Scoliosis affects almost 7 million people in the U.S. Scoliosis is a condition where the spine is abnormally curved, often resulting in physical discomfort and aesthetic issues. The two main types of scoliosis are Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis and Adult Degenerative Scoliosis. As a top scoliosis clinic in Florida, we often see patients come in with the same misconceptions. Let’s discuss some common myths about scoliosis.

What Are Some Common Scoliosis Myths?

1. I did something to cause scoliosis

Growing up, did you ever hear your parents say something like, “Don’t slouch, you’ll stay that way,”? Well, we don’t know what causes adolescent idiopathic scoliosis, but it’s not because you carried your backpack on one shoulder in middle school. Adolescent idiopathic scoliosis is most likely caused by genetic factors, though scientists are still working to identify the specific gene. 

Another common misconception is that scoliosis is due to a leg length discrepancy, but true scoliosis involves sagittal plane and rotation issues that do not coincide with leg length discrepancies. Adult degenerative scoliosis is not caused by specific events such as a childhood injury or sitting in cramped conditions, but rather a combination of natural degeneration and strong genetic components.

2. Scoliosis will turn my life upside down

Don’t be afraid that a scoliosis diagnosis will turn your life upside down. Whether it’s adolescent or adult scoliosis, proper treatment and screening will ensure you are able to do all the activities you love. There are plenty of athletes who have undergone scoliosis surgery – and not all cases of scoliosis require surgery, especially if treated in a timely manner.

3. Scoliosis causes significant pain

Ninety-five to 99% of patients with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis don’t experience any pain, and if they have physical discomfort, it’s due to the right scapula and can be treated with physical therapy or medications. For teenagers, surgery is meant to halt the progression of the spinal curve, rather than to treat pain. 

However, adult scoliosis can become painful due to nerve compression and muscles fatigued from compensating. This is why treating scoliosis early on is so essential. 

4. Scoliosis means surgery

Often, scoliosis doesn’t necessitate surgery. Most patients fall into the 10-to-30-degree curve range, and don’t end up requiring surgery. Only larger curves of 45 degrees and up will need surgery. Adolescents are mostly treated nonsurgically with bracing, which ensures that the curve does not progress. Other nonsurgical methods include Schroth physical therapy, which involves regular stretching and strengthening. 

5. Surgery is debilitating

While adult degenerative scoliosis can be very difficult, modern surgery can improve your quality of life and help you regain your range of motion. Scoliosis surgery sounds scary, but many of our patients who come in for surgery see a marked improvement on their pain, mobility, and general quality of life.

Contact Us Today

Now that you’ve learned a little more about the common misconceptions that often prevent people from coming in for treatment, it’s time to tackle your scoliosis head-on. With the proper treatment and monitoring, scoliosis can be halted or managed. The Spine & Scoliosis Center is a top spinal clinic with locations around Florida. Call The Spine & Scoliosis Center to schedule an appointment today.