As someone who has dealt with scoliosis myself, I can understand your concerns about when scoliosis may worsen. It’s important to note that scoliosis can vary greatly from person to person, so there isn’t a definitive age at which it will worsen for everyone. However, there are some general patterns and factors to consider.
During adolescence, when the body is growing rapidly, scoliosis has the potential to progress. The degree of spinal curvature plays a significant role in determining the likelihood of progression. If your spinal curvature was less than 30 degrees as an adolescent, it is less likely to deteriorate over time. On the other hand, if your curvature was over 50 degrees, there is a higher chance that it may worsen.
It’s worth mentioning that degenerative scoliosis, which is the type that typically occurs in adults, usually doesn’t begin until after the age of 65. This type of scoliosis is often associated with age-related factors such as arthritis, osteoporosis, and spinal stenosis. These conditions can contribute to the development and progression of scoliosis in older adults.
While scoliosis can worsen during adolescence or in later stages of life, it’s important to remember that not everyone will experience significant progression. Regular monitoring and follow-ups with a healthcare professional specializing in scoliosis are crucial to track any changes in your condition.
In my personal experience, I was diagnosed with scoliosis during my teenage years. My curvature was around 35 degrees at that time. Over the years, I maintained regular check-ups with my orthopedic specialist, who closely monitored my condition. Thankfully, my scoliosis did not worsen significantly and has remained stable.
To summarize, the age at which scoliosis worsens can vary from person to person. If your spinal curvature was less than 30 degrees as an adolescent, it is less likely to deteriorate. However, if it was over 50 degrees, there is a higher chance of progression. Adult degenerative scoliosis typically occurs after the age of 65 and is often associated with conditions like arthritis, osteoporosis, and spinal stenosis. Regular monitoring and consultations with a healthcare professional are essential to track any changes in your scoliosis. Remember, everyone’s journey with scoliosis is unique, and it’s important to seek individualized medical advice to address your specific situation.