How Spinal Deformities Are Diagnosed and Treated in Adults
Spinal deformities aren't just childhood conditions like scoliosis—many adults develop spinal curvature disorders later in life due to age-related degeneration, past injuries, or chronic conditions. Left untreated, these deformities can lead to persistent pain, posture issues, and limited mobility that interfere with daily life.
At Mackay Spine & Brain, we specialize in diagnosing and treating adult spinal deformities using advanced imaging, minimally invasive techniques, and personalized care plans. This article explores how these conditions are identified, what treatment options are available, and when to seek help from a spine specialist.
Understanding Adult Spinal Deformities
A spinal deformity occurs when the normal curves of the spine are exaggerated or misaligned. In adults, deformities may be the result of previous conditions that have progressed, or they may develop due to degeneration over time. These deformities can affect the cervical (neck), thoracic (mid-back), or lumbar (lower back) spine.
Common Types of Adult Spinal Deformities:
Scoliosis: A sideways curvature of the spine. Adult scoliosis may stem from untreated childhood scoliosis or develop due to degeneration (called degenerative or de novo scoliosis).
Kyphosis: An excessive forward rounding of the upper back, often leading to a hunched posture.
Lordosis: An exaggerated inward curve of the lower back, also known as swayback.
Flatback Syndrome: A loss of the spine's natural lumbar curve, often due to previous surgery or degeneration.
These deformities often develop gradually, making them easy to overlook—until they begin to seriously affect your quality of life.
Causes and Risk Factors
Adult spinal deformities are often multifactorial. The most common contributing factors include:
Degenerative Disc Disease: As discs wear down with age, the spine can lose stability, leading to curvature.
Osteoporosis: Weakened bones can collapse or fracture, resulting in deformity.
Previous Surgeries: Some patients develop imbalance or flatback following spinal fusions.
Injury or Trauma: Accidents or fractures can alter spinal alignment.
Neuromuscular Conditions: Conditions like Parkinson's disease or muscular dystrophy can contribute to spinal curvature.
Understanding the root cause helps tailor treatment and prevent further progression.
Diagnosing Spinal Deformities in Adults
Accurate diagnosis is the foundation of effective treatment. At Mackay Spine & Brain, diagnosis begins with a thorough patient history and physical examination, followed by advanced imaging studies.
Diagnostic Tools Include:
X-rays: Standard spine X-rays provide a clear view of curvature and alignment.
MRI Scans: Useful for evaluating nerve compression, spinal cord involvement, or soft tissue damage.
CT Scans: Helpful in assessing bone structure, especially before surgery.
EOS Imaging: A low-radiation, 3D imaging system that offers a full-body view of posture and spinal balance (available at select facilities).
During the consultation, patients may also be assessed for:
Gait and posture abnormalities
Muscle strength and neurological deficits
Range of motion and flexibility
These assessments guide treatment recommendations and help prioritize symptom relief.
Symptoms of Spinal Deformities in Adults
Symptoms can vary based on the type and severity of the deformity. Some individuals experience only mild discomfort, while others may face significant physical limitations.
Common Symptoms Include:
Persistent back or neck pain
Nerve pain radiating to the arms or legs
Visible curvature or changes in posture
Fatigue during walking or standing
Difficulty breathing (in severe kyphosis)
Loss of height over time
It's important not to ignore these symptoms, especially if they worsen over time or interfere with daily life. If you're noticing any of these symptoms, don't wait. A timely evaluation from a spine specialist can help prevent further complications.
How Adult Spinal Deformities Are Treated
Treatment is based on several factors, including the patient’s age, overall health, severity of the curvature, and symptoms. At Mackay Spine & Brain, we emphasize a conservative approach first, followed by surgical options if necessary.
1. Non-Surgical Treatments
Most adults begin with a non-operative treatment plan designed to relieve pain and improve function.
Physical Therapy - Custom exercise programs to strengthen muscles, improve posture, and enhance balance.
Medications - Anti-inflammatories, muscle relaxants, or nerve pain medications (such as gabapentin or pregabalin).
Bracing - Braces may be used for temporary support or stabilization, although less common in adults than children.
Pain Management - Injections (such as epidural steroid injections or nerve blocks) can help manage localized pain.
Lifestyle Modifications - Weight management, ergonomic improvements, and smoking cessation can positively impact outcomes.
2. Surgical Treatments
Surgery is typically reserved for cases with severe pain, progressive curvature, nerve involvement, or loss of function. Surgical goals include correcting the deformity, stabilizing the spine, and relieving nerve compression.
Common Surgical Procedures:
Spinal Fusion: Fusing two or more vertebrae to stabilize the spine.
Osteotomy: Cutting and realigning bones to improve curvature.
Decompression: Removing bone or tissue pressing on spinal nerves.
Instrumentation: Using rods, screws, and cages to support the spine during healing.
Minimally invasive techniques are used whenever possible to reduce recovery time, blood loss, and hospital stays. Our fellowship-trained surgeons at Mackay Spine & Brain are experienced in both traditional and minimally invasive spine surgery.
Risks and Considerations of Surgery
As with any surgery, procedures for spinal deformity carry risks such as:
Infection
Blood loss
Hardware failure
Adjacent segment disease (problems at levels near the fusion)
Prolonged recovery time
However, with careful planning, robotic assistance, and modern surgical techniques, outcomes have significantly improved. Our team works closely with each patient to ensure they understand the risks and benefits before moving forward.
Recovery and Long-Term Management
Recovery from spinal deformity surgery can take several months. Patients may need:
Physical therapy to rebuild strength and mobility
Activity restrictions during the healing phase
Regular imaging to monitor fusion progress
Pain management support
Over the long term, patients benefit from lifestyle changes and periodic follow-up care to maintain spinal health. At Mackay Spine & Brain, we provide ongoing care to help you stay on track and avoid recurrence or complications.
When to See a Specialist
You should seek evaluation by a spine specialist if you experience:
Persistent or worsening back pain
Noticeable changes in posture
Numbness or weakness in the limbs
Difficulty walking or standing upright
Prior spinal surgery with increasing symptoms
Early intervention can prevent deformity progression and reduce the need for complex surgery.
Conclusion
Spinal deformities in adults are more common than many realize, and they can have a serious impact on mobility and quality of life. Fortunately, advancements in diagnostics, physical therapy, and minimally invasive surgery have made treatment more effective and accessible than ever.
At Mackay Spine & Brain, we offer expert diagnosis and comprehensive treatment plans tailored to each individual. Whether you need conservative care or complex surgical correction, our goal is to restore your comfort, posture, and function.
If you suspect a spinal deformity or have been living with chronic back pain, contact us today to schedule a personalized evaluation.
