Scoliosis is a sideways curvature of the spine measuring 10 degrees or greater using the Cobb method. This condition typically includes rotation of the vertebra, most notably at the apical vertebra. Scoliosis can have different causes or etiologies, each requiring a specific approach to treatment.
Idiopathic Scoliosis
Idiopathic scoliosis accounts for approximately 80% of all cases. The term “idiopathic” means “of unknown origin,” and humans are the only species known to develop it. There are several subtypes based on the age of onset:
1. Infantile Idiopathic Scoliosis (Ages 0–3)
- The only form likely to self-resolve, with 85% correcting without intervention.
- 15% of cases progress without treatment and may cause lifelong spinal complications.
2. Juvenile Idiopathic Scoliosis (Ages 4–9)
- Seen equally in both boys and girls.
- Requires early monitoring and intervention.
3. Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis (Ages 10–18)
- The most common type.
- Girls account for approximately 80% of cases.
4. Adult Idiopathic Scoliosis
- Often the result of adolescent scoliosis progressing into adulthood.
- May also begin as DeNovo degenerative scoliosis in individuals aged 50 and above.
Congenital Scoliosis (Birth Defects)
- Caused by vertebral malformations present at birth.
- May include wedge-shaped (hemi-vertebra) or fused vertebrae due to abnormal segmentation.
- Often associated with other anomalies in the heart, kidneys, or spinal cord.
Neuromuscular Scoliosis
Occurs due to muscle imbalance or weakness that compromises spinal stability. Conditions related to this type include:
- Cerebral palsy
- Muscular dystrophy
- Traumatic spinal cord injury
- Spina bifida / Myelomeningocele
- Spinal muscular atrophy
- Syringomyelia / spinal cord syrinx
- Chiari malformation
- Tethered spinal cord
This type is often progressive and typically requires aggressive treatment, often including surgery.
Syndromic Scoliosis
This scoliosis type is associated with genetic or connective tissue syndromes, such as:
- Marfan Syndrome – A connective tissue disorder
- Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome – Involves hypermobility and weak connective tissues
- Rett Syndrome – A neurodevelopmental condition
- Prader-Willi Syndrome – Characterized by hypotonia and growth hormone deficiency
- Neurofibromatosis Type 1 – Leads to abnormal spinal growth due to neurofibromas
Pathological Scoliosis
This rare type of scoliosis results from disease processes such as:
- Spinal cord tumors
- Vertebral or organ tumors
Degenerative (DeNovo) Scoliosis
Develops later in life (typically post-age 50) due to spinal degeneration. It may arise from a previously normal spine or from progression of adolescent scoliosis.
Common causes include:
- Disc degeneration
- Osteoporosis
- Facet joint arthritis
- Spinal stenosis
This type often results in pain in the lower back, thighs, groin, or legs and can cause significant functional impairment.
Non-Surgical Scoliosis Treatments at ScoliCare East Phoenix
At ScoliCare East Phoenix, we offer tailored, non-surgical treatments for all types of scoliosis. Our key treatment options include:
ScoliBrace
- Custom-made, over-corrective braces for all age groups and scoliosis types.
- We also offer ScoliSuspension braces for patients using wheelchairs and the unique KyphoBrace for hyper-kyphosis.
ScoliBalance Exercise Program
This scoliosis-specific exercise system is based on Schroth Method principles and integrates:
- SEAS Method (Scientific Exercise Approach to Scoliosis)
- Chiropractic Biophysics (CBP)
ScoliBalance helps patients self-correct posture in three dimensions, stabilize new alignment through strength-building, and integrate better posture into daily life.
This treatment is an excellent adjunct to bracing and is also effective as a stand-alone option for milder cases.
Get Expert Help in Arizona for All Types of Scoliosis
If you’re seeking non-surgical scoliosis treatment in Gilbert, Mesa, Chandler, Scottsdale, Peoria, Glendale, Tucson, or anywhere in Arizona, call ScoliCare East Phoenix today at (480) 892-0022 to schedule your evaluation.
