Scoliosis In Adults

Question 1

What is scoliosis in adults due to

Answer 1

1. Degenerative spondylosis/ spondylolisthesis
2. Usually developed during childhood or after skeletal maturity

Question 2

What are the symptoms

Answer 2

1. Pain
2. Radicular pain
3. Decreasing height
4. Enlarged hump

Question 3

What PE tests should you complete

Answer 3

1. Forward flexion
2. Neuro exam

Question 4

What diagnostic test should you complete

Answer 4

1. Radiographs
   *WB full length-AP and lateral
2. EMG/NCV

Question 5

What is the treatment

Answer 5

1. NSAIDS
2. PT (aquatics)
3. Aerobic

Question 6

When should you refer to surgery

Answer 6

1. Progressive pain with progressive deformity
2. Cannot walk >2 blocks secondary to pain, weakness or respiratory dysfunction

Question 7

When to refer to surgery (curvatures)

Answer 7

> 50 with persistent pain
60 always recommended
100 life threatening