Spinal Deformities in Adults

Spinal deformities can develop during adolescence as the spine grows or later in life due to aging, injury, or degenerative conditions. Some spinal deformities progress over time, leading to pain, mobility issues, and postural changes that can impact daily life.

At UPMC, our team of specialists provides cutting-edge treatments for spinal deformities using the latest surgical techniques and minimally invasive procedures. We focus on correcting spinal alignment, relieving pain, and improving overall function to enhance our patients’ quality of life.

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What Are Spinal Deformities?

Spinal deformities refer to abnormal curvatures or misalignments of the spine that can affect posture, movement, and nerve function. These conditions may be congenital (present at birth), developmental (progressing during growth), or degenerative (occurring with age).

Common symptoms of spinal deformities include:

• Chronic back or neck pain.
• Difficulty breathing in severe cases.
• Difficulty standing upright or walking.
• Nerve-related symptoms — such as numbness or tingling in the limbs.
• Stiffness and reduced range of motion.
• Visible curvature or abnormal posture.

Spinal deformities we treat

Kyphosis

Kyphosis is an exaggerated forward rounding of the upper back, giving the appearance of a hunched posture.

It can result from:

• Degenerative changes —such as osteoporosis and arthritis.
• Compression fractures due to weakened bones.
• Poor posture leading to muscular imbalances.
• Congenital conditions that affect spinal growth.

Treatment options include:

• Bracing to support spinal alignment in younger patients.
• Minimally invasive or surgical correction for severe cases.
• Physical therapy and postural correction exercises.

Lordosis (swayback)

Lordosis is an excessive inward curvature of the lower back that can strain the spine and surrounding muscles.

It may be caused by:

• Muscle imbalances or weakness.
• Obesity — which alters spinal alignment.
• Spinal conditions like spondylolisthesis.

Treatment options include:

• Bracing or surgical intervention if the condition worsens.
• Strengthening and flexibility exercises.
• Weight management strategies.

Sagittal imbalance

Sagittal imbalance occurs when the spine does not properly align when viewed from the side. This condition leads to difficulties in maintaining an upright posture.

Conditions that contribute to sagittal imbalance include:

• Degenerative spine diseases.
• Flatback syndrome — where the normal spinal curve is reduced.
• Post-surgical spinal alignment issues.

Treatment options include:

• Postural therapy and targeted rehabilitation.
• Spinal fusion or corrective surgery for severe cases.

Scoliosis

Scoliosis is a sideways curvature of the spine that can develop in childhood or later in life due to degenerative changes.

It may lead to:

• Back pain and stiffness.
• Reduced lung capacity in severe cases
• Uneven shoulders or hips.

Treatment options include:

• Bracing for mild to moderate cases.
• Physical therapy to strengthen core muscles.
• Surgical correction for advanced or progressive scoliosis.

How UPMC Treats Spinal Deformities

At UPMC, our multidisciplinary team of spine surgeons, neurologists, and rehabilitation specialists works together to develop personalized treatment plans for each patient.

We offer:

• Advanced diagnostic imaging – Including X-rays, MRIs, and CT scans to assess spinal curvature and alignment.
• Minimally invasive surgery – For faster recovery and reduced complications.
• Non-surgical treatment options – Such as bracing, physical therapy, and pain management strategies.
• State-of-the-art spinal reconstruction – Using the latest surgical techniques for severe deformities.

By UPMC Editorial Staff. Last reviewed on 2025-05-16.