Congenital and Adult Scoliosis

Congenital Scoliosis

Congenital scoliosis is a spinal deformity caused by abnormal spinal development before birth. It occurs in approximately 1 in every 1,000 births and may be associated with abnormalities in other organs, such as:

• Cardiac issues (10% of cases)

• Additional spinal defects (40%)

• Urinary or renal anomalies (25%)

Causes

The most common structural malformations include:

• Hemivertebra: a partially formed vertebra causing uneven spinal growth

• Unilateral bar: a failure of separation between vertebrae, leading to spinal curvature

Symptoms

Many children with congenital scoliosis are asymptomatic. However, more significant curves may result in:

• Visible spinal deformity (e.g., rib hump)

• Back pain, stiffness, or fatigue

• In severe cases: neurological symptoms such as weakness, numbness, or loss of bladder/bowel control

• Pulmonary or cardiac complications due to reduced thoracic cavity space

PMC Diagnosis

Diagnosis includes:

• Comprehensive medical history

• Physical examination

• 3D spinal X-rays
  Additional tests like MRI, blood work, or advanced imaging may be performed to evaluate associated complications.

PMC Treatment

PMC treatment focuses on:

• Repositioning the vertebrae to a more natural alignment

• Correcting three-dimensional spinal rotation

• Stimulating cellular regeneration in spinal tissues

The treatment plan includes:

• Acoustic wave therapy to restore alignment

• Dynamic spine mobilization exercises, personalized based on diagnostic imaging

• An active rehabilitation approach, avoiding dependency on braces or surgical interventions in early cases

In severe or progressive congenital scoliosis, surgery may be required if symptoms are not managed conservatively.

Adult Scoliosis

Adult scoliosis is defined as a spinal curvature that appears or progresses after skeletal maturity. It can occur due to:

• A childhood scoliosis that went untreated or undiagnosed

• Adult degenerative scoliosis, which develops from:

  • Repetitive trauma or poor ergonomics

  • Disc degeneration

  • Osteoporosis

  • Compression fractures

Symptoms

Symptoms vary by severity and may include:

• Chronic lower back pain

• Uneven shoulders or hips

• Leg length discrepancy

• Gait abnormalities

• Truncal imbalance

• Difficulty standing or sitting upright

• In advanced cases: neurological symptoms or respiratory/cardiac complications

PMC Diagnosis

Diagnosis includes:

• Detailed patient history

• Physical evaluation

• 3D cervical spine imaging
  Additional investigations (MRI, blood tests, full-spine X-rays) help determine structural damage or associated issues.

PMC Treatment

PMC offers a non-invasive, scientifically validated treatment for adult scoliosis, focusing on:

• Spinal realignment and neuromuscular balance

• Acoustic wave therapy to stimulate tissue regeneration and restore posture

• A personalized rehabilitation program, including:

  • Postural correction

  • Cardiovascular exercise

  • Core muscle strengthening

Unlike traditional methods that rely on passive bracing (which can lead to muscle atrophy), PMC encourages active participation in recovery, helping restore spinal mobility, reduce pain, and slow or reverse curve progression.