Degenerative scoliosis

Mechanism and manifestations

It may be asymptomatic or associated with back pain, postural fatigue, radiculopathy or neurogenic claudication. Deformity and stenosis can coexist without contributing equally to symptoms.

Diagnosis and management

Assessment combines standing radiographs, neurological examination and MRI when needed. Adapted activity and symptom management may suffice; surgery is considered in selected cases. Traction does not guarantee lasting correction of a structural curve.

Points to consider

Deformity assessment considers age, remaining growth, global balance and symptoms. Images must be interpreted in light of acquisition position. Goals may include function and comfort, limiting progression or neurological protection, depending on the situation.

Role of TAGMED care

At TAGMED, assessment aims to understand symptoms, history and functional limitations. Manual care and osteopathy, motorized spinal decompression, laser and shockwave have different indications. The term described in this entry is not enough to select any of these modalities. Their relevance, limitations and possible contraindications should be discussed in relation to diagnosis and individual goals.

Related concepts and distinctions

These concepts belong to the same field, but are not synonyms.

• Idiopathic scoliosis — Scoliosis for which no specific cause is identified after assessment, most often appearing during adolescent growth.
• Hyperkyphosis — Excessive posterior-convex spinal curvature, usually thoracic, which may be postural or structural.
• Flatback syndrome — Sagittal alignment disorder characterized by loss of lumbar lordosis that may make standing upright difficult without compensatory posture.

Medical references

1. Scoliosis Research Society. Scoliosis.
2. OpenStax, Rice University. Anatomy and Physiology 2e — The Vertebral Column.

References document the topic; their inclusion does not imply endorsement of TAGMED services by those organizations.