Scoliosis is a condition that causes the spine to curve abnormally, often in an “S” or “C” shape. Whilst many people think of scoliosis as a childhood condition, it can also affect adults. Understanding the differences between adult scoliosis and adolescent scoliosis is key to recognising symptoms, seeking timely treatment, and managing the condition effectively.

Adolescent Scoliosis: Focus on Growth & Prevention

Adolescent scoliosis is a spinal curvature of more than 10° diagnosed between the ages of 10 and 18 years. In almost all cases there is no specific cause for the spinal curvature, so most are classified as Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis (AIS). Adolescents with scoliosis rarely experience pain, however scoliosis at this age can have a high chance for progression due to rapid growth spurts.

Common Signs:

• Uneven shoulders or hips
• Rib hump or prominence
• Postural imbalances
• Clothes not fitting evenly

Physiotherapy Goals for adolescents:

• Correct spinal curve and prevent worsening
• Support postural alignment and symmetry
• Strengthen core and spinal musculature
• Education on body awareness and movement habits
• Prevent or treat respiratory dysfunction in more severe cases

Physiotherapy Treatment Options:

• Physiotherapeutic scoliosis-specific exercises
• Postural training and correction
• Breathing techniques for rib mobility
• Bracing (if prescribed)

One of the major differences between adolescents and adults is that in the case of adolescent scoliosis, the spine and bones are still in development. If the spine continues to grow with a curvature, this may lead to asymmetrical growth and result in permanent structural changes (e.g. spinal wedging, rib malalignment). Therefore, early diagnosis is extremely important, and correction or stabilisation of the spine’s alignment is a key goal of treatment for adolescents.

Adult Scoliosis: Focus on Pain Management & Function

In adults, scoliosis may result from the progression of untreated AIS or arise from degenerative changes due to ageing, arthritis, or disc wear. Other scoliosis cases may also originate from neuromuscular conditions such as cerebral palsy and muscular dystrophy.

Unlike adolescent scoliosis, pain tends to be a more common symptom in adults. Pain can result from asymmetries in musculature and joint alignment due to scoliosis, but may also be caused by other factors, such as work, injuries or co-existing medical conditions, and age-related changes. The spine would have reached full maturity in adults so there is a stronger focus on maintaining the current spinal alignment and function rather than correction.

Common Symptoms in adult scoliosis:

• Pain (e.g. low back pain, sciatica, leg pain)
• Stiffness and fatigue with prolonged activity
• Loss of height or spinal imbalance
• Postural imbalances (e.g. uneven shoulders or hips, spinal curvature to the side when bending down to touch your toes).
• Loss of balance or occurrence of falls.

Physiotherapy Goals for Adults:

• Manage pain and inflammation
• Improve mobility, strength and function
• Falls prevention and balance training
• Address postural compensations and movement limitations
• Improving quality of life
• Prevent or treat respiratory dysfunction in more severe cases

Physiotherapy Options:

• Manual therapy and other modalities (e.g. dry needling, acupuncture) for mobility and symptom relief
• Targeted exercise-based rehabilitation (e.g. strengthening, flexibility, postural correction, stability and balance training).
• Posture correction and ergonomic advice
• Bracing or prescription of gait aids.

Whether you may have adolescent scoliosis or adult scoliosis, physiotherapy treatment is often a crucial tool in effective management. If you have any concerns or are suspecting possible scoliosis, book with us today for a comprehensive scoliosis assessment. We are here to help develop an individualised program with you that meets your spinal health needs and personal goals.