Scoliosis Treatment in Los Angeles

Scoliosis is a condition in which the spine curves sideways, often forming an “S” or “C” shape when viewed from the back. While scoliosis is most often diagnosed during adolescence, adults can also develop scoliosis due to age-related spinal degeneration, prior spinal conditions, osteoporosis, or progression of a curve that began earlier in life. Dr. Sarkiss is a leading provider of scoliosis treatment in Los Angeles, CA. His Global Brain & Spine Institute is a national leader in advanced techniques and positive patient outcomes.

Treating Scoliosis: When and How

The severity of scoliosis can vary significantly between patients. Mild cases of curving may cause little to no discomfort. In contrast, more advanced curves can lead to symptoms such as:

  • Back pain
  • Muscle fatigue
  • Uneven shoulders or hips
  • Rib prominence
  • Posture changes
  • Limited mobility
  • Nerve-related symptoms

Deciding on treatment will involve a thorough evaluation, often including elements such as:

  • Physical exam
  • Posture and gait assessment
  • X-rays to measure the Cobb angle
  • Advanced imaging (when needed)

Early diagnosis helps prevent progression, especially in younger kids who are growing.

Spondylosis and Spondylolisthesis

Spondylosis and spondylolisthesis are two common spinal conditions that can cause persistent back or neck pain. Spondylosis is an age-related degeneration in the spine, including disc thinning, bone spurs, and joint stiffness. It often leads to discomfort, reduced mobility, or nerve irritation.

Spondylolisthesis is a structural issue, typically in the lower back. It happens when one vertebra slips over another, and it may result from injury, stress fractures, or degenerative changes. Symptoms of both conditions can include pain, numbness, or weakness in the back, legs, or arms.

Treatment Options

Treatment options include physical therapy, pain management, and minimally invasive surgical techniques. Whether your symptoms stem from wear and tear or vertebral instability, we’re committed to helping you find relief and regain mobility with compassionate, expert care.

Scoliosis Treatment Options

  • Mild Scoliosis: May only require observation and periodic imaging.
  • Moderate Scoliosis: Can improve with bracing to help prevent progression. Physical therapy may help improve posture and symptoms, especially muscle imbalance or fatigue.
  • Advanced Scoliosis: Surgical correction, like spinal fusion, may be considered. Minimally invasive techniques are used whenever appropriate.

Treatment Goals

  • Improve symptoms
  • Prevent progression
  • Improve posture and balance
  • Protect nerve function
  • Make a healthy, active lifestyle possible

Spine Hemorrhage

A spine hemorrhage is a rare but serious condition involving bleeding within or around the spinal cord. It can result from trauma, vascular malformations, tumors, or certain medical conditions that affect blood vessels or clotting.

Depending on the location of the bleed (epidural, subdural, subarachnoid, or intramedullary), it may put pressure on the spinal cord and nerves, leading to symptoms such as sudden back pain, weakness, numbness, or even paralysis. We use advanced imaging like MRI and CT scans to identify the source and severity of the bleeding.

Treatment Options

Treatment may include emergency surgery to relieve pressure, manage the bleeding, and prevent permanent damage. Our experienced team is equipped to provide rapid, compassionate care for spinal emergencies, with the goal of preserving function and improving outcomes.

If you experience sudden neurological symptoms, seek immediate medical attention.

Scoliosis

Scoliosis is a condition where the spine curves sideways, often in an “S” or “C” shape. While it can develop at any age, it most commonly appears during adolescence. Some cases are mild and cause no noticeable symptoms, while others may lead to back pain, uneven shoulders or hips, and postural changes. In more severe cases, scoliosis can affect lung or heart function due to pressure on the chest cavity.

Treatment Options

Depending on the severity and progression of the curve, treatment options can involve observation, bracing, physical therapy, or surgery. For advanced cases, we offer spinal fusion and other corrective procedures using minimally invasive techniques. Our goal is to improve spinal alignment, reduce discomfort, and help patients maintain an active, healthy lifestyle.

If you or your child shows signs of scoliosis, early assessment is key. Start with a consultation with Dr. Sarkiss for diagnosis and treatment plans.

Spinal Cord Compression

Spinal cord compression occurs when there is pressure on the spinal cord, often due to conditions such as herniated discs, tumors, spinal fractures, or degenerative diseases like arthritis. This pressure can lead to symptoms such as back or neck pain, numbness, weakness, tingling, or even loss of bladder and bowel control in severe cases.

Treatment Options

Treatment options vary depending on the underlying issue and may include medications, physical therapy, corticosteroid injections, or surgical procedures to relieve pressure and stabilize the spine. Our expert team is committed to restoring function, relieving pain, and preserving your quality of life.

If you are experiencing unexplained neurological symptoms or persistent spinal pain, we encourage you to schedule an evaluation.

Spinal Cord Injury

A spinal cord injury occurs when trauma or disease damages the spinal cord, disrupting the communication between the brain and the body. Injuries can result in total or partial loss of function below the injury. Causes include accidents, falls, sports injuries, and medical conditions like infections or tumors.

Treatment Options

Treatment includes advanced diagnostics, surgical intervention when needed, and coordinated rehabilitation to help maximize function and independence. Our compassionate team works closely with patients and their families to develop personalized treatment plans that focus on recovery, support, and improving quality of life.

If you or a loved one has experienced a spinal injury, early intervention is critical for the best outcome.

