Scoliosis can be simply defined as an abnormal curvature of the spine. The degree and nature of this curvature vary depending on the case, but all types of scoliosis can affect the everyday lives of those who have developed it. In order to better understand scoliosis, take a look at the brief overview below and contact the dedicated team at USA Spine Care with any questions or concerns about your condition or the procedures we offer.

Distinguishing among scoliosis types

The types of scoliosis include:

• Neuromuscular. This type of scoliosis is caused by disorders of the brain, spinal cord and muscular system. It is usually first observed during childhood and may lead to paralysis, and it can be treated by bracing the spine, implanting growing rods or completing spinal fusion surgery.
• Osteopathic. The name of this type of scoliosis means “originating from the bone,” and it is connected to the occurrence of vertebral diseases. It causes an abnormal lateral curvature of the spine.
• Congenital. This type of scoliosis presents at birth, as the affected infant has malformed vertebrae or unusually fused vertebrae.
• Idiopathic. This term refers to scoliosis without a known cause. It is usually detected in adolescence and screenings are sometimes performed in middle or high school.
• Degenerative. This condition occurs in adulthood and is linked to the changes the spine undergoes as it grows older. For example, damaged discs and worn-down cartilage can contribute to an abnormal curvature of the spine.

Scoliosis treatment options

All types of scoliosis may be treated through conservative means, but those steps are only intended to temporarily alleviate symptoms rather than treating the curvature of the spine itself. If you have degenerative scoliosis and you want to address the root problem, consider the outpatient procedures performed by USA Spine Care. We offer safer and effective alternatives to traditional open spine surgery as well as a lower risk of complication and a shorter recovery period.^

USA Spine Care is the leader in minimally invasive spine surgery and has helped more than 75,000 patients find relief from chronic neck or back pain. Reach out to us today for more information about our approach to treating scoliosis and ask for a free MRI review* to see if you’re a potential candidate for our procedures.

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