Degenerative scoliosis in adults
De Novo Scoliosis
Adult scoliosis happens as the spine wears with age – we offer a range of treatments to manipulate and realign the spine
What is degenerative scoliosis?
- 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
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What are the symptoms of degenerative scoliosis? icon plus
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
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How is degenerative scoliosis diagnosed? icon plus
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.
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Treatment options for degenerative scoliosis icon plus
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.
Our spinal consultants
Our locations
From complex spinal surgery to diagnostic tests and scans, we provide exceptional spinal care across our network of hospitals. With consultations and scans available at our outpatient centres and specialist clinics.
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The Wellington Hospital
Wellington Place
St John's Wood
London NW8 9LE
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London Bridge Hospital
27 Tooley Street
London
SE1 2PR
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The Lister Hospital
Chelsea Bridge Road
London
SW1W 8RH
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The Princess Grace Hospital
42-52 Nottingham Place
London W1U 5NY
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The Harley Street Clinic
35 Weymouth Street
London W1G 8BJ
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HCA UK at The Wilmslow Hospital
52-54 Alderley Road
Wilmslow
Cheshire SK9 1NY
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HCA UK at The Shard
The Shard
32 St Thomas Street
London SE1 9BS
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Platinum Medical Centre
15 - 17 Lodge Road
London
NW8 7JA
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Chelsea Outpatients
272 & 280 Kings Road
London SW3 5AW
Request a spinal appointment
We're happy to help you make an appointment with one of our experienced spinal consultants. We can also make imaging and outpatient physiotherapy appointments for you.
Call us today
020 7079 4344