Can You Develop Scoliosis? How Common is it in Adults?

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Scoliosis is a spinal condition involving an unnatural sideways curvature and rotation. While most cases are idiopathic, meaning no known cause, other forms include neuromuscular, congenital, and degenerative scoliosis. Neuromuscular scoliosis results from conditions like cerebral palsy or Marfan syndrome, which disrupt the body’s connective tissues. Congenital scoliosis occurs when vertebrae form abnormally during fetal development, while degenerative scoliosis develops later in life due to spinal wear and tear.

Scoliosis can affect people of all ages. While congenital scoliosis is present at birth, adolescent scoliosis often emerges during rapid growth phases, and adult scoliosis commonly stems from undiagnosed adolescent cases or degenerative processes. Adult idiopathic scoliosis is often a progression of adolescent scoliosis that went unnoticed due to a lack of pain or obvious postural changes during youth. Many adults discover their condition only after symptoms like back pain or muscle strain lead to an X-ray diagnosis.

Degenerative scoliosis, on the other hand, typically occurs in adults over 55 and is more common in females. It results from abnormal degeneration of spinal discs and vertebrae, often due to asymmetrical pressure caused by misalignment. Factors like poor posture, injuries, and lifestyle choices such as smoking and heavy lifting can accelerate this process.

Scoliosis is more prevalent in adults than often assumed. While 2-4% of adolescents are diagnosed with scoliosis, studies indicate 12-20% of adults have the condition, with rates increasing with age. In older adults, scoliosis prevalence can reach as high as 68%. This highlights the importance of early detection and proactive management to prevent progression and related complications.

Contrary to common belief, scoliosis can worsen in adults due to gravity, degeneration, or untreated cases from adolescence. Treating scoliosis early and addressing its root causes can significantly improve quality of life and prevent severe symptoms.

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00:00 Can You Develop Scoliosis? How Common Is It in Adults?
00:36 Types of Scoliosis That Are Not Idiopathic
01:55 How Scoliosis Develops
02:40 Idiopathic Scoliosis
04:19 Degenerative Scoliosis
06:47 Adult Scoliosis Is More Common Than We Think
07:10 Traumatic Scoliosis
07:26 Current Estimates on Scoliosis
08:40 Scoliosis Does Worsen Over Time