Scoliosis in adults

Also known as de novo scoliosis, adult scoliosis happens as the spine wears with age - we offer a range of treatments to manipulate and realign the spine.

Spinal and peripheral nerve

What is degenerative scoliosis?

There are two types of adult scoliosis (an unnaturally curved spine):

  • The first is existing childhood scoliosis which has worsened in adulthood due to wear and tear on the back.
  • The second is scoliosis which first appears in adulthood – usually around the age of 50 – and is the result of worn out joints and discs (de novo scoliosis).

Both types of scoliosis can cause pain but pain is more common in the second type which appears as an adult.

Need to know

The condition may cause pain, other symptoms include:


  • rib cage protruding on one side especially at the back
  • your hip or waist sticking out
  • difficulty standing up straight
  • pain in the back
  • pain in the legs
  • pins and needles due to nerve root pressure

Your consultant may recommend an X-ray or MRI scan to determine where and how worn the discs and spine have become and to assess the degree of curvature.

It may be possible to work out whether the spinal curve will get worse by using a measurement called the Risser sign. This helps the consultant work out the age of the spine and how it might look in the future.

Pain-killers and physiotherapy can be an effective way to manage adult scoliosis in the first instance. Nerve root injections will also help you keep functional and relieve pain. If these methods don't work, your consultant may recommend surgery.
How to book an appointment

Book an appointment

To book an appointment with one of our leading spinal consultants, simply:

1. Call us today or view our consultants

2. If you've been to see your GP about your back pain, please have your referral letter to hand. It'll help us speed up the booking process

3. We'll usually be able to confirm your appointment immediately. If not, your appointment will be confirmed within 24 hours.

Our scoliosis locations

The Princess Grace Hospital

The Princess Grace Hospital

42-52 Nottingham Place London W1U 5NY
The Lister Hospital

The Lister Hospital

Chelsea Bridge Road, London SW1W 8RH
London Bridge Hospital

London Bridge Hospital

27 Tooley Street London SE1 2PR
The Wellington Hospital

The Wellington Hospital

8A Wellington Place London NW8 9LE
The Harborne Hospital

The Harborne Hospital

Mindelsohn Way Birmingham B15 2FQ

This content is intended for general information only and does not replace the need for personal advice from a qualified health professional.