Problems with the spine can influence how a person lives their life. For instance, adult scoliosis can twist the spine in ways that cause lack of mobility, nerve damage, pain, and even noticeable deformity.  

Oftentimes, people associate scoliosis with adolescents and kids. Though this condition typically develops during the formative years of an individual, adults can also suffer from this issue for various reasons.  

Before you hire a spine surgeon in Boca Raton, here are several things you should know about scoliosis in adults. 

What is Scoliosis? 

For those who don’t know, scoliosis is a medical condition in which the spine curves to the right or left when views from the back of the body. These aren’t regular curves. Also, it isn’t just about curving the spine.  

Scoliosis causes the spine to rotate. Areas around the vertebrae might be stretched or compressed too much. This could apply pressure on nerves, affect nearby muscle groups, and result in chronic and painful conditions.  

How to Diagnose Adult Scoliosis? 

Because adult scoliosis has the same symptoms as other spinal issues, it’s vital to get examined by a medical professional. This will guarantee a precise diagnosis of scoliosis or can potentially rule out other orthopedic issues.  

It’s quite easy to diagnose scoliosis. A medical professional will review your medical history, symptoms, and lifestyle habits. Next, the medical professional will perform a physical exam. He will take a closer look at your back and the shape of your spine.  

The medical professional will ask you to move around while he checks your back. In addition to that, the doctor might evaluate your reflexes and muscle strength to figure out if it affected any nerves.  

Diagnostic imaging can often help with a scoliosis diagnosis. X-rays are a common imaging method that enables the medical professional to get a better look at your spine. It is a painless and simple method to visualize if your spine has abnormalities.  

Causes of Scoliosis Symptoms in Adult 

For a couple of individuals, the compression of nerves or nerve roots can result in cramping, numbness, or pain.  

In addition to that, as the spine keeps on rotating, the ribs and muscles can be affected. This forces the body out of regular alignment. Thus, it can lead to pain, stiffness, or cramping.  

Signs of Scoliosis in Adult 

You might be amazed to learn that a couple of adults with scoliosis do not show signs. When adult scoliosis is more serious, it can result in a range of symptoms that range from mild to painful.  

As the spine’s abnormalities worsen, you might notice signs including: 

• Loss of height 
• Bladder or bowel dysfunction 
• Premature hunger satiety resulting from pressure on the abdomen 
• A pronounced bump in the lower back 
• Shortness of breath due to lung compression 

• Feeling fatigued or tired due to muscle strain in legs and lower back 
• Visible changes in posture 
• Difficulty walking 
• Shooting pain in the legs 
• Numbness or cramping in the legs 

• Weakness in the core muscles 
• Stiffness and pain in the lower back