Diagnosing & Correcting Scoliosis in Southern California

Scoliosis is an abnormal curvature of the spine, or when the spine curves sideways. This curvature may be very slight or pronounced. Scoliosis is common in children and teens. People with mild scoliosis may not even realize they have it because there are no symptoms. More severe cases of scoliosis can cause changes in posture for children as they grow and develop.

If you would like to learn more about symptoms of scoliosis in Southern California, meet with one of our spine specialists. To make an appointment, use our online search tool to Find a Doctor at Dignity Health Southern California.

Symptoms of Scoliosis

When present, the most common scoliosis symptoms include:

  • Uneven shoulders
  • One shoulder blade sticks out farther than the other
  • One hip rests higher than the other
  • Ribs stick out farther on one side

If you suspect symptoms of scoliosis, meet with one of our orthopedic specialists at Dignity Health Southern California for diagnosis and personalized treatment.

Causes of Scoliosis

Researchers do not know the exact root cause of 80 to 85 percent of scoliosis cases. This is called idiopathic scoliosis. They do know that scoliosis tends to be hereditary, and there is no way to prevent it. Some children are born with an abnormal curvature of the spine (called congenital scoliosis). Neuromuscular conditions, such as muscular dystrophy, can also cause scoliosis.

Treatment for Scoliosis at Dignity Health Southern California

For milder conditions, scoliosis treatment may only require back bracing. A back brace can prevent scoliosis from getting worse, but it cannot straighten the spine. Larger curves — those 45° to 50° or greater — or curves that continue to grow are often treated with spine surgery. Along with straightening the spine, a surgical procedure can also prevent further complications, such as lung problems.

If you’d like to know more about your treatment options, talk with one of our skilled orthopedic doctors at Dignity Health Southern California.

At Dignity Health, we perform the latest diagnostic tests and minimally invasive procedures to correct scoliosis in Southern California.