Understanding and Managing Scoliosis and Spondylosis

At Horizon Spine & Pain of Utah, we understand that chronic back and neck pain can make everyday life challenging. Conditions like scoliosis and spondylosis can cause not only physical discomfort but also emotional and functional limitations. Our experienced team is dedicated to identifying the root cause of spinal pain and delivering personalized, non-surgical solutions to help you move and live more comfortably.

Scoliosis is an abnormal sideways curvature of the spine that can develop during childhood (adolescent idiopathic scoliosis) or later in life (adult degenerative scoliosis). The spine may curve in an "S" or "C" shape, and in some cases, the curve progresses with age.

Spondylosis refers to age-related degeneration of the spine—including the discs, joints, and vertebrae. It commonly affects the cervical (neck) and lumbar (lower back) regions, and is often associated with osteoarthritis of the spine.

While scoliosis is structural and spondylosis is degenerative, both can contribute to chronic pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility.

Scoliosis may be caused by:

• Idiopathic (unknown) causes—especially in adolescents
• Degenerative changes in the spine in older adults
• Congenital spine abnormalities
• Neuromuscular conditions like cerebral palsy or muscular dystrophy

Spondylosis is caused by wear and tear over time. Risk factors include:

• Aging (most common in individuals over 40)
• Repetitive stress or poor posture
• Prior spine injuries or surgery
• Family history of spine disorders
• Smoking or sedentary lifestyle

Both conditions can occur independently or together, especially in older adults.

Scoliosis Symptoms:

• Uneven shoulders, hips, or waistline
• Visible curve in the spine
• Back pain or fatigue, especially after standing or walking
• Reduced range of motion or flexibility
• Nerve pain (if spinal curvature compresses nerves)

Spondylosis Symptoms:

• Chronic neck or back pain and stiffness
• Pain that worsens with activity or prolonged sitting
• Radiating pain, numbness, or tingling (if nerves are involved)
• Headaches (in cervical spondylosis)
• Decreased mobility or muscle weakness in advanced cases

Symptoms may range from mild to severe, and early intervention can help prevent progression.

At Horizon Spine & Pain of Utah, our diagnosis begins with a thorough clinical assessment and advanced imaging:

• Medical history and physical examination
• Posture and spine alignment assessment
• Range of motion and neurologic testing
• Imaging studies:
  • X-rays to evaluate spinal curvature or degeneration
  • MRI or CT scans to assess nerve compression or disc health

Accurate diagnosis is key to developing the most effective treatment strategy for long-term relief.

We offer a wide range of conservative treatments tailored to each patient's unique condition and symptoms:

Medications:

• Anti-inflammatories (NSAIDs), muscle relaxants, or nerve pain agents

Physical therapy:

• Customized exercise programs to strengthen core muscles, improve flexibility, and reduce pain

Bracing (in some scoliosis cases):

• To support posture and slow curve progression, especially in adolescents or early degenerative cases

Chiropractic or manual therapy:

• Safe, controlled techniques to improve spinal mobility and alignment

Activity modification:

• Ergonomic education, posture training, and lifestyle adjustments

Conservative management is often highly effective, especially when started early.

When pain persists despite initial treatment, we offer minimally invasive options, including:

• Epidural steroid injections:
  • To reduce inflammation and nerve pain from spondylosis-related disc or joint degeneration
• Facet joint injections:
  • Targeting inflamed joints in the spine for longer-lasting relief
• Radiofrequency ablation (RFA):
  • A non-surgical procedure that disrupts pain signals from arthritic facet joints
• Spinal decompression therapy:
  • Nonsurgical traction-based treatment to relieve disc pressure and nerve impingement

These advanced treatments are designed to reduce pain while helping you avoid surgery.

Surgery is typically reserved for cases where:

• The spinal curve progresses significantly (in scoliosis)
• Nerve compression causes severe pain, weakness, or loss of function
• Conservative therapies fail to provide adequate relief

Spinal fusion, decompression, or corrective procedures may be considered. Our team collaborates closely with leading spine surgeons when surgery is needed, ensuring comprehensive care from diagnosis to recovery.

At Horizon Spine & Pain of Utah, patients choose us because we offer:

• Board-certified specialists in spinal and pain management care
• Accurate, thorough diagnostics using advanced imaging
• Customized, evidence-based treatment plans
• Minimally invasive therapies that reduce pain and promote healing
• Compassionate care focused on your comfort, mobility, and quality of life

Our goal is to help you move better, feel better, and stay active—without the burden of chronic spine pain.