Degenerative Scoliosis

Degenerative scoliosis is a type of spinal curve that occurs due to changes that happen as the spine ages. It is linked to the degeneration of the discs, facet joints, and other structures in the spine over time. It is usually occurs in people aged 50 and older and is characterized by degenerative changes that progress with age. Degenerative scoliosis leads to the breakdown of the normal structure of the spine, causing curves to develop. This can result in pain and loss of function in the back and lower back areas.

Content

1. What is Degenerative Scoliosis?
2. What Causes Degenerative Scoliosis?
3. What are the Symptoms of Degenerative Scoliosis?
4. What are the Treatments for Degenerative Scoliosis?

What is Degenerative Scoliosis?

Degenerative scoliosis is a conditions where the spine’s curve gets worse over time. Scoliosis happens when one or more bones in the spine (vertebrae) curve more than normal. Degenerative scoliosis develops as a result of aging and the changes it causes in the spine. This condition can happen due to the breakdown of discs between the vertebrae, bone deformities or weakening of the muscles that support the spine. Degenerative scoliosis usually appears as part pf the aging process and is often accompanied by symptoms like lower back pain, reduced spine flexibility and posture problems. Treatment options mainly focus on easing symptoms and managing the spinal curve. These can include physical therapy, medications spine exercises and sometimes surgery.

What Causes Degenerative Scoliosis?

The main causes of degenerative scoliosis are :

1. Disc Degeneration
   • The intervertebral discs in the spine lose water and protein content over time. This causes the discs to thin and lose flexibility. Discs act as shock absorbers between vertebrae and their degeneration can affect spine stability leading to curvature.
2. Facer Joint Degeneration
   • Facet joints, the small joints between vertebrae, wear out and degenerate as part of the aging process. This affects the spine’s movement and stability. Facet joint degeneration can cause abnormal vertebrae movement, leading to spinal curvature.
3. Osteoporosis
   • Loss of bone density weakens the spine and makes it more prone of deformities. Osteoporosis can make spinal bones fragile, causing them to easily deform.
4. Genetic Factors
   • Individuals with a family history of degenerative scoliosis have a higher risk of developing the condition. Genetics can influence the structure of the spine and the likelihood of degenerative changes.
5. Trauma and Strain
   • Repeated trauma or excessive straing on the spine can speed up degenerative changes. Factors like heavy lifting, poor posture and non-ergonomic work conditions put extra stress on the spine.
6. Sedentary Lifestyle
   • Low physical activity can lead to weakened muscles, reducing spine support. Weak muscles contribute to faster spine degeneration.

What are the Symptoms of Degenerative Scoliosis?

The symptoms of degenerative scoliosis include:

• Lower Back Pain: As the spine curves, pain can develop in the lower back. This pain may get worse throughout the day and with activities like sitting or standing for long periods.
• Posture Issues: Degenerative scoliosis can affect a person’s posture. As the spine curves, the shoulders may not be level or one side may be higher than the other.
• Reduced Spine Flexibility: As scoliosis progresses the spine become less flexible. This can limit movement and make daily activities more difficult .
• Fatigue: Due to spinal deformity and pain, people may feel more tired while doing daily tasks.
• Numbness or Weakness in Legs and Feet: As the spine curves, it can compress nerves leading to numbness, tingling or weakness in the legs and feet.
• Breathing or Digestive Problems: In rare cases, the spinal curve can put pressure on the lungs or digestive organs, causing breathing or digestion issues.

What are the Treatments for Degenerative Scoliosis?

Treatment for degenerative scoliosis depends on the severity of symptoms, the patient’s overall health and the degree of spine curvature. The treatment options are generally divided into conservative (non-surgical) and surgical methods.

1. Physical Therapy
   • Exercise Programs: Special exercises are designed to strengthen the muscles supporting the spine and improve flexibility. These exercises help stabilize the spine and reduce pain.
   • Posture and Ergonomic Training: Patients receive training on proper posture techniques and ergonomic work conditions to reduce stress on the spine.
2. Pain Management:
   • Pain Relievers and Anti-Inflammatuary Drugs: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and pain relievers can be used to reduce pain.
   • Epidural Steroid Injections: Steroids injected around specific nerve roots can reduce inflammation and pain.
   • Muscle Relaxant: These can be used to relieve muscle spasms.
3. Bracing
   • Short-term bracing can support the spine and reduce pain, especially in severe cases. However, long-term use can weaken the muscles, so it should be done carefully.
4. Alternative Treatments:
   • Acupuncture: Some patients find relief with acupunture.
   • Massage Therapy: Helps reduce muscle tension and provides relaxation.

Surgical Treatments Options

Surgical options are considered for patients who do not respond to conservative treatments or who have severe deformities and neuological symptoms. Surgical treatments include:

1. Spinal Fusion:
   • This procedure involves fusing two or more vertebrae to stabilize the spine. It can stop the spine from curving further and reduce pain. Spinal fusion is on of the most common surgical methods for treating degenerative scoliosis.
2. Decompression Surgery:
   • Decompression surgery is performed to relieve pressure on a nerve root or the spinal cord. It is used in cases like spinal stenosis (narrowing of the spinal cana) combined with degenerative scoliosis. The surgery helps reduce nerve compression and relieve neurological symptoms.
3. Instrumentation and Stabilization:
   • Metal rods, screws and hooks are used to stabilize the spine. These techniques can be combined with spinaş fusion to help maintain the proper alignment of the spine.

Other Supportive Treatments

• Lifestyle Changes
  • Regular Exercise: Omurgayı destekleyen kasları güçlendirmek için düzenli egzersiz önemlidir.
  • Healthy Diet: Kemik sağlığını desteklemek için kalsiyum ve D vitamini açısından zengin bir diyet benimsenmelidir.
  • No Smoking: Sigara içmek kemik sağlığını olumsuz etkiler ve iyileşme sürecini yavaşlatır.
• Psychological Support:
  • Chronic pain and movement limitations can cause psychological stress. Psychological support and counseling can help patient cope with these challenges.

Concluison

Treatment for degenerative scoliosis is personalized according to the patient’s specific condition and symptoms. With early diagnosis and proper treatment, symptoms can be managed and quality of life can be improved. Both conservative and surgical treatment options can effectively help maintain spinal health and reduce pain. Therefore it is important for people with symptoms to consult a healthcare professional to receive appropriate treatment.