What You Need to Know About Adult-Onset Scoliosis

June is National Scoliosis Awareness Month, so let’s closely examine this chiropractic ailment. In simplest terms, scoliosis is an unwanted s-shaped curvature of the spine. What first comes to mind for most people when the term comes up is what medical professionals refer to as adolescent idiopathic scoliosis, which affects children and teenagers. However, it is not only children that can suffer from this condition. Roughly 2-3% of the US population is affected by scoliosis, which translates to between six and nine million people, many of whom are adults.

Can Scoliosis Appear Suddenly in Adults?

Yes, there are two major varieties that present themselves in adults.

1.   Adult Idiopathic Scoliosis

This is when a case of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis continues into a person’s adulthood.

2.   Degenerative Scoliosis

The other most common type of adult scoliosis is degenerative scoliosis. In these cases, the discs and joints that make up the spine suffer asymmetrical degeneration. As this asymmetry increases, it creates a tilt in the vertebrae as they degrade unevenly, causing the spine to curve.

So, is it possible to develop scoliosis later in life? Yes, scoliosis can happen to adults, not just children and teens.

What Causes Sudden Onset of Scoliosis?

The causes of scoliosis, adult or otherwise, are frequently opaque. In eight out of ten occurrences, the cause of scoliosis remains unknown, and those cases are labeled idiopathic. In cases of adult-onset scoliosis that fall into the degenerative category, contributing factors can include:

• Sedentary lifestyle.
• Improper lifting technique.
• Any other activities that put an uneven strain on the spine.

How Fast Does Scoliosis Progress in Adults?

Four out of ten adult scoliosis patients experience some form of progression over time. Three out of these four can be classified as very mild, defined as less than one degree of variance per year. Only one in ten suffers a greater degree of variance.

Can You Get Scoliosis from Slouching?

No, despite the protestations of your parents to “sit up straight,” there is no correlation between posture and scoliosis. Scoliosis is a bone deformation that develops independently from any postural habits or tendency to slouch. At this point, medical science cannot prevent it, but there are ways to treat scoliosis progression once diagnosed.

Total Chiropractic Care Provides High-Quality Treatment & Realistic Expectations

If you suffer from or suspect that you might have scoliosis, Total Chiropractic Care and Wellness has the experience and expertise you need. Contact us online or call (631) 447-2299 and set up an appointment today to develop a personalized treatment plan, tailored to your specific conditions and needs.