Importance of Spine Specialist Treatment for Scoliosis

What Is Scoliosis?

Scoliosis is a curve in the spine that can be painful and cause health problems.

Most people only have mild scoliosis symptoms; however, severe cases can cause numbness, pain, and muscle spasms. The severity of curvature varies from person to person, and there is no standard classification system.

Individuals diagnosed with moderate to severe cases should seek professional help as soon as possible from an experienced doctor at a spine center. To avoid serious complications such as nerve damage and vertebral collapse, a skilled doctor must closely monitor these conditions.

What Are the Symptoms of Scoliosis?

Adults who develop scoliosis later in life usually have more severe symptoms, such as:

• Sciatica and lower back pain.
• Severe curves can also lead to fractures in the vertebrae.
• Milder curves may not show any signs of injury but could cause problems like degenerative disc disease or other spinal disorders over time.

When a person develops scoliosis, there is usually a period when the deformity does not cause any noticeable signs or symptoms; this is known as adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS). It usually happens between the ages of 10 and 18 when girls go through puberty, which causes their spine to grow faster than usual. Adolescent idiopathic scoliosis typically lasts 2-3 years before progressing to the active stage and exhibiting symptoms such as:

• Uneven shoulders, one shoulder noticeably higher than the other side
• Back and neck pain
• Limping due to hip misalignment caused by uneven leg lengths
• Slouched posture when standing up straight.

When to See a Spine Surgeon

If you suspect your child is developing scoliosis, make an appointment with a pediatrician as soon as possible. The pediatrician can perform diagnostic exams to determine if the child has structural defects in their spine. If this is the case, they will refer them to a neurologist for further evaluation and a scoliosis diagnosis.

A neurologist specializes in diagnosing brain diseases such as epilepsy and mental illnesses, but he is also trained in various types of central nervous system abnormalities. For example, he might use MRIs or CT scans to identify what kind of shape deformities are going on in the spinal cord and then come up with different strategies based on his findings.

What Happens When You See a Spine Specialist?

To diagnose scoliosis, a spine specialist will use specialized imaging techniques to view your spine. X-rays and MRIs are the most commonly used imaging tests to diagnose scoliosis. X-rays aid in determining the extent and severity of the curve, while MRIs aid in identifying any disc or joint problems.

Your doctor may also conduct physical exams to assess your mobility and strength. They may also request blood tests to rule out other conditions. It is critical to obtain an accurate diagnosis so that the patient can receive the proper treatment.

General Spine Treatment Patients Can Expect

Once a diagnosis has been made, your spine specialist will recommend a course of treatment. Non-surgical treatment options include:

• Bracing
• Physical therapy
• Observation

Bracing is typically used to prevent curves from progressing. The brace must be worn at least 16 hours a day and fit properly to be effective.

Exercise in physical therapy can help strengthen the muscles surrounding the spine and improve posture. For mild cases of scoliosis with no progression, observation is advised. If the curve does progress, surgery may be recommended. The spine can be realigned, and the degree of curvature reduced through surgery. Surgery, however, carries risks and should only be performed if the benefits outweigh the risks.

What Is the Best Treatment For Spinal Scoliosis?

Surgery should only be used as a last resort if other treatments have failed. Before beginning any treatment, it is critical to discuss the risks and benefits with your spine specialist. Sometimes, the best course of action is to monitor the patient’s progress to ensure that the curve does not worsen.

If you suspect you or a loved one has scoliosis, you should see a spine specialist as soon as possible to get an accurate diagnosis and begin treatment. Remember, the earlier scoliosis is detected, the better your chances of successfully managing it.

What Type of Doctor Should I See About Problems With My Spine?

It is important to note that not all doctors specialize in spine issues.

While orthopedic surgeons specialize in all aspects of the musculoskeletal system, spine specialists are frequently more qualified than these other types of doctors in diagnosing and treating spinal conditions. They are experts in this field and understand the anatomy of the spine as well as the various ways it can be injured or affected by diseases or other conditions.

But neurosurgeons, general surgeons, physical therapists, and even primary care doctors may be able to diagnose and suggest treatments for spinal problems.

Visit A Spine Specialist Today for the Best Spine Care

It is critical to seek treatment from an experienced spine specialist in order to manage the physical and emotional concerns associated with scoliosis. Spine Specialists in our free directory of doctors are well-versed in the diagnosis and treatment of various types of scoliosis. We work with our patients to figure out the best way to treat scoliosis, from braces to surgery, so they can feel better and have better physical and mental health. Doctors listed in our directory accept most health insurance plans. 

Call us at (800) 897-8440 today to schedule an appointment with an experienced spine specialist near you.