Menu

  • About Scoliosis

    • Every scoliosis case is unique.

    Find answers to common questions about the condition and its treatment — from diagnosis and surgical planning to what to expect before, during, and after surgery. 

    Find a specialist

    Find a specialist who is experienced in treating scoliosis.

    Search Now

    Get the back surgery brochure

    If you have scoliosis, this booklet is for you. It explains what scoliosis is and how doctors treat it. It’s also full of useful information for your parents.
     

    Get the bracing brochure

    Has your doctor recommended a brace? Learn how bracing may help stop the progression of your spinal curve.
     

    Scoliosis FAQ

    1. What is scoliosis, and how is it different from kyphosis or lordosis? 
      Scoliosis is a sideways curve of the spine, while kyphosis causes a forward rounding and lordosis creates an exaggerated inward curve. Each affects posture and spinal alignment differently.
    2. What causes scoliosis? Are genetics, posture, or injury to blame? 
      Most scoliosis is idiopathic, meaning the cause is unknown, but genetics can play a role. Less commonly, it’s linked to neuromuscular conditions, birth defects, or spine injuries.
    3. Can scoliosis develop in adults, or is it only a childhood condition? 
      Yes, scoliosis can develop in adults. While scoliosis often begins in adolescence, adults may develop curves in the spine due to age-related changes, degeneration, or untreated childhood scoliosis.
    4. What are the most common symptoms of scoliosis or spinal deformity? 
      Uneven shoulders, a visible curve in the spine, back pain, or clothing that hangs unevenly are common signs. Some people also notice fatigue or reduced flexibility.
    5. What happens if scoliosis isn’t treated? 
      Untreated scoliosis can worsen over time, causing back pain, reduced lung capacity, posture problems, and decreased quality of life. Early diagnosis helps prevent progression.
    6. Can mild scoliosis correct itself, or will it always need treatment? 
      Mild curves may remain stable without treatment, but monitoring is important since growth or aging can cause the curve to worsen over time.

    1. What are the most common treatments for scoliosis and spinal deformity? 
      Treatment depends on curve severity and symptoms. Options include observation, bracing, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery.
    2. When is bracing recommended? How effective is it at stopping curve progression? 
      Bracing is typically used in growing children or teens with moderate curves and can help prevent the curve from worsening in many cases.
    3. When is surgery recommended to treat scoliosis?
      Surgery is typically recommended when the spinal curve is severe, usually greater than 40–50 degrees or continues to worsen despite non-surgical treatments such as bracing. It may also be advised if scoliosis causes significant pain, breathing problems, or limits daily function. The goal is to correct the curve, stabilize the spine, and prevent further progression.1
    4. Can adults with scoliosis benefit from treatment, even if they were never treated as kids? 
      Absolutely. Adults can see significant improvements in pain relief, posture, and quality of life with tailored surgical or non-surgical care.
    5. How successful is surgery at correcting scoliosis or improving quality of life? 
      Most patients experience reduced pain, better posture, and improved function. Success rates are high when performed by experienced spine specialists.2

    1. How do I know if I’m a candidate for scoliosis or spinal fusion surgery?
      You may be a candidate if your curve is severe, continues to progress, or causes pain or limited function that affects your quality of life. Always talk to your doctor about your diagnosis and treatment options.
    2. What tests or imaging will my surgeon order before recommending surgery?
      You’ll likely have X-rays, MRI, or CT scans to evaluate spinal structure and plan the best surgical approach.
    3. What are the risks of scoliosis surgery?
      Risks may include infection, bleeding, or hardware issues.
    1. How do I choose the right spine surgeon or medical center for scoliosis care?
      Ask your primary care physician for a recommendation, or use the "Find a Specialist" tool to locate a surgeon near you.
    2. Will I need to stop certain medications or supplements before surgery?
      Yes. Your surgeon will provide guidance on which medications to pause.
    3. How long will I be in the hospital after scoliosis surgery?
      Most patients stay in the hospital for three to seven days, depending on the complexity of the procedure and recovery progress.3
    4. Can I talk with other patients who’ve had scoliosis surgery to learn about their experience?
      Yes. Many hospitals or support groups can connect you with past patients for shared experiences and recovery tips.
    5. Will my insurance cover spinal fusion or deformity correction surgery?
      Most insurance plans cover medically necessary scoliosis surgery. Your care team can help confirm coverage and preauthorization.

    1. What happens during scoliosis surgery? 
      The surgeon straightens and stabilizes the spine using metal implants such as rods and screws to hold the bones in alignment as they heal.
    2. How long does scoliosis surgery take from start to finish? 
      Surgery typically lasts four to six hours, depending on curve severity and surgical approach.
    3. What technology helps surgeons plan and guide scoliosis or spinal deformity surgery? 
      Image-guided navigation, 3D planning software, and robotic-assisted systems help ensure precision and improve safety during surgery.
    4. How do surgeons make sure the spinal cord is protected during surgery? 
      Specialized monitoring systems track nerve function in real time, helping the surgical team respond immediately to any changes.
    5. Will the surgery leave a large scar, and how is it managed? 
      The incision size depends on the surgical technique. Surgeons use careful closure methods to promote healing and minimize scarring.
    6. How do surgeons ensure spinal alignment accuracy during complex deformity correction? 
      They use intraoperative imaging and navigation tools to confirm precise alignment before completing the surgery.
    7. How successful is scoliosis surgery at straightening the spine and reducing pain? 
      Most patients experience major curve correction, significant pain reduction, and improved appearance and confidence.
    8. Is scoliosis surgery different for adults than for children or teens? 
      Yes. Adult surgeries often focus on relieving pain and correcting degeneration, while adolescent procedures aim to prevent curve progression.

    1. How long does it take to recover from scoliosis surgery? 
      Most patients return to light activities in two to four weeks, though full recovery and fusion may take six months to a year.
    2. What can I expect during the first few weeks after surgery? 
      Patients often start walking soon after surgery gradually increasing movement, and attending follow-up appointments to monitor healing.
    3. How long will I need to wear a brace or restrict movement after surgery? 
      Your surgeon may recommend a brace for several weeks, depending on your spinal stability and surgical approach.
    4. When can I go back to school, work, or regular activities? 
      It depends on how healing progresses. Children can often return to school in four to six weeks; adults may return to desk jobs in a similar timeframe, with gradual activity increases.
    5. Will I be able to bend, lift, or twist after spinal fusion? 
      You’ll need to avoid these movements during early recovery, but most people regain flexibility and strength over time.
    6. What can people expect to be able to do after they fully heal from scoliosis surgery? 
      Most patients return to full, active lives after recovery. Once the spine has fused and your surgeon clears you, you can usually resume sports, outdoor activities, and physical work. Low-impact exercises such as swimming, cycling, or yoga may be encouraged early on, and even contact sports or physically demanding jobs are possible for many people after full healing, typically within 6 to 12 months.1
    7. What are the success rates of scoliosis surgery in restoring mobility or reducing pain? 
      Most patients see a meaningful improvement in spinal alignment and daily comfort after surgery. A review of adult scoliosis surgeries found that, on average, spinal curves improved by about 40 percent, and patients reported less pain and better ability to move and perform everyday activities after recovery.4
    8. How does scoliosis surgery impact adults with spinal deformity long term? 
      Adults typically report lasting pain reduction, improved function, and greater ability to stay active after recovery.2