Scoliosis, Kyphosis and Spinal Deformity Care

Scoliosis and kyphosis are both spinal deformities — a sideways curve and a forward-rounding curve respectively — and the right treatment depends heavily on the degree of curvature, its cause, and whether it is affecting nerve function.

What scoliosis and kyphosis are

Scoliosis is a sideways curvature of the spine that often forms an "S" or "C" shape, and while it can occur at any age, it is most often diagnosed in adolescence. Kyphosis is an exaggerated forward rounding of the upper back; it can appear at any age but is more common in older adults, frequently related to osteoporosis or degenerative change. Both conditions are considered types of spinal deformity, and in some cases significant curvature or associated degenerative narrowing can contribute to spinal cord or nerve compression, which is why imaging plays an important role in assessment.

Symptoms

Scoliosis commonly presents with uneven shoulders, a more prominent ribcage on one side, an uneven waistline, and — particularly in adults — back pain and muscle fatigue from the uneven spine. Kyphosis presents as a visibly rounded upper back, often with pain in more severe cases, stiffness, and reduced flexibility, along with fatigue from the muscles working harder to support the curved spine. When either condition involves significant nerve or spinal cord compression, additional symptoms such as tingling, numbness, or weakness in the limbs may develop, though this is not typical in mild cases.

What causes spinal deformity

Most scoliosis is idiopathic, meaning no specific cause is identified, though congenital spinal malformation, neuromuscular conditions such as cerebral palsy, and age-related degeneration can also lead to curvature. Kyphosis has a similarly varied set of causes: long-standing postural habits, Scheuermann's disease (a developmental condition affecting how vertebrae grow), osteoporosis-related vertebral fractures, degenerative conditions such as arthritis, and congenital spinal malformation.

When to see a doctor

A gradual, mild curve noticed on a school screening or routine check-up is not an emergency, and many curves are simply monitored over time. It is worth booking a consultation for a visible curve, uneven shoulders or waistline, or back pain that persists. Seek prompt medical attention if numbness, tingling, or weakness develops in the arms or legs, or if there is any change in bladder or bowel control, as this can indicate spinal cord involvement that benefits from timely evaluation — this is uncommon, and most spinal deformity does not reach this point.

How spinal deformity is diagnosed

Assessment starts with a physical examination, including a visual inspection of the spine and posture and a forward-bend test to look for asymmetry. X-rays are used to measure the exact degree of curvature (the Cobb angle for scoliosis), while MRI or CT scans give more detailed pictures of the spinal cord, nerves, and any underlying structural cause, particularly when nerve symptoms are present.

Non-surgical treatment options

For mild curves, regular observation with periodic X-rays to monitor progression is often all that is needed. In growing children and adolescents, bracing can help prevent further curvature. Physical therapy focused on posture, core strength, and flexibility supports both scoliosis and kyphosis management, and pain relievers, heat or ice therapy, and massage can help with discomfort along the way.

Surgical options and who they suit

Surgery is generally considered for curves that are severe, progressive despite bracing, or causing significant pain or nerve symptoms. Spinal fusion — using rods and screws to correct and stabilise the curve — is the main surgical approach for both conditions. For kyphosis linked to osteoporotic vertebral fractures, minimally invasive procedures such as vertebroplasty or kyphoplasty may be used to stabilise the fracture; you can read more about minimally invasive spine surgery generally. Whether surgery is appropriate depends heavily on the degree of curvature and its trajectory, which your surgeon will assess individually.

Recovery expectations

With bracing and physiotherapy, improvement is measured in slowed or halted progression of the curve rather than a quick fix, and this is monitored over months. After spinal fusion surgery, recovery generally involves an initial period of restricted activity while the fusion stabilises, followed by a gradual return to normal activity guided by your surgeon — the exact timeline depends on the extent of the fusion and is best discussed for your specific case.

What influences the cost of treatment

Cost depends on whether treatment is observation, bracing, or surgery, and — for surgical correction — the number of spinal levels involved, the implants used, and length of hospital stay. Call or WhatsApp NAIR Spine & Knee Clinic for a personalised estimate after consultation.

What a consultation involves

A consultation includes a physical examination of your posture and spine, a review of any existing imaging, and a discussion of the degree of curvature found. Dr. Vishnu Vikraman Nair will explain whether observation, bracing, physiotherapy, or surgical correction is the most appropriate next step. Consultations are available at NAIR Spine & Knee Clinic, Kharghar and New Era Hospital, Vashi; call or WhatsApp the clinic to confirm the current consulting schedule.