Treatment options for scoliosis depend on the type and severity of the curve. Mild cases may benefit from scoliosis specific exercise, while progressive curves in growing kids and teens, and degenerative curves in older adults, may benefit from custom bracing. Sometimes a combination of both treatment approaches may be of benefit. Severe cases may require surgery. Choosing the right treatment starts with a consultation at a dedicated scoliosis clinic, where a trained scoliosis clinician can develop a personalised care plan tailored to the patient’s needs.

To screen for scoliosis, it’s important to look for signs early, especially during growth spurts in children and teens. Start with a visual inspection from the back, looking for asymmetry in the shoulders, hips, or waist, or a visible curve. Alternatively, you can use an online screening tool like ScoliScreen, which helps identify potential signs of scoliosis. It’s a simple, at-home tool that can be an early indicator of scoliosis.  If a screening suggests possible scoliosis, it’s important to follow up with a scoliosis clinician for a thorough evaluation.

If you’re unsure about your scoliosis diagnosis or treatment plan, it’s a good idea to get a second opinion from a dedicated scoliosis clinic.

There is no scientifically-proven regular exercise therapy that will reduce a scoliosis or prevent a curve from progressing.  However, specialised scoliosis specific rehabilitation programs that have been designed to specifically address the scoliosis curve, have been shown to be effective in many cases. Finding the best approach to scoliosis care begins with a consultation with trained clinicians who can develop a personalised care plan tailored to your needs.

Custom-made 3-dimensional asymmetric scoliosis braces can be effective, particularly for growing children and adolescents, as well as for older adults with spinal degeneration. These braces, tailored specifically to each patient, help prevent the curvature from worsening by applying corrective forces to straighten the spine. They can also improve posture, reduce pain, and enhance quality of life. The effectiveness of a scoliosis brace depends on factors such as the severity of the curve, the patient’s age, and how consistently the brace is worn. If you’re considering a brace or unsure about your scoliosis treatment options, it’s important to seek help from a team dedicated to scoliosis treatment, to determine the best approach for your situation.

If you think you may have scoliosis, it’s important to seek help. You might have noticed signs such as uneven shoulders, a tilted waist, a visible curve in your spine, or experienced pain. Early detection is crucial, so don’t hesitate to contact a dedicated scoliosis clinic for an assessment and guidance on the next steps.

Diagnosing scoliosis involves a thorough assessment, starting with a detailed medical history to gather important information before the physical exam. The physical assessment includes observing posture, movements, and conducting standardised tests of the musculoskeletal and nervous systems. The final step involves analyzing X-rays and other scans, if necessary. Combined with the medical history and physical findings, these results help confirm the diagnosis and classification of scoliosis.

Scoliosis care is available in SA, with options ranging from early screening to non-surgical treatment with specific exercise rehabilitation or custom bracing. This website provides guidance on where to start – whether you’re in a major city or a rural area – and what treatment pathways may be appropriate. Contact a dedicated scoliosis clinic near you.