Comprehensive Scoliosis Care from Experienced Spine Specialists
Scoliosis Treatment in Knoxville, TN
Our Specialty
Scoliosis Treatment
Scoliosis develops when the spine curves abnormally instead of maintaining its normal alignment. The condition may be classified as adolescent idiopathic scoliosis, degenerative scoliosis, congenital scoliosis, or neuromuscular scoliosis. In adults, scoliosis commonly develops as discs and joints wear down over time, causing the spine to gradually shift out of alignment.
Common signs and symptoms include:
- Uneven shoulders or hips
- One shoulder blade appearing higher than the other
- Chronic back pain or stiffness
- Muscle fatigue after standing or walking
- Difficulty maintaining good posture
- Numbness, tingling, or weakness if nerves become compressed
A comprehensive evaluation by a spine specialist can determine whether scoliosis is contributing to your symptoms.
Personalized Scoliosis Treatment at TOA
At Tennessee Orthopaedic Alliance, treatment begins with a thorough examination and advanced imaging, including X-rays, MRI, or CT scans, when appropriate. Understanding the degree of curvature, spinal stability, and any nerve involvement allows our specialists to develop a treatment plan tailored to your individual needs.
Most patients do not require surgery. Conservative treatment may include physical therapy, core strengthening exercises, anti-inflammatory medications, activity modification, and image-guided spinal injections to reduce pain and improve function. If symptoms continue despite non-surgical treatment or the spinal curve progresses significantly, spine surgery may be recommended. Our orthopedic spine surgeons utilize advanced surgical techniques, including minimally invasive spine surgery when appropriate, to improve spinal alignment, relieve nerve pressure, and restore spinal stability.
Whether your scoliosis is newly diagnosed or has gradually worsened over time, our goal at Tennessee Orthopaedic Alliance is to help you return to your normal activities with less pain and greater confidence. Schedule an appointment today.
NECK, BACK AND SPINE CONDITIONS AND TREATMENTS
Did you know that, on average, roughly 90% of all spine conditions do not require surgery? But, if yours does, our spine surgery team has your back.
- Bulging Disc
- Herniated Disc
- Ruptured Disc
- Arthritis
- Osteoarthritis
- Osteoporosis
- Scoliosis
- Spondylosis
- Spinal Degeneration
- Discectomy
- Spinal Fusion
- Spinal Stenosis
- Microdiscectomy
- Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion
- Neck Fusion
- Lower Back Surgery
DO YOU STRUGGLE WITH ANY OF THESE COMMON SPINE PROBLEMS?
- Pain in the neck and shoulder, radiating down the arm
- Pain in the neck, and pins and needles in hands
- Back or neck pain that makes you cancel or leave events early
- Back pain or bone spurs in the neck that make it hard to sleep
- Sudden back pain where you can’t move
- A tender spot on the spine when it’s pressed
- A protruding bone at the base of the neck or skull
- Radiating upper back pain
- Legs giving way with back pain
- Back pain that radiates down both legs
- A herniated, bulging, or slipped disc
- A torn disc
If so, we strongly encourage you to visit a spine specialist.
ARE THESE AUTOMATIC SIGNS YOU NEED BACK SURGERY?
Not necessarily. Many spine troubles can be treated without surgery. Physical therapy, medications, and environmental adjustments can be used to successfully treat many back problems.
AT WHAT POINT DO YOU NEED SPINE SURGERY?
This depends on your specific problem, and how bad it is. If you have tried alternative treatments and your spine issues haven’t improved, you may be a candidate for surgery.
You’ll need one thing no matter what your treatment plan is—a comprehensive assessment by a spine specialist. With a thorough assessment and history, one of our specialists can help determine what your spine may need. Know what your options are, and take part in putting together a plan that works for your lifestyle.
Spine and back problems are too big to ignore. They reduce your mobility, comfort level, and quality of life. You should not have to adjust your work and play schedule due to treatable spine issues. Our spine surgeons want to help you get back to your normal daily activities as soon as possible.
VISIT A TOA SPINE SURGEON
Your spine health is important to us. Our team of both spinal surgeons and non-surgical specialists will help return you to your daily activities as quickly as possible.
We provide our patients with More Locations and Convenient Care in East Tennessee, including Knoxville, Oak Ridge, Lenoir City and Sevierville.
IMPROVE YOUR MOBILITY WITH OUR SPINE SOLUTIONS
Are you experiencing muscle ache, shooting or stabbing pain, or pain that worsens after activity? Does the thought of having to pick something up off the floor or walk down to the mailbox make you cringe?
Then it’s time to schedule an appointment with one of our Spine specialists to determine the cause of your pain and develop a plan of recovery.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can scoliosis get worse over time?
Yes. While some mild spinal curves remain stable, others may gradually worsen, particularly during periods of rapid growth in children or because of degenerative changes in adults. Regular evaluations help monitor the condition and determine whether treatment is necessary before symptoms become more severe.
Does scoliosis always require surgery?
No. Most patients with scoliosis can be successfully managed with conservative treatments. Physical therapy, strengthening exercises, pain management, and lifestyle modifications often help control symptoms and improve function. Surgery is typically recommended only when the spinal curve continues to progress, causes significant pain, affects nerve function, or interferes with everyday activities.
What happens during a scoliosis evaluation?
Your spine specialist will review your medical history, discuss your symptoms, perform a physical examination, and evaluate your posture and spinal alignment. Diagnostic imaging, including X-rays and sometimes MRI or CT scans, may be ordered to accurately measure the spinal curve and determine the most appropriate treatment plan.
Can adults develop scoliosis later in life?
Yes. Adult degenerative scoliosis can develop as the discs, joints, and ligaments of the spine naturally wear down over time. This type of scoliosis is often associated with arthritis, spinal degeneration, and chronic back pain. Early treatment can help improve mobility and reduce discomfort before symptoms progress.
When should I see a spine specialist for scoliosis?
You should schedule an evaluation if you notice changes in posture, uneven shoulders or hips, persistent back pain, difficulty standing upright, numbness or weakness in your arms or legs, or if you’ve been told you have scoliosis and your symptoms are worsening. Early diagnosis allows your provider to recommend the most effective treatment and helps preserve long-term spinal health.
If you are experiencing scoliosis symptoms, the spine specialists at Tennessee Orthopaedic Alliance provide comprehensive evaluation and treatment for patients throughout Knoxville, Oak Ridge, Lenoir City, Sevierville, and East Tennessee. Our team is committed to helping you find lasting relief through personalized, evidence-based spine care.
Our Spine Team
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