Adult Scoliosis Treatment in Fort Wayne

Symptoms of Adult Scoliosis

• Visible spine curvature - Uneven shoulders, waist, or hip alignment

• Back pain - Often worse with standing or walking

• Leg pain or numbness - Due to nerve compression

• Fatigue - From muscle strain and imbalance

• Difficulty walking - Reduced walking tolerance

• Breathing problems - In severe cases affecting the ribcage

• Loss of height - Progressive spinal collapse

• Balance issues - Difficulty maintaining upright posture

Causes of Adult Scoliosis

Degenerative Scoliosis

Age-related wear and tear of spinal discs and joints, leading to asymmetric collapse and curvature development.

Progressive Adolescent Scoliosis

Curves that were present during adolescence but continue to progress into adulthood.

Secondary Causes

Osteoporosis, previous spinal surgery, neuromuscular conditions, or spinal tumors.

Risk Factors

Female gender, age over 50, family history, and previous spinal conditions increase risk.

Diagnosis

Physical Examination

Dr. Greenberg will assess your posture, spine alignment, and perform neurological tests to evaluate nerve function. The forward bend test helps identify spinal curvature and rib prominence.

Imaging Studies

• X-rays: Full-spine standing X-rays to measure curve angles
• MRI: Detailed view of spinal cord and nerve compression
• CT scan: Bone detail and surgical planning when needed

Why Greenberg Spine

• Advanced 3D imaging analysis
• Robotic-assisted precision
• Motion-preserving options when appropriate

Conservative Treatment

Physical Therapy

Strengthening exercises, postural training, and flexibility work to improve function and reduce pain.

Pain Management

Anti-inflammatory medications, muscle relaxants, and targeted injections for symptom relief.

Activity Modification

Lifestyle adjustments and ergonomic improvements to reduce strain on the spine.

When to Consider Surgery

Objective Surgical Criteria

Surgery is typically recommended when conservative treatment fails and specific criteria are met.

Clinical Indications

• Curve progression greater than 50 degrees
• Severe pain affecting quality of life
• Neurological symptoms or weakness
• Progressive loss of function

Surgical Goals

• Prevent curve progression
• Improve spinal balance
• Relieve nerve compression
• Reduce pain and improve function

Related Procedures

Scoliosis Surgery

Comprehensive surgical correction of spinal curvature using modern techniques and instrumentation.

Lumbar Fusion (TLIF/PLIF)

Minimally invasive fusion techniques for lower spine stabilization and deformity correction.

Recovery Expectations

Recovery Timeline

Hospital Stay (3-5 days)

Pain management, mobility assessment, and initial recovery monitoring.

First 6 Weeks

Gradual increase in walking, no lifting over 10 pounds, physical therapy begins.

3-6 Months

Fusion healing, return to most activities, continued strengthening.

6-12 Months

Full fusion maturation, return to all activities including sports.

What to Expect

Pain Relief

Improved Function

Walking tolerance and daily activities typically improve progressively.

Curve Correction

Spinal alignment improvement is maintained long-term with successful fusion.

Related Conditions

Related Topics

Learn more about related conditions and treatments

Scoliosis Surgery

Robotic Spinal Fusion

Degenerative Disc Disease

Spinal Stenosis

Outcomes and Research

Contact Us

Experiencing Adult Scoliosis? Schedule a consultation with Dr. Marc Greenberg.

This information is for educational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Individual results may vary. Consult with Dr. Greenberg to determine the most appropriate treatment for your specific condition.

Free Patient Guide

Comprehensive spine surgery resource

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