Scoliosis pain is usually caused by muscle strain, joint stress, or nerve compression due to the abnormal spinal curvature. Asymmetrical posture and spinal degeneration can also play a role.

Common pain areas include:

• Lower back (most frequent)

• Shoulders or neck

• Hips

• Legs (if nerves are involved)

No. Many people—especially children and teens—have no pain. Pain becomes more common in adults, especially if the curve worsens or causes degeneration.

Yes. If the curve compresses spinal nerves, it can cause:

• Sharp or shooting pain

• Numbness or tingling

• Leg or foot weakness

It may feel:

• Achy or sore in the back or hips

• Sharp or stabbing if nerves are involved

• Tight or fatigued in one-sided muscles

• Worse after prolonged sitting or standing

Worsening pain could be due to:

• Curve progression

• Muscle imbalance or poor posture

• Age-related disc or joint degeneration

• Nerve compression

Yes. Many cases improve with:

• Physical therapy

• Stretching and core strengthening

• Posture training

• Pain management techniques
  Surgery is usually only considered for severe or worsening cases.

Yes—if it’s scoliosis-specific. General exercise may help, but targeted therapy like the Schroth Method is more effective in reducing pain and improving posture.

• Orthopedic spine specialist for diagnosis and treatment planning

• Physical therapist (preferably trained in scoliosis treatment)

• Pain management specialist if the pain is chronic or complex