What Is Mid-Lumbar Scoliosis?

Scoliosis is a form of spinal deformity.

If you have one shoulder that is higher than the other, the cause might not be poor posture--it could be scoliosis. Scoliosis can occur at different points along your spine, including the mid-lumbar region.

Scoliosis

Scoliosis occurs when you develop a sideways curvature in your spine. It usually occurs before you enter puberty, according to the Mayo Clinic.

Lumbar Region

When scoliosis occurs in the lumber or lower back region, the spine usually curves on the left side of your body, according to the University of Virginia.

Symptoms

Symptoms of scoliosis include uneven shoulder blades and uneven hips. It can also cause back pain.

Treatment

Scoliosis treatment depends on how severe the curve in your mid-lumbar spine is. Bracing can treat less severe curves, especially if your spine is still growing. Surgery is an option for more severe curvature of the spine.

Considerations

The cause of most cases of scoliosis is unknown. It does tend to run in families, so there could be a genetic component.

References

• University of Virginia: Scoliosis
• Mayo Clinic: Scoliosis