Question
i have scoliosis and have none relief pain can you tell me what my options would be to be pain free they say that the degree is about 30-40 so can you tell me if this could cause everyday all day and night and no relief headaches to

Answer
Hi Ginger,
Thanks so much for your question.

I have listed below some options but you need to consult your doctor before doing anything.

Treatment
The following symptoms may be used to determine treatment options: persistent pain that cannot be alleviated, deformity progression, and reduced cardiopulmonary (heart and lung) function (rare). Conservative non-surgical treatment may include: moist heat, medication for pain and inflammation, and exercise. Bracing is rarely used to help control pain. It will not correct or cure scoliosis.  

Surgery
Most patients with adult scoliosis do not require surgery. Surgery may be considered if any of the following exist:
1. Thoracic (mid-back) curve greater than 50 degrees with persistent pain
2. Progressive thoracolumbar (mid and low back) curve
3. Lumbar (low back) curve with persistent pain
4. Decreased cardiopulmonary (heart and lung) function due to thoracic curve
5. Appearance, deformity Pain control is the usual reason for surgery for scoliosis in adults. The spinal surgeon decides the procedure(s) that will provide the most benefit to the patient. Surgical intervention may include the removal of an intervertebral disc (e.g. discectomy) combined with spinal instrumentation and fusion. Spinal instrumentation utilizes rods, bars, wires, screws, and other types of medically designed hardware. Combined with fusion, instrumentation stabilizes spinal segments, enhances fusion, and provides a more permanent solution. These procedures may enable the patient to sit upright thereby reducing the risk for cardiopulmonary complication and may increase mobility. This type of surgery can be performed safely on adults with spinal deformity, usually with excellent results.

Recovery
Whether the treatment course is conservative or surgical, physical therapy may be incorporated to build muscle strength, increase range of motion and flexibility. It is important to closely follow the instructions given by the physician and/or physical therapist.

Any doubts concerning vocational and recreational restrictions should be discussed with your physician and/or physical therapist. They will be able to suggest safe alternatives.

For more information you can contact the Scoliosis Association (info and support) at: [email protected]

Or you can call them at 1-800-800-0669

If you have anymore questions, please feel free to ask me anytime.

Thanks again,
John McKinzie

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