The correct diagnosis is a crucial first step toward receiving the most effective treatments. Our center's full-body imaging capabilities allow for comprehensive and accurate assessments of spinal alignment and scoliosis. An additional benefit of our imaging services is markedly reduced radiation exposure. This technology generates a 3D model of your spine and lower limbs, providing surgeons with highly detailed information about your unique anatomy to help diagnose your condition.

We are one of a few hospitals in the U.S. — and one of only a handful in Colorado — with this diagnostic system. We are proud to provide you with this advanced imaging technology, and our hope is you'll return to your life quickly and safely.

Our teams of experts are committed to treating a wide range of spine injuries and conditions, including:

• Compression fractures — This condition occurs when there are small breaks in the vertebrae, causing back pain.
• Degenerative spinal conditions — Spinal conditions may include degenerative disc disease, herniated discs, myelopathy, spinal arthritis and spinal stenosis.
• Osteoporosis —This condition occurs due to the loss of bone mass.
• Scheuermann's kyphosis — This skeletal disorder happens when vertebrae grow unevenly and cause a hunched or rounded back.
• Scoliosis in children and adults — This spinal condition results in the sideways curvature of the spine.
• Spinal injuries — Injuries to the spine can be the cause of vehicular accidents, sports injuries and whiplash.
• Spinal tumors — Benign or malignant spinal tumors can require surgery but are very rare.

The services and procedures offered by our team make us one of the premier spine treatment practices in the region. We offer a comprehensive pain management program while constantly adapting to new research and treatment techniques.

Our diagnostic tools and treatments include:

• Advanced orthopedic imaging
• Holistic pain management
• Revision surgery for failed back surgery syndrome (FBSS)

Scoliosis of the spine can occur at birth, at the onset of puberty or later in life, although the causes at each age can be different. In children, scoliosis most commonly affects those with neuromuscular issues, such as spina bifida or muscular dystrophy.

Scoliosis in adolescents

When adolescents develop scoliosis, most individuals only require simple monitoring as they grow into adulthood. Although adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) doesn't have a known cause, there is some research supporting a genetic link. Common signs of AIS include:

• Crooked shoulders
• Frequently leaning on one side
• Head slightly tilting to one side
• One leg seems longer than the other
• One shoulder appears to stick out more
• One hip juts out more
• Rib cage appears uneven or crooked

Scoliosis in adults

Adult scoliosis typically develops when bone deteriorates due to osteoporosis. This type is called adult degenerative scoliosis. The weakened bone mass can cause a sideways curvature that produces symptoms similar to AIS but also includes pain.

Though adults can be diagnosed with idiopathic scoliosis, it's likely the condition developed during adolescence and went unnoticed. Our physicians can answer your questions about scoliosis in children and adults and provide treatment for other spinal conditions and injuries.

Scoliosis treatment options

Most individuals with AIS are monitored as they grow, and the physician keeps track of the curve's progress. The most common and effective treatment for moderate AIS is a back brace. When worn at least 13 hours a day, the back brace can significantly slow or stop the curvature of the spine. In more severe cases, spine surgery may be necessary.

For adults with idiopathic scoliosis, the symptoms of this spine condition can be managed through periodic observation by a doctor, over-the-counter pain relievers, exercise, wearing a brace for short-term pain relief, epidurals or nerve block injections to temporarily relieve persistent leg pain.

Depending on the severity of the curve, surgery may be the best option. The goal of scoliosis surgery is to restore spinal balance and reduce pain and discomfort by relieving nerve pressure, as well as maintain corrected alignment by fusing and stabilizing the spinal segments.