Scoliosis Treatment in NJ

Scoliosis — an abnormal sideways curvature of the spine — affects approximately 6 to 9 million Americans. Whether you’re a parent concerned about your child’s spine or an adult dealing with progressive scoliosis, Dr. Alok Sharan, MD, MHCDS at Awake Spinal Fusion in Edison, NJ provides expert evaluation and individualized treatment plans for all types and severities of scoliosis.

What Is Scoliosis?

A healthy spine, when viewed from the back, appears straight. Scoliosis is a condition where the spine curves sideways, typically forming an “S” or “C” shape. A curve is considered scoliosis when it measures 10 degrees or more on an X-ray (measured by the Cobb angle method).

Scoliosis can range from mild (10-25 degrees) to moderate (25-40 degrees) to severe (40+ degrees). The severity of the curve determines the treatment approach and whether intervention is needed.

Types of Scoliosis

Idiopathic Scoliosis (Most Common — 80% of cases)

The most common type, with no identifiable cause. It is categorized by age of onset:

Adolescent idiopathic scoliosis: Develops between ages 10-18 (most common subtype)
Juvenile idiopathic scoliosis: Develops between ages 3-10
Infantile idiopathic scoliosis: Develops before age 3

Degenerative Scoliosis (Adult Scoliosis)

Develops in adults, usually after age 40, due to age-related degeneration of the spinal discs and joints. This is the most common form of scoliosis seen in the adult population and is often associated with degenerative disc disease and spinal stenosis.

Congenital Scoliosis

Present at birth, caused by malformed vertebrae during fetal development. This type is detected early and may require intervention in childhood.

Neuromuscular Scoliosis

Associated with neurological or muscular conditions such as cerebral palsy, muscular dystrophy, or spinal cord injuries.

Signs and Symptoms

Scoliosis symptoms depend on the severity and type of curve:

Visible Signs

Uneven shoulders — one shoulder blade may protrude more than the other
Uneven waistline or hips
One side of the rib cage appears higher or more prominent
The body leans to one side
Head not centered directly above the pelvis
Clothes hang unevenly

Physical Symptoms

Back pain — especially in adults with degenerative scoliosis
Muscle fatigue — from the muscles working harder to maintain balance
Stiffness and reduced range of motion
Nerve compression symptoms — leg pain, numbness, or weakness (in severe cases)
Difficulty breathing — in severe thoracic curves that restrict lung expansion
Balance problems — difficulty standing straight

Diagnosis

Dr. Sharan uses a comprehensive diagnostic approach:

Physical examination: Adam’s forward bend test, assessment of posture, shoulder and hip symmetry, and neurological function
X-rays: Full-length standing spinal X-rays are the primary tool for diagnosing scoliosis and measuring the Cobb angle
MRI: Used to evaluate the spinal cord, nerve roots, and look for underlying causes (especially important before surgery)
CT scan: Detailed 3D imaging for surgical planning in complex cases
EOS imaging: Low-dose, full-body X-ray system for monitoring scoliosis progression

Non-Surgical Treatment

Treatment depends on the type of scoliosis, severity of the curve, age, and risk of progression:

Observation

For mild curves (10-25 degrees) in adolescents who are still growing, regular monitoring with X-rays every 4-6 months is often sufficient. Many mild curves never progress to the point of needing treatment.

Bracing

For moderate curves (25-40 degrees) in growing adolescents, a brace can prevent the curve from worsening. Modern braces are more comfortable and less visible than older designs. Bracing does not correct the curve but aims to prevent progression until skeletal maturity.

Physical Therapy

Specialized scoliosis physical therapy programs (such as the Schroth method) can help:

Strengthen muscles supporting the spine
Improve posture and body awareness
Reduce pain in adult scoliosis
Slow curve progression

Pain Management for Adult Scoliosis

Anti-inflammatory medications
Epidural steroid injections for nerve-related pain
Facet joint injections
Exercise and flexibility programs

When Is Surgery Recommended?

Adolescents: Curves greater than 45-50 degrees or rapidly progressing curves despite bracing
Adults: Progressive curves causing pain, disability, nerve compression, or balance problems
Neurological symptoms (weakness, numbness) from nerve compression
Severe pain that has not responded to conservative treatment
Cosmetic concerns from significant deformity
Breathing difficulties from severe thoracic curves

Surgical Approaches

Spinal Fusion

The standard surgical treatment for scoliosis. The curved vertebrae are fused together using bone graft and instrumentation (rods, screws, and hooks) to straighten the spine and hold it in the corrected position while the bone heals. Dr. Sharan uses minimally invasive techniques when possible to reduce recovery time.

Minimally Invasive Scoliosis Surgery

For select adult scoliosis cases, Dr. Sharan can perform correction through smaller incisions using advanced surgical navigation and specialized instruments. Benefits include less blood loss, shorter hospital stays, and faster recovery.

Decompression Surgery

For adult degenerative scoliosis causing nerve compression, a laminectomy may be performed to relieve pressure on the nerves, sometimes combined with fusion for stability.

Awake Spine Surgery Techniques

For appropriate scoliosis cases, Dr. Sharan may utilize his awake spine surgery approach for portions of the procedure, allowing patients to benefit from reduced anesthesia risks and faster recovery.

Why Choose Dr. Sharan for Scoliosis Treatment?

Comprehensive evaluation: Thorough diagnostic workup to understand your specific type and severity of scoliosis
Conservative-first approach: Surgery is recommended only when clearly necessary
Minimally invasive expertise: Advanced surgical techniques for shorter recovery
Pioneer in awake spine surgery: Innovative approaches to reduce surgical risk
Personalized treatment plans: Every patient receives an individualized approach
Convenient NJ location: Centrally located in Edison, serving patients across New Jersey

Frequently Asked Questions

Can scoliosis be cured?

Scoliosis cannot be “cured” in the traditional sense, but it can be effectively managed. In adolescents, bracing can prevent progression. Surgery can significantly correct the curve and prevent further worsening. Adults with mild scoliosis can manage symptoms effectively with exercise and physical therapy.

Does scoliosis get worse with age?

It depends on the type. Adolescent idiopathic scoliosis curves greater than 30 degrees may continue to progress at about 0.5-1 degree per year in adulthood. Degenerative adult scoliosis can worsen as disc and joint degeneration progresses. Regular monitoring is important.

Can adults develop scoliosis?

Yes. Degenerative (adult-onset) scoliosis is common and develops due to age-related wear on the spine. Adults can also have idiopathic scoliosis that was present but undiagnosed since adolescence.

Is scoliosis surgery worth it?

For patients with severe or progressive scoliosis causing pain, disability, or neurological symptoms, surgery can be life-changing. Studies consistently show high satisfaction rates among scoliosis surgery patients. Dr. Sharan will thoroughly discuss the expected benefits and risks with you.

How long is recovery from scoliosis surgery?

Recovery varies based on the extent of surgery. Most patients are up and walking within 1-2 days, go home within 3-5 days, and return to desk work within 4-6 weeks. Full recovery with return to all activities typically takes 6-12 months. Dr. Sharan’s minimally invasive approaches can accelerate this timeline.