A landmark study published in Spine highlights the debilitating impact of scoliosis and spinal deformity on the health and quality of life of adult patients. Patients with scoliosis of the lower back and forward-stooped posture (sagittal malalignment) were found to be more disabled — by validated health-related quality of life measures — than patients with significant limitations of arms and legs.
This finding underscores why adult spinal deformity deserves to be taken as seriously as other major musculoskeletal conditions. Patients who are told to “live with it” or that surgery is too risky deserve an honest, expert assessment of what is actually possible — and what the trajectory of their condition looks like without intervention.
Reference: Glassman SD, Berven S, Bridwell K, Horton W, Dimar JR. Correlation of radiographic parameters and clinical symptoms in adult scoliosis. Spine (Phila Pa 1976). 2005;30(6):682–688. PMID 15770185
About Dr. Zeeshan Sardar
Dr. Sardar, MD, MSc, F.R.C.S.C, is Co-Chief of Spinal Deformity Surgery at NewYork-Presbyterian / Columbia University, specializing in adult and adolescent scoliosis, spinal deformity, and complex revision surgery. To schedule a consultation or second opinion, call 212-932-5187 or visit the contact page.
This post is for educational purposes only and does not constitute individualized medical advice. Please consult a qualified spine specialist to discuss your specific condition.