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Does scoliosis get worse as you age?
I'm undergoing chiropractic treatment to help my scoliosis. I'm 28 years old, and I was diagnosed with scoliosis about a month ago. If I don't get this treated now, would it get worse as I age?
1 Answer
The answer depends on the magnitude. Small malalignments less that 20 degrees are unlikely to change much as an adult. However, there is strong evidence that curves greater than 50-60 degrees will progress on average 1 degree per year. Ask your treating provider what the measurements are. If it is 40 degrees or more, talking to a spine surgeon who treats deformities would be appropriate. You might not need anything done for a long time, but your curve should be monitored and so you have it fully documented.
Kevin Jon Lawson, MD