If you or your child has been diagnosed with scoliosis or another spinal curvature, you need answers from a team that understands both the condition and how it affects growth, posture, and daily life. Patients seeking scoliosis and spinal deformity treatment in New York can turn to Long Island Neurosurgical Associates (LINA) for comprehensive evaluation and treatment by a neurosurgical team experienced in spinal deformity across all ages.
Spinal deformity refers to abnormal curvature or alignment of the spine, most commonly scoliosis (a sideways curve) or kyphosis (excessive forward rounding). These conditions can develop during childhood growth, from degenerative changes in adulthood, or following prior spine surgery or injury.
Our team helps patients and families understand the type and severity of the curve, what treatment options might be right for them, and what to do next. Depending on the patient’s age and the degree of curvature, care may include observation, bracing, physical therapy, or corrective spinal surgery.
What Is Scoliosis and Spinal Deformity?
A healthy spine, viewed from behind, runs in a straight line. Scoliosis occurs when the spine curves sideways, often in an “S” or “C” shape, while kyphosis involves excessive rounding of the upper back. Spinal deformity can also involve a combination of curves in different directions.
In children and adolescents, most scoliosis is idiopathic, meaning no single cause is identified, though it can also occur alongside congenital spine differences present from birth or certain neuromuscular conditions. In adults, spinal deformity most often develops gradually from degenerative changes in the discs and joints of the spine, though it can also result from an untreated curve from adolescence.
Not every curve requires treatment. Many mild curves are simply monitored over time, while larger or progressive curves may benefit from bracing or surgical correction.
Signs Patients and Parents Should Look For
Scoliosis and spinal deformity are often first noticed by a parent, a school screening, or a primary care physician, though adults may notice changes themselves. Signs to watch for include:
- Uneven shoulders, shoulder blades, or waistline
- One hip appearing higher than the other
- A visible curve or rotation of the spine when bending forward
- Back pain that worsens with standing or activity
- Noticeable loss of height or a stooped posture in adults
- Difficulty standing upright for long periods
- In more advanced cases, numbness, weakness, or changes in walking
Children with a mild curve are often simply monitored with periodic imaging, since curves can progress during growth spurts. Adults with new or worsening back pain, posture changes, or nerve-related symptoms should seek an evaluation to determine whether a spinal deformity is contributing to their symptoms.
Patients also seek second opinions from Long Island Neurosurgical Associates. If you or your child has already been diagnosed and you want to better understand treatment recommendations, bracing, timing of surgery, or expectations for recovery, our team can help explain the next steps.
Evaluation and Diagnosis
A complete physical and neurological exam starts every evaluation, including an assessment of posture, curve flexibility, and any signs of nerve involvement. The specialist will also review growth history in children or degenerative changes in adults.
Imaging is central to diagnosing and monitoring spinal deformity. Standing X-rays are typically used to measure the degree of curvature and track changes over time, while an MRI or CT scan may be recommended if nerve compression, congenital abnormalities, or other structural concerns are suspected.
During your visit, patients and families are told exactly what type of curve is present, how severe it is, whether it is likely to progress, and what treatment approach is appropriate.
Treatment Options for Patients
Not all cases of scoliosis or spinal deformity are treated the same way. The treatment plan is based on:
- The type, location, and degree of the curve
- The patient’s age and remaining growth potential, if a child
- Whether the curve is progressing over time
- The presence of pain, nerve symptoms, or functional limitations
- The patient’s overall health and goals
Many patients with mild curves are managed with observation alone, while moderate curves in growing children may be treated with bracing to help prevent further progression. Surgery is generally considered for larger or progressive curves, or when a curve is affecting nerve function or quality of life.
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