Spine Fractures & Compression Fractures

Spine fractures, particularly compression fractures, occur when one or more vertebrae break or collapse due to trauma, osteoporosis, cancer, or other spinal conditions. These fractures most commonly affect the thoracic (mid-back) or lumbar (lower back) spine. They can cause sudden back pain, limited mobility, height loss, or spinal deformity such as a hunched posture. Dr. Sarkiss specializes in diagnosing and treating spinal fractures with precision and care.

Treatment Options

After a thorough evaluation using imaging such as X-rays or MRI, Dr. Sarkiss develops a customized treatment plan based on the severity of the fracture and your overall health. Options may include bracing, pain management, physical therapy, and minimally invasive procedures like vertebroplasty or kyphoplasty to stabilize the spine and relieve pain. Our goal is to restore spinal stability, reduce discomfort, and help you return to your normal activities safely and confidently.

Failed Back Syndrome

Failed back syndrome (FBS), also known as failed back surgery syndrome, refers to persistent or recurring pain following spine surgery. Despite technically successful procedures, some patients continue to experience back or leg pain due to scar tissue, nerve damage, spinal instability, or unresolved issues at adjacent levels of the spine.

Living with chronic pain after surgery can be frustrating and disheartening. At our practice, we take a comprehensive, multidisciplinary approach to evaluating and managing failed back syndrome.

Treatment Options

Through advanced imaging, nerve studies, and clinical assessments, we identify the underlying cause of your pain and tailor a treatment plan to your unique needs. Options may include physical therapy, pain management, spinal cord stimulation, or revision surgery if appropriate. Our goal is to reduce pain, restore function, and help you regain a better quality of life.

If you’re still struggling after spine surgery, we’re here to offer expert guidance and renewed hope.

Flatback Syndrome

Flatback syndrome is a condition where the natural curve of the lower spine (lumbar lordosis) is reduced or lost, causing the spine to appear straight and forcing the upper body to lean forward. This imbalance can lead to chronic back pain, fatigue, difficulty standing upright, and limited mobility. It often results from previous spinal surgeries, degenerative disc disease, or congenital spine conditions.

Treatment Options

Using advanced imaging and posture analysis, we evaluate the extent of the spinal imbalance and create a personalized treatment plan. Nonsurgical options may include physical therapy, posture training, and pain management. In more advanced cases, surgical correction may be necessary to restore proper spinal alignment and improve function. Our goal is to reduce pain, improve balance, and help you return to daily activities with greater ease and comfort.

Scoliosis Treatment FAQs

What are the signs of scoliosis?

Scoliosis can begin subtly, but it will begin to present with certain signs as it progresses. Look for visual signs such as:

 

  • Uneven shoulder position
  • Shoulder blade asymmetry (one sticking out more)
  • Uneven hip position or tilted waistline
  • Rib prominence
  • Leaning to one side
  • Clothing fitting unevenly

As for symptoms, ones that can point to scoliosis include:

 

  • Back pain
  • Stiffness
  • Muscle fatigue
  • Leg pain
  • Numbness
  • Weakness

Most cases of scoliosis in adolescents have no single known cause. For adults, it can develop due to spinal degeneration or other deteriorative conditions like osteoporosis. In some, it can be tied to congenital spinal differences due to genetics.

When any signs or symptoms are present, patients should seek evaluation for scoliosis. Even if these are minor, they can point to a condition that could worsen if left untreated. Children and teens in articular need timely evaluation, as spinal curving can worsen during growth spurts. Diagnosis can often be achieved with minimal assessment. Typically, a physical exam and spinal X-rays are sufficient to provide a clear picture. Complex cases may require MRI or CT imaging, such as when evaluation of nerves, spinal discs, or other anatomical elements is needed.

As with most conditions, scoliosis can worsen with time, particularly when untreated. Children and teens are especially prone to worsening symptoms as they grow, which can worsen spinal curvature. Progression risk often depends on patient age and underlying causes.

Many scoliosis cases can be managed without surgery, especially if treated early enough. Surgery is often only needed when severe curving causes pain, impairs function, or compresses nerves.

  • Observation
  • Bracing
  • Physical therapy
  • Core strengthening
  • Posture training
  • Anti-inflammatory medication
  • Pharmaceutical pain management
  • Lifestyle modifications

Bracing typically aims to prevent a curve from worsening rather than to fully correct it. Additionally, braces are usually only used when the patient still has significant growth remaining.

Yes, it can, in many cases. The goal with scoliosis-specific physical therapy is to improve posture, flexibility, core strength, and balance. Together, these can help with pain control and support healthier movement. Patients often see improvements in day-to-day function and in comfort due to reduced muscle strain. Physical therapy is often one component of a broader scoliosis treatment plan.

In cases of surgical intervention, a recovery period is an inevitable but crucial part of the process. Times and experiences vary, but we have included a common timeline below.

 

  • 3 to 6 days of a hospital stay
  • 2 to 6 weeks until return to sedentary work
  • 6 to 12 months for full recovery

Severe scoliosis can reduce space in the chest cavity, affecting lung function. However, such effects are generally limited to advanced cases. Early evaluation can help create a management plan that may reduce the risk of scoliosis progressing to such a state.

Mild scoliosis may remain stable without ever causing major problems. However, some cases can worsen, putting patients at risk for:

 

  • Increasing spinal deformation
  • Chronic pain
  • Posture changes
  • Nerve compression
  • Reduced mobility
  • Breathing issues
  • Heart-related complications

Monitoring is important to catch progression early.