Many individuals dismiss back pain and leg discomfort as merely the natural wear and tear of the body due to ageing. Yet, these aches could sometimes manifest as scoliosis, an abnormal twisting and curvature of the spine.
There are several different types of scoliosis, but the one that commonly impacts seniors is adult degenerative scoliosis. Usually underestimated and under-recognised, this condition affects up to 68 per cent of seniors aged over 60, according to international studies. “With an ageing global population, we can expect this number to rise,” says Adjunct Associate Professor Jacob Oh Yoong Leong, Head of Spine Surgery at Tan Tock Seng Hospital (TTSH).
Adult degenerative scoliosis is caused by the deterioration of intervertebral discs, which act as shock absorbers between the small bones (vertebrae) of the spinal canal. When these discs wear down unevenly over time, it can lead to an imbalanced distribution of body weight on the spine, causing it to curve. Age and genetics are the primary risk factors, but spinal injuries, and certain diseases can also contribute to the development of this condition.
Akin to osteoarthritis of the spine, severe cases of adult degenerative scoliosis can lead to intense back pain, particularly when the vertebrae make direct contact with one another. Nerve compression also takes place when the spaces within the spine are narrowed, or when the bulging discs press on the nerve roots nearby, triggering significant leg pain.
Yet, many seniors are unaware of their adult degenerative scoliosis condition, as it often presents without noticeable symptoms at the start. “They only seek medical attention when they experience considerable pain and find it a challenge to stand upright,” says A/Prof Oh.
In his work at TTSH’s Orthopaedic Surgery department, A/Prof Oh has observed how scoliosis restricts many once-active patients. “Those with severe scoliosis grapple with pain that prevents them from standing for more than a few minutes and walking short distances, hindering their ability to engage in simple tasks like shopping, cooking, and exercising,” says A/Prof Oh.