Sports Medicine works with the leading physical therapy specialists to create comprehensive scoliosis management plans. PT can strengthen core muscles, improve flexibility, and help prevent progression. 

Need expert scoliosis support? Contact Austin Sports Medicine today to book an appointment in Austin, Bee Cave, Cedar Park, or Pflugerville, or click the online appointment request anytime.