Degenerative Scoliosis

Degenerative scoliosis occurs when the spine curves sideways, forming an S- or C-shaped curvature. It typically develops in individuals over the age of 50 and is commonly associated with ongoing degeneration of the spine’s intervertebral discs, facet joints, and supporting structures in the low back. This condition is distinct from scoliosis that occurs in younger individuals because it is often accompanied by symptoms of spinal degeneration, such as back pain, nerve compression, and reduced spinal stability.

Degenerative scoliosis typically affects the lumbar spine (low back). The curvature may progress over time due to continued spinal degeneration, resulting in a noticeable change in posture and increasing discomfort.

The symptoms of degenerative scoliosis vary from person to person. Some people may experience mild back pain, while others may struggle with severe discomfort and difficulty moving. Common symptoms include:

• Back Pain: Persistent pain in the lower back is the most common complaint. This happens as the discs and joints in the spine wear out, causing inflammation and instability.
• Leg Pain or Weakness: If the condition causes nerve compression, it can lead to shooting pain, tingling, or numbness in the legs, similar to sciatica.
• Changes in Posture: You might notice uneven shoulders, hips, or a shift in your body’s balance, which can make standing or walking uncomfortable.
• Difficulty Moving: Many people find it harder to walk, stand for long periods, or maintain balance because of spinal instability or nerve pressure.
• Stiffness: As the spine’s movement becomes restricted, everyday activities like bending or twisting can become challenging.

In severe cases, degenerative scoliosis can affect other parts of the body, such as the chest, potentially making breathing more difficult.

Degenerative scoliosis is caused by a combination of aging and the natural breakdown of the spine. Common factors include:

• Disc Degeneration: The discs between the bones in the spine act as cushions, but they lose water and height with age, becoming less effective at absorbing shock. This can make the spine unstable.
• Arthritis: The small joints in the spine, called facet joints, often develop arthritis, causing pain and contributing to the spine’s misalignment.
• Osteoporosis: Weakening of the bones due to osteoporosis can make them more prone to fractures, further worsening the curvature.
• Spinal Stenosis: When the spaces in the spine narrow, nerves can become pinched, leading to pain and difficulty walking or standing.
• Muscle Weakness: The muscles supporting the spine may weaken with age, making it harder to maintain proper alignment.
• Past Injuries or Surgery: Injuries or surgeries that alter the spine’s natural structure can sometimes lead to degenerative scoliosis over time.

Diagnosing degenerative scoliosis involves a combination of discussing your symptoms, examining your posture and movement, and using imaging tools to get a clear picture of your spine. Dr. Lauren Boden approaches each patient with care and attention to ensure an accurate diagnosis.

Dr. Boden will ask questions about your back pain, changes in posture, and any difficulties with daily activities. She’ll also review your medical history to identify potential risk factors.She’ll examine your spine to check for curves, imbalances, and how well your back moves. She may also test your reflexes, muscle strength, and nerve function to see if nerves are being pinched.

Imaging studies are crucial for confirming the diagnosis and understanding the severity of the condition. These include:

• X-rays: X-rays show the shape of your spine and help measure the degree of curvature.
• MRI Scans: MRIs provide a detailed look at the soft tissues in your spine, such as discs and nerves, to check for compression or inflammation.
• CT scans: CT scans create detailed images of the spine’s bones and are useful for planning treatment.
• Bone Density Test: If osteoporosis is suspected, a bone density test may be done to see if weak bones are contributing to the problem.