Scoliosis and Kyphosis Reconstruction in Las Vegas, NV
Spine Institute of Nevada Treats Scoliosis and Kyphosis
Patients with severe curvature of the spine will find excellent scoliosis and kyphosis reconstruction surgery options at the Spine Institute of Nevada in Las Vegas, NV. If you’ve tried non-surgical methods that haven’t worked or this is your first-time seeking treatment for your condition, the board-certified orthopedic surgical team at our three locations can recommend the best solution to treat your issue. Contact us to schedule a consultation today.
What Is Scoliosis?
Scoliosis is a sideways curvature of the spine causing an “S” or “C” shape that affects both children and adults. Screening should be a part of regular adolescent health exams to look for it. While some curving to the spine is normal to support movement and balance, anything that is 50% or more is an official diagnosis of scoliosis. Most of the cases found in children are mild, but they can worsen with age. Adults may develop scoliosis as they get older when the spine starts to deteriorate, causing changes in posture. Many have wondered if scoliosis is hereditary, and while there are no findings to prove this theory scientifically, evidence suggests there is a connection.
Symptoms and Signs of Scoliosis
Many spine conditions often come with severe pain, and adults with scoliosis may experience some dull back pain. However, since the disease causes a deformity of the spine, adults and children with scoliosis may show visual signs that are easy to spot, including:
- One side of the back is more prominent than the other when bending forward
- One shoulder blade that appears more prominent than the other
- A hip that sits higher than the other
- Uneven shoulders
- Uneven waist
What Is Kyphosis
Kyphosis is another condition involving curvature of the spine, but unlike scoliosis, which causes curving from side to side, kyphosis causes too much forward curve of the spine. It can affect any part of the spine but is most common in the thoracic area. It frequently occurs in adults who have age-related degenerative disc disease. Crushed or broken vertebrae can also cause it. Kyphosis will lead to poor posture and the appearance of a person being hunched over. Even mild cases will cause noticeable posture issues, while more severe cases will be accompanied by back pain. If left untreated, kyphosis can progress and worsen over time.
Symptoms and Signs of Kyphosis
Some slight curve in the middle of the spine in everyone is standard. However, especially as a person ages, more noticeable curving or additional pain in the back could signify a larger issue, such as kyphosis. Symptoms and signs to be aware of include:
- The upper back appears higher than usual when bending forward
- The head leans noticeably more forward compared to the rest of the body
- Rounded shoulders
- A hump in the upper back
- Pain or stiffness in the upper back or shoulder blades
Diagnostic Exams and Tests
Our medical staff will thoroughly examine patients who visit us for any neck & back pain, or spine issues to ensure we diagnose the condition accurately. To determine if scoliosis or kyphosis is the disease we need to treat, we will perform tests and exams that may include:
- A Q&A about your medical history
- Physical exam of the spine
- X-rays
- MRI and CT scans
- Bone density tests
Benefits of Scoliosis and Kyphosis Correction Surgery
The severity of the curvature will determine which treatment option is best for the patient. For minor curvature, we may recommend a brace to help with posture and prevent further advancement of the curve. For more severe cases, patients may undergo fusion surgery. While we always try to find non-surgical options where we can, the benefits of undergoing scoliosis or kyphosis surgery include:
- Stopping the progression of curving
- Reducing pain
- Effectively treating curves that weren’t responding to braces
- Improved appearance of the spine deformity
Visit Our Doctors to Heal Your Condition
If you notice signs of scoliosis or kyphosis in your children or feel pain and notice posture changes as you age, visit the specialists at the Spine Institute of Nevada in Las Vegas, NV. We will complete a comprehensive exam and determine if scoliosis or kyphosis treatment options are best for you. We have three locations throughout Las Vegas, and you can trust our medical professionals to treat your condition effectively. Contact us today.