Adult scoliosis is more common than many people realize. While scoliosis is often associated with adolescents, many adults develop spinal curvature later in life or experience progression of a curve that began during childhood. As the spine changes with age, scoliosis can contribute to chronic pain, nerve compression, difficulty standing upright, and limitations in daily activities.
At Dr. Luke Macyszyn Neurosurgery, serving Marina Del Rey, Tarzana, and greater Los Angeles, I regularly evaluate patients whose scoliosis symptoms have gradually worsened over time. While many patients can successfully manage their condition without surgery, others may benefit from surgical correction when pain, deformity, or neurological symptoms begin affecting their quality of life.
Understanding when surgery becomes appropriate starts with understanding the condition itself.
Scoliosis is an abnormal sideways curvature of the spine. In adults, scoliosis generally falls into one of two categories:
This type begins during adolescence but continues to progress into adulthood. Patients may have known about their spinal curvature for years before symptoms become problematic.
Also known as adult-onset scoliosis, this condition develops later in life as discs, joints, and supporting structures of the spine wear down over time. Degenerative scoliosis is particularly common in adults over age 50.
As the curve progresses, it can affect overall spinal alignment and place increased stress on muscles, joints, discs, and nerves.
Symptoms vary depending on the severity and location of the spinal curve. Some patients experience only mild discomfort, while others develop significant pain and functional limitations.
Common symptoms include:
Many patients report that symptoms gradually worsen over time, making everyday activities increasingly difficult.
A thorough evaluation is important to determine the severity of the spinal curve and identify any associated nerve compression or instability.
Diagnostic evaluation often includes:
Imaging allows the surgeon to measure the degree of curvature, assess spinal balance, and determine whether nerves or the spinal cord are being compressed.
Patients are encouraged to bring prior imaging studies or submit MRI scans for review before their consultation.
Not every patient with adult scoliosis requires surgery. In fact, many patients achieve meaningful symptom relief through nonsurgical treatment.
Conservative treatment options may include:
These approaches can often reduce pain, improve mobility, and help patients maintain an active lifestyle.
For many individuals, conservative care remains effective for years.
Surgery is generally reserved for patients whose symptoms continue to worsen despite appropriate nonsurgical treatment.
Adult scoliosis surgery may be recommended when:
In some cases, scoliosis can cause spinal stenosis or nerve compression that leads to leg pain, weakness, or difficulty walking. When neurological symptoms progress, surgical intervention may help prevent further deterioration.
Adult scoliosis surgery is highly individualized and depends on factors such as age, overall health, curve severity, spinal balance, and neurological symptoms.
Modern scoliosis correction often combines advanced imaging, computer-assisted surgical planning, and specialized techniques designed to restore alignment while protecting neurological function.
Depending on the patient’s condition, surgery may involve:
The specific surgical plan is developed after careful review of imaging studies and a comprehensive discussion of treatment goals.
Many serious spine conditions can now be treated using minimally invasive techniques.
Benefits may include:
As a fellowship-trained spine surgeon, I specialize in advanced minimally invasive spine surgery and spinal tumor removal for patients throughout Los Angeles.
Significant advances in spinal surgery have improved both safety and outcomes for patients undergoing scoliosis correction.
Today’s surgical technologies may include:
These innovations help surgeons improve alignment while minimizing risks and protecting important neurological structures.
Adult scoliosis surgery is among the most complex procedures performed in spine surgery. Successful outcomes require extensive knowledge of spinal deformity correction, biomechanics, and neurological preservation.
Patients benefit from working with a surgeon experienced in:
Expert surgical planning can play a critical role in achieving long-term pain relief, improved function, and optimal spinal alignment.
If scoliosis is affecting your ability to stay active, maintain balance, or enjoy daily life, a comprehensive evaluation can help determine whether conservative treatment or surgical intervention is the most appropriate option.
Dr. Luke Macyszyn provides expert evaluation and treatment for adult scoliosis patients throughout Marina Del Rey, Tarzana, and greater Los Angeles.
Whether you are considering surgery, seeking a second opinion, or looking for alternatives to ongoing pain, schedule a consultation today to learn more about your treatment options.
