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What happens if scoliosis is left untreated?

I am a 20 year old female and I have scoliosis. What happens if scoliosis is left untreated?

5 Answers

What happens if scoliosis is left untreated depends on the patient’s age and severity of the condition. Most likely by age 20 the scoliosis will not continue to worsen. However if you have pain or decrease in function or movement then you should be evaluated by a chiropractor to see what can be done to alleviate those symptoms. Scoliosis patients can lead a perfectly normal life and I would not anticipate any problems if it is left untreated.
It depends on the type of Scoliosis that you have. At the very least, you should consult with a reputable specialist, preferably a chiropractor.
If scoliosis is left untreated, the abnormal biomechanical stress that it creates, especially at the apex of the curves, will more than likely cause increased degenerative changes that lead to arthritic changes and discogenic problems. The larger the curvature, the more damage usually. Proper treatment can reduce a curvature and lessen these types of effects.
I hope this info is helpful.

Take care and be well,

Dr. Eric Miller
Since you are past the age of puberty, the scoliosis probably will not get worse until you reach menopause. If left untreated, there may be no symptoms or there can be severe symptoms, this is based on the degree of curvature and any genetic factors for spinal degeneration. I recommend getting some full spine X-rays and consulting with a Chiropractor.
That really depends on the severity of the scoliosis. It is a good idea to get regular checks by your chiropractor because the joints in a scoliosis can become very stressed. If the scoliosis is severe, it may require surgical rods.

If the scoliosis is untreated, the most likely scenario is early arthritis in the joints of the spine that are under more stress.