Scoliosis In Adults: Diagnosis, Treatment, And Living With The Condition With Dr. Phinit Phisitkul

Scoliosis isn’t just a childhood issue—it can sneak up on you in adulthood, too. Maybe it started with a little nagging back pain, or perhaps you noticed your posture just wasn’t what it used to be. Whatever the case, learning that you have scoliosis as an adult can feel like someone threw a curveball into your life (pun intended). But don’t worry, you’re not alone. With insights from Dr. Phinit Phisitkul, we’ll explore what this condition means, how it’s diagnosed, and the best ways to manage it.

Diagnosis: When Something Feels Off

Imagine this: you’ve been dealing with persistent back pain or maybe one hip seems higher than the other. You might even notice that your clothes don’t fit right anymore. These are often the subtle signs that lead adults to seek medical advice. Dr. Phisitkul often starts with a simple physical exam, checking for uneven shoulders or a visible curve in your spine. If scoliosis is suspected, he’ll likely order an X-ray or MRI to get a clearer picture of what’s going on.

Finding out you have scoliosis as an adult can be a bit of a shock, especially if it’s progressed without you even knowing. But here’s the thing—it’s not uncommon, and it’s manageable. The key is understanding what’s happening in your body and taking steps to address it.

Treatment Options: Tailoring The Approach

So, you’ve got your diagnosis—now what? The good news is that there are several treatment options, and they’re not as daunting as you might think. Dr. Phinit Phisitkul emphasizes that the best treatment plan is one that’s personalized to your specific needs.

For many adults, physical therapy becomes a cornerstone of treatment. Strengthening the muscles around your spine can help alleviate pain and improve your posture. Imagine it like building a solid foundation for a house—it supports everything else. Sometimes, though, therapy alone isn’t enough. In those cases, pain management techniques like medication or injections can be helpful. And yes, surgery might be considered, but it’s usually reserved for more severe cases where other treatments haven’t worked.

One surprising piece of advice from Dr. Phisitkul is to stay active. It might sound counterintuitive, but regular exercise can actually help manage the symptoms of scoliosis. Activities like swimming or yoga can keep your spine flexible and reduce pain. Think of it as giving your spine a little TLC—it deserves it.

Living With Scoliosis: Embracing Your New Normal

Living with scoliosis doesn’t mean you have to give up the things you love. It just means you might need to approach them a bit differently. Dr. Phinit Phisitkul often tells his patients that scoliosis is a part of their lives, but it doesn’t define them.

On those tough days when your back is acting up, it’s important to listen to your body. Maybe that means taking a break, using a heating pad, or doing some gentle stretches. And remember, it’s okay to have off days—it’s all part of the journey.

So, if you’re an adult living with scoliosis, know that you have options and support. With a personalized treatment plan and the right mindset, you can navigate this condition and live a full, active life. After all, life’s all about rolling with the curves, right?