Scoliosis-Related Back Pain

EmmaNem98,

A ten degree curve is just barely scoliosis, and in some institutions it would be called spinal asymmetry. In some places, a curve is not called scoliosis until it reaches a 20 degree curve.

Some pediatric spine surgeons do not want to label a patient with the diagnosis of scoliosis, until they have to. It is known that the small curves usually do not progress and cause very few problems. So, they call curves from 10-19 degrees spinal asymmetry. It is often difficult for patient who carry the label of scoliosis to get insurance once they are grown up and they cannot hold certain jobs (like the military, police, and some factory jobs).


So, you can't really blame the curve as the source of pain. There are many, many people out there who have much larger curves, and have no pain at all.


The most common cause of back pain is musculoskeletal. It is usually due to poor core muscle strength and flexibility. So, most will respond to a therapy program which emphasizes strengthening the muscles around the core of the body and also making sure that the patient is flexible.

In addition, weight management (if needed) and overall cardiovascular fitness. Walking is a great exercise as is bicycling and swimming.


So, you basically want to increase your muscular strength, get into the best overall physical condition you can, and if needed, watch your weight. Now is the best time to do this, while you are still young. What you do now will affect your body for the rest of your life.


Good luck.