Question
Hi, I have scoliosis and have been diagnosed with it for about 2 years. In the past month
it has really started to hurt really bad. It has always had a little bit of a nagging pain, but now it is worse than ever! It hurts mainly where my back is protruding out on my upper right side. It hurts especially when I am reading, studying, or on the computer. It hurts when Im bent over. It also hurts when i bend over to do work or even when I drive. I even think that the pain may even travel down my right arm. The right side of my back even feels kind of weak. I keep reading about scoliosis and pain, but most websites say it does not normally cause pain. I have been to an orthapedist and he does not recommend surgery or a brace. Could this pain be resulting from something other than scoliosis? If yes, then what could be causing this pain?
Thanks so much!!

Answer
Dear Steph,

Scoliosis may not cause pain but the affected surrounding tissues such as the muscles, tendons, and ligaments will cause pain.  In my opinion, the pain of your right side which is also the side of the scoliosis protruding (convexity) may be due to the muscles being over-stretched due to the curve of the spine.  The pain is worse with sitting and any forward bending motion because this will cause more stretch to the muscle.  Imagine you are constantly stretching your hamstring for 2 months straight without ever letting the muscle rest.  It is the same concept.  A chiropractor or an acupuncturist will be able to assist you in management of your condition.  
Good luck,

Dr. Man Tran