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

If any of these is sudden or severe, call 911 or go to an emergency room. For the others, get examined before you start self-care.

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

The longer road

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 the overworked muscles on the outer side of the curve
PEMF and attended e-stim during flares
Bone health support (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

Book a visit Call 469-620-6245 All conditions

How we can help

Keep working on it at home

Once you have been examined and cleared to load it, these free home programs cover this part of the body.

Low back Bulletproofing Hips & pelvis Bulletproofing The Body Audit: test your own range

More in Low Back & Pelvis

Lumbar Sprain/Strain Lumbar Disc Herniation Sciatica / Lumbar Radiculopathy Lumbar Facet Syndrome Lumbar Degenerative Disc Disease Lumbar Spinal Stenosis Spondylolysis Spondylolisthesis Sacroiliac (SI) Joint Dysfunction Piriformis Syndrome / Deep Gluteal Pain Coccydynia Pregnancy-Related Pelvic Girdle & Low Back Pain Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis

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.