Can Scoliosis Get Worse With Age? What Adults Need to Know

Can Scoliosis Get Worse With Age? What Adults Need to Know.

When most people think of scoliosis, they picture teenagers being screened in middle school. But scoliosis isn’t just a childhood condition—it affects many adults as well. And if left untreated, scoliosis can change over time, sometimes leading to more pain and mobility issues later in life.

So, can scoliosis get worse with age? The answer depends on several factors. Let’s break it down.

Understanding Scoliosis in Adults

Scoliosis is a sideways curve of the spine. In adults, scoliosis usually falls into two categories:

Idiopathic scoliosis carried into adulthood – scoliosis that began during adolescence and continued into adult years.
Degenerative scoliosis – scoliosis that develops later in life due to age-related changes in the spine, such as arthritis or disc degeneration.

Does Scoliosis Progress Over Time?

For many adults, scoliosis can worsen with age, especially if:

The spinal curve was moderate or severe during adolescence.
Natural wear-and-tear on the spine accelerates with aging.
Osteoporosis or disc degeneration weakens spinal stability.

On average, some curves may progress by half a degree to a degree per year— which might not sound like much, but over decades, it can significantly affect posture, mobility, and comfort.

Symptoms Adults May Notice

As scoliosis progresses, symptoms may include:

Chronic back pain or stiffness.
Uneven shoulders, hips, or waist.
Fatigue from prolonged standing or walking.
Tingling or numbness in the legs if nerves are affected.

If you’re experiencing new or worsening back symptoms, scoliosis could be a contributing factor.

Taking the Next Step

Scoliosis doesn’t have to define your future. While it can worsen with age, the right care can make all the difference in how you feel and move each day.

At South Florida Scoliosis Center in Miami, we provide personalized, non-surgical scoliosis treatment for adults and children.

📞 Call us today at 786-565-9217 to schedule your consultation and take the first step toward a healthier spine.

Take Action Now: Book a Screening

If your child is between the ages of 8 and 14, don’t wait for symptoms to appear. A free scoliosis screening can provide peace of mind—or a powerful head start toward treatment.