Definition: Adult scoliosis is generally defined as scoliosis in a patient over the age of 20 years. Adult scoliosis tends to be more symptomatic than its childhood counterpart.
The cause of adult scoliosis is variable, most commonly idiopathic, or unknown. Other causes of adult scoliosis include neuromuscular diseases, degenerative processes (e.g. osteoporosis of the spine), trauma, or surgery.
Back pain is the most common complaint of individuals with adult type scoliosis. Other symptoms include cosmetic deformity, pulmonary problems, and symptoms of spinal stenosis. Treatment is usually conservative, meaning surgery is reserved for patients with symptoms of spinal stenosis, pulmonary problems, or progressive curves.
