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The selected method for the appropriate treatment of adult scoliosis is determined according to the intensity of the pain and curve, and whether the curve is progressive. Generally, the initial treatment methods are nonsurgical.
Exercises that will increase the physical condition, and also stabilization, strengthening and stretching exercises assisted by a physiotherapist may relieve muscle spasm and decrease the pain. However, these exercises do not have a proven role in preventing the progression of scoliosis. A brace treatment may be initiated along with exercise. However, brace treatment should be considered ancillary to exercise and physical therapy. Long-term brace treatment may provide more harm than benefit.
Analgesics can be prescribed in addition physical therapy and exercises to help with pain management. Also, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs may be added to treatment for removing the irritation or inflammation caused by facet joints or nerve compression.
If degenerated facet joints cause the patient’s pain or the pain is radicular due to nerve compression, spinal injections may be the alternative treatment method. Please refer to the section on spinal injection for detailed information on this topic.
These non-surgical treatment methods may be applied separetely or in combination. There is no general agreement in the literature regarding which one should be initiated first or which one is superior. Each patient needs special evaluation and decision. Your doctor will choose the most effective treatment method according to your complaints and condition.