Episode Title: What Are the Different Types of Scoliosis?

Not all scoliosis is the same. While a diagnosis of “scoliosis” can sound straightforward, the type, cause, location, and severity of the curve make a huge difference in how it should be treated. In this episode of Scoliosis Treatment with Dr. Tony Nalda, we break down the different types of scoliosis, what causes them, and how these distinctions impact treatment decisions.

If you or a loved one has been told, "You have scoliosis," this episode is essential for understanding what that truly means—and why personalized care is key to long-term success.

✅ How Scoliosis Is Diagnosed:

Defined as a sideways spinal curve of 10° or more, with rotation

Measured using a Cobb angle on spinal X-rays

Severity Categories:

Mild: 10–25°

Moderate: 25–40°

Severe: 40°+

Very Severe: 80°+

✅ Types of Scoliosis Based on Cause:

Idiopathic Scoliosis (80% of cases):

No clear cause; most common form

Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis (AIS) is the most typical subtype

Neuromuscular Scoliosis:

Secondary to conditions like cerebral palsy, muscular dystrophy, or tethered cord

Often linked to poor muscle tone or connective tissue dysfunction

Congenital Scoliosis:

Caused by malformations during fetal development, such as hemivertebrae

Degenerative (De Novo) Scoliosis:

Develops later in life due to asymmetrical spinal degeneration, often from old injuries or unresolved misalignments

Traumatic Scoliosis:

Caused by a severe injury, such as a fall or accident

✅ Types of Scoliosis Based on Curve Location:

Cervical (Neck)

Thoracic (Mid-Back)

Lumbar (Lower Back)

Thoracolumbar (Transitional Area)

Multi-curve presentations such as double major or cervicothoracic scoliosis

✅ Why Curve Type and Cause Matter in Treatment:

Treatment plans must consider:

Causation (neuromuscular, congenital, idiopathic, etc.)

Curve location

Severity at diagnosis

Age and growth stage

These factors help determine whether a patient would benefit most from:

Chiropractic-based conservative treatment

Bracing

Specialized exercises

Therapy tailored to their unique curve pattern

➡️ Saying "you have scoliosis" is too vague—type, cause, and location all affect treatment strategy.
➡️ Idiopathic scoliosis is the most common, but other types like neuromuscular or degenerative require very different approaches.
➡️ Every scoliosis curve has the potential to progress—that’s why addressing the structural problem early is essential.
➡️ At Scoliosis Reduction Center, treatment plans are built around each patient's specific curve and contributing factors.

📘 Free Guide: How to Effectively Treat Scoliosis – Get the latest insights on non-surgical scoliosis treatment. Download it at scoliosisreductioncenter.com/free
🌐 Learn More – Explore tailored treatment options for every type of scoliosis at scoliosisreductioncenter.com
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Thank you for tuning in to Scoliosis Treatment with Dr. Tony Nalda—bringing clarity, education, and customized care to every scoliosis journey. 🎧