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What is Scoliosis?
Scoliosis is characterized as the sideways curve of the spine. It is normal for your spine to have some curves, but when looking at it from behind it should appear straight. Scoliosis causes a c or s-shaped curve in the spine when looking at it from behind. Many cases of scoliosis are mild and do not interfere with the daily lives of those affected, but severe cases can cause significantly distracting symptoms, often requiring treatment or surgery in order to experience relief.
What Causes Scoliosis?
It is not known what exactly causes scoliosis in those who are born with it, but there is thought to be a hereditary link, as the condition can run in families. Due to their accelerated growth, scoliosis can worsen in children during growth spurts or right before puberty. Less common types of scoliosis can be caused by certain neuromuscular conditions like cerebral palsy, birth defects, surgical complications, injuries or infections of the spine, and spinal cord irregularities.
Symptoms of Scoliosis
Those with very mild cases of scoliosis may not notice or experience any symptoms or may not be bothered by symptoms. The most common symptoms include asymmetry in the body due to the way the spine twists and curves. Symptoms can include:
- Uneven shoulders.
- A shoulder blade that appears more prominent than the other.
- Asymmetrical waist
- Uneven hip height
- Bulging ribcage on one side
- One side of the back sticks out more than the other when bending over
How is Scoliosis Diagnosed?
Scoliosis is diagnosed through a combination of physical examinations and imaging tests. During a physical exam, a doctor will check for asymmetries in the shoulders, waist, and hips and may have the patient perform specific movements to assess the spine’s curvature. If scoliosis is suspected, imaging tests such as X-rays, MRIs, or CT scans are used to confirm the diagnosis and determine the severity and exact location of the spinal curvature. These diagnostic tools help in creating a detailed and accurate treatment plan tailored to the patient’s needs.
How is Scoliosis Treated?
At SpineCare of NY, scoliosis treatment relies on a personalized approach informed by the severity and specifics of each patient’s condition. Our team of experts offers a range of treatment options, including bracing for milder cases to prevent further curvature progression and physical therapy to improve strength and flexibility. For more severe cases, we utilize advanced surgical techniques, such as spinal fusion, to correct the curvature and stabilize the spine. Throughout the treatment process, our goal is to enhance the patient’s quality of life by reducing pain, improving function, and preventing further spinal deformity.
Schedule a Consultation
If you are experiencing symptoms of scoliosis, it is essential to seek expert care to prevent further progression and manage discomfort effectively. At SpineCare of NY, our dedicated team of specialists is committed to providing comprehensive evaluations and personalized treatment plans to address your unique needs. Schedule a consultation today by filling out an online contact form.
SpineCare of NY is located at 523 East 72nd Street, 3rd Floor, New York, NY 10021.
If you are an existing or past patient, please use the Patient Portal to communicate with us.
Please note: This form is for NEW patients only and should be used strictly for administrative messages. DO NOT TRANSMIT personal, confidential health information, i.e., your insurance ID #. Thank you.
Frequently Asked Questions
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What spinal surgeries are performed at SpineCare of NY?
Some of the most commonly performed procedures at SpineCare of NY include laminectomy, microdiscectomy, scoliosis surgery, spinal fusion, and total disc replacement.
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What non-surgical treatments are available?
When spine surgery is not recommended, our doctors will implement an alternative treatment approach and recommend the best possible course of action by working closely with a number of other trusted non-surgical physicians.
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Will someone be able to help me navigate my treatment plan and answer any of my questions?
Each doctor has their own surgical coordinator and physician assistant, and they are part of your team from the time the evaluation process begins. They will be your point of contact to help you navigate your treatment plan, from scheduling your surgery all the way to your last follow-up appointment.
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What should I bring with me to my SpineCare of NY appointment?
All patients, including new and returning patients, should bring their insurance cards, photo ID, and any information regarding their condition, such as medications they are currently taking. New patients are asked to bring recent images and/or scans with them to their first appointment.