Adult Scoliosis

Scoliosis is a sideways curvature of the spine with an element of rotation. In adults it may be a curve that has been present since adolescence, or one that develops later as the spine’s discs and joints change with age (degenerative scoliosis). Many adults with scoliosis live comfortably, while others experience pain, stiffness, or concerns about posture and progression. Physiotherapy assessment at Goji Physio in Lentor, Singapore clarifies how your curve affects you and guides a targeted, exercise-based plan to manage symptoms and support spinal function.

What causes adult scoliosis?

Adult scoliosis generally falls into two broad groups:

• Adult idiopathic scoliosis: a curve that began in adolescence and has continued into adulthood
• Degenerative (de novo) scoliosis: a curve that develops later in life as the discs and facet joints wear, more common with age

Factors such as bone density, muscle strength, and overall activity levels can influence symptoms. Importantly, the size of a curve does not reliably predict how much pain or difficulty a person experiences - which is why individual assessment matters.

What are the signs adult scoliosis is affecting you?

Adults with scoliosis may notice:

• Back pain or stiffness, sometimes worse with prolonged standing or walking
• A visible curve, a marked protraction of one shoulder blade, uneven waist angles or hip height
• A sense of the trunk shifting or leaning to one side
• Fatigue in the back with sustained postures
• In degenerative curves, leg symptoms if surrounding nerves are affected

Any new or progressive lower limb weakness, numbness, or changes in bladder or bowel control should be reviewed medically without delay.

What does a session at Goji involve?

Your physiotherapist will take a history of your curve, symptoms, and daily demands, followed by a physical assessment that may include:

• Postural and curve assessment: observing the curve and how your trunk and pelvis align
• Movement and flexibility testing: how your spine and surrounding regions move
• Strength and control: assessing the muscles that support the trunk
• Functional review: how the curve affects standing, walking, and the activities important to you

Our clinicians are experienced in scoliosis-specific exercise approaches, including the Schroth method (Physiotherapy Scoliosis Specific Exercises) - a system of curve-specific exercises, breathing, and postural training. You will leave with a clear picture of your presentation and a personalised programme.

How is adult scoliosis managed?

Management is usually conservative and centred on active care: curve-specific and general strengthening exercise, mobility work, postural education, and pain-management strategies. The goals are to reduce discomfort, maintain function and activity, and support the spine over the long term. Where a curve is large, progressing, or causing significant symptoms, physiotherapy works alongside your doctor or spinal specialist.

Frequently asked questions

Can physiotherapy straighten my spine?

Physiotherapy does not aim to reverse an established adult curve. The focus is on managing symptoms, building strength and control, maintaining function, and supporting the spine - which many adults find genuinely helpful for daily life.

What is the Schroth method?

Schroth is a scoliosis-specific exercise approach that uses individualised exercises, breathing techniques, and postural awareness tailored to the shape and direction of your curve. It is taught and progressed by trained physiotherapists.

Can scoliosis exercises help with back pain?

Exercise is a core part of managing scoliosis-related back pain. Scoliosis-specific exercises such as the Schroth method, together with general strengthening and mobility work, aim to build the strength and control that support the spine and ease day-to-day discomfort. Your physiotherapist will tailor the programme to your curve and symptoms.

Will my scoliosis get worse as I age?

Some curves remain stable while others change gradually over time, particularly degenerative curves. Regular assessment, staying active, and maintaining strength are sensible ways to support your spine. Your physiotherapist will advise on monitoring and when specialist review is appropriate.

Is exercise safe with scoliosis?

Yes - staying active is important. Exercise is generally beneficial, and a physiotherapist can guide which activities and loading are appropriate for your curve and symptoms.

Do I need to see a spinal surgeon?

Most adults with scoliosis are managed conservatively and do not need surgery. Specialist referral is considered for large or progressing curves, significant nerve symptoms, or pain that is not responding - and your physiotherapist can help coordinate this.