A spinal deformity refers to a curvature or flattening of the spine. Some deformities become worse with time and can cause pain or other health issues. Common types of deformities include scoliosis, kyphosis and spondylolisthesis. Scoliosis and kyphosis, which are spinal curvatures, can affect people of all ages, although they most commonly occur in adolescents or the elderly. Spondylolisthesis is a deformity in which one spinal bone slips over the one below it. This deformity often occurs in children and older adults.
The causes of spinal curvatures are not fully understood, although hereditary factors are a possibility. Abnormal bone development, muscle weakness or weak ligaments could cause some cases of scoliosis and kyphosis.
Spondylolisthesis can be caused by developmental defects in spinal bones, repetitive trauma, damage from arthritis or infections, stress fractures or other injuries.
After doctors diagnose a spinal deformity, the course of treatment depends on how severe it is or if it is causing any other problems. Spinal curvatures can sometimes be treated with braces to prevent the spinal deformity from becoming worse. Braces can also help those with milder cases of spondylolisthesis. Other forms of treatment for this condition include pain medications, physical therapy and stretching.
When non-surgical treatments do not work, doctors may recommend spinal surgery to correct the deformity and prevent it from getting worse. Doctors might also recommend surgery for the following reasons:
- Curvature is greater than 50 degrees
- Deformity causes considerable pain, makes it difficult to perform normal activities or severely affects one’s physical appearance
- Deformity becomes worse
- Spondylolisthesis causes leg numbness or loss of bladder control