“What will happen if scoliosis is not treated?”
I am a 32 year old female. I was wondering what will happen if scoliosis is not treated?
12 Answers
If it is not treated the degree of scoliosis will usually become worse due to the continual loading on the spine during normal daily activities. The spine will buckle under the added load and the curve will become worse. Women have a further aspect to consider. During pregnancy the load on the spine increases dramatically, and the best way to prevent future problems associated with pregnancy is to deal with the scoliosis when it reaches a significant level during these earlier years. The untreated severe scoliosis is a substantial problem. Studies indicate that the quality and length of life are markedly effected by scoliosis. The prevalence of backache is twice that of the normal population, unemployment and the rate of disability pensions are high, poor self-image is common, and the majority do not marry. Respiratory and cardiac problems also become common, causing further severe disability and reduced life expectancy. The consequences are not immediate, it takes years for the effects to worsen.
At 32 years old, your scoliosis curve is not developing anymore compare to when you were younger. The only way that curve can get worse is if there is a trauma to your spine, like car accident. But you might want to start looking into chiropractic care or physical therapy to help with muscle stabilization along your spine. As you get older with the scoliosis, the process of degeneration might accelerate a bit compare to someone who doesn't have scoliosis.
Well hard to say. Need X-rays and measurements to see the severity and degree, but chiropractic can still help with keeping the nervous system functioning right and help keep you healthy.
Your spine can wear out faster than it should.
It’s likely to get worse which can affect the body in so many ways. It will throw off the bio mechanics of the body which can lead to more pain and discomfort, possibly for the rest of your life. I’ve seen it.
At this point, your scoliosis is considered stable. Over time, it can gradually become slightly worse due to age/work related postural changes.
Scoliosis at your age may not progress any further, but it depends on your specific case. If the curve has been progressing, determined by X-ray analysis over the years, then you have to treat it immediately. If there has not been any change over the years, then you can slowly work on your curve via specific exercises. So first determine how bad the scoliosis is and how it’s progressing. If not treated, scoliosis leads early degeneration of the spine including bones and discs. This can lead to pain, spasm, and nerve issues if they get irritated due to the changes.
Vishal K. Verma, DC CCSP
Vishal K. Verma, DC CCSP
In most cases, it worsens.
Hello,
There are numerous things that can happen, not many of which are advantageous to your health or future quality of life.
1. Typically, if your curve is below 20° it is a watch and maintain prognosis with spinal adjustments and physical therapy provided and assigned by your chiropractor. You, have the most responsibility to perform daily exercises at home to minimize the advancement of your curve.
2. If your curve is between 20 to 40° you are typically advised to employ a brace with chiropractic and physical therapy, provided by your chiropractor.
3. If your curve is between 40 to 60° typically that is a surgical consultation.
In short, starting with a chiropractor would be a good initial step. They should be able to help you or get you referred to the appropriate in the doctor to improve your quality of life and minimize the risk of your scoliosis negatively impacting your quality-of-life
Sincerely,
Dr. Duchon
P: 281-557-5525
www.bayoaksphysicalmed.com
There are numerous things that can happen, not many of which are advantageous to your health or future quality of life.
1. Typically, if your curve is below 20° it is a watch and maintain prognosis with spinal adjustments and physical therapy provided and assigned by your chiropractor. You, have the most responsibility to perform daily exercises at home to minimize the advancement of your curve.
2. If your curve is between 20 to 40° you are typically advised to employ a brace with chiropractic and physical therapy, provided by your chiropractor.
3. If your curve is between 40 to 60° typically that is a surgical consultation.
In short, starting with a chiropractor would be a good initial step. They should be able to help you or get you referred to the appropriate in the doctor to improve your quality of life and minimize the risk of your scoliosis negatively impacting your quality-of-life
Sincerely,
Dr. Duchon
P: 281-557-5525
www.bayoaksphysicalmed.com
This depends on the area affected, the severity of the scoliosis, and the type of scoliosis. Some people have no symptoms for their entire lives, some have some pain and arthritis, some have severe pain and arthritis. Scoliosis can be successfully managed by a Chiropractor or Doctor of Physical Therapy. I would suggest taking action now before the pain and dysfunction are too far gone.
This is a tricky question, as it depends on a variety of factors such as severity of the curve (mild/moderate/severe), location of curve(s) (mid back, low back, or both), occupation, etc. Many people with mild to moderate forms of scoliosis do little to nothing as far as treatment and rarely, if ever, have issues directly related to the scoliotic curve(s). Other less lucky people may have constant pain/tightness in their back and surrounding areas. My advice is to find out where you are in terms of severity (if you don't already know) and go from there. And if you are already experiencing problems you think are related to your scoliosis, get an evaluation by a chiropractor with specific training in treating patients with scoliosis. Typically, chiropractors with "Pettibon" training are very good at treating scoliosis. Good luck!
Adaptive changes from gravity and daily stress.
