Low Back & Pelvis
Adult Degenerative Scoliosis
Also called: De novo scoliosis
A side-curvature of the spine developing in adulthood from asymmetric disc and joint degeneration (distinct from adolescent scoliosis carried into adulthood). Pain typically comes from the degenerating segments and muscle fatigue — and often from associated stenosis — more than from the curve number itself.
Common signs
- Progressive low back ache with standing tolerance shrinking
- Visible asymmetry: uneven waist, one hip prominent
- Leg symptoms if stenosis coexists
- Fatigue-type pain that builds through the day
Seek help now if
- Progressive neurological deficits
- Rapid curve progression
- Systemic symptoms with new pain
Any of these: call 911 or get to an emergency room first. Everything else can wait.
What to do first
- Standing full-spine X-rays establish the curve, balance, and a baseline for monitoring
- Exam separates the pain generators: joints, muscles, nerve canals — each treatable
- Begin a spine-strengthening and walking program; deconditioning accelerates everything
If it's become chronic
- Management is functional: strength (especially trunk and hips), mobility, walking capacity, flare control — measured against your goals, not the curve angle alone
- Monitor with periodic standing films; symptomatic stenosis may need targeted care
- Surgical consultation is reserved for progressive curves with declining function or neurology
Natural healing options we use
- Chiropractic care for mobility and symptom management
- Scoliosis-specific exercise approaches adapted to adults
- Manual therapy for overworked convex-side musculature
- PEMF and attended e-stim during flares
- Bone health nutrition (vitamin D, K2, protein, resistance training)
About imaging
Standing full-spine X-rays for diagnosis and periodic monitoring; MRI when leg symptoms suggest stenosis.
Daily self-care
- Daily walking and 2–3× weekly strengthening
- Change positions frequently; use supportive seating
- Track standing/walking tolerance monthly as your progress metric
More in Low Back & Pelvis
Lumbar Sprain/StrainLumbar Disc HerniationSciatica / Lumbar RadiculopathyLumbar Facet SyndromeLumbar Degenerative Disc DiseaseLumbar Spinal StenosisSpondylolysisSpondylolisthesis
Please read: this page is education, not a diagnosis. A proper examination is how a condition gets confirmed and a plan gets built. See our medical disclaimer.