Scoliosis Rochester, NY | Expert Care

What is Scoliosis?

Scoliosis is a condition where the spine curves sideways in an S or C shape. These spinal curvatures are not caused by poor posture. An X‑ray is usually needed to confirm scoliosis and measure the curve. The UR Medicine Spine Center provides complete care for scoliosis in children, teens, and adults — from mild scoliosis that needs monitoring to complex curves that may require surgery.

Types of Scoliosis

Most people with scoliosis have adolescent idiopathic scoliosis — the most common type that appears during the growth spurt between ages 10–18. Other types of scoliosis include:

Congenital scoliosis: Present at birth due to differences in how the spinal bones formed.
Neuromuscular scoliosis: Related to conditions that affect the nerves and muscles, such as cerebral palsy or muscular dystrophy, spina bifida, or spinal cord injury.
Degenerative scoliosis (adult): Develops later in life as the joints and discs in the back wear down.

What are the Symptoms of Scoliosis?

Symptoms of scoliosis can be subtle. A physical exam often detects:

Uneven shoulders or a shoulder blade that sticks out more on one side
A visible curve or leaning to one side
Rib cage prominence on one side when bending forward
One hip higher than the other or an uneven waist
In adults, back pain or fatigue with standing and walking

Some curves stay small and never cause problems. Others progress and may affect the rib cage, balance of the shoulders and hips, or lung function. Early diagnosis helps guide safe activity, choose the right brace when needed, and decide if surgery could help.

What Causes Scoliosis?

Most scoliosis in children and teens is idiopathic — meaning a single cause is not clear. Other types of scoliosis are due to differences in spine formation (congenital scoliosis) or conditions that affect muscle and nerve control (neuromuscular scoliosis).

UR Medicine's Treatments for Scoliosis

The UR Medicine Spine Center’s highly trained healthcare team includes specialists in Orthopaedics, Neurosurgery, and Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation and offer expert diagnoses and treatment for all types of scoliosis.

How is Scoliosis Diagnosed?

Your provider will do a physical exam and review your medical history. They may also use:

Adam’s forward bend test: You bend forward while they look for rib or back asymmetry.
Standing spine X‑rays to measure curve size (Cobb angle) and check for spinal curvatures in different areas of the spine.
Low‑dose EOS imaging when appropriate for children and teens to limit radiation exposure.
MRI if there are symptoms that suggest a problem with the spinal cord or nerves.

How is Scoliosis Treated?

Treatment will depend on age, remaining growth, curve size, and symptoms. We will discuss all the options and create a plan that fits your goals. Treatment may include:

Observation (watchful waiting)

For mild scoliosis (small curves), your provider may simply monitor with regular exams and X‑rays. Staying active and doing core‑strengthening exercises are encouraged.

Bracing

If a child or teen is still growing and the curve is moderate, they may need to wear a brace. Bracing can keep curves from getting worse during growth. Our team works closely with Orthotics & Prosthetics to select and fit the right brace and to support your child as they adapt to daily wear.

Physical Therapy

Physical therapy can improve posture, strength, and comfort. Your care team may recommend scoliosis‑specific exercises and guidance on safe activities.

Pain Management

For degenerative scoliosis, non‑surgical care may include physical therapy, medications, and targeted injections to reduce pain and improve function.

Surgery

Surgery is considered for large or progressive curves, or when pain or function do not improve with other care. The most common operation is spinal fusion, which uses rods, screws, and bone graft to straighten and stabilize the spine. Your surgeon will discuss benefits, risks, and recovery based on your unique needs.

What Sets Us Apart?

Comprehensive team: Orthopaedic and neurosurgical spine specialists, pediatric orthopaedists, physiatrists, anesthesiologists, and advanced practice providers work together on your plan.
Pediatric and adult expertise: Nationally recognized and fellowship-trained orthopaedic surgeons who specialize in complex scoliosis care, including the latest surgical techniques and care for infant, children, teens, and adults.
Personalized support: Bracing programs, Schroth physical therapy programs, and shared decision‑making for surgery when needed.
Proven success: The longest history of treating conditions of the spine in the multi-county region. More than 19,000 patients come to the UR Medicine Spine Center every year.
Latest technologies and research-guided care: Access to clinically effective treatments that use the newest technologies, including computer-guided surgery, minimally invasive surgery, and physical therapy and rehabilitation.
Low‑dose imaging: Access to EOS technology for children who need frequent X‑rays.