Scoliosis & Spinal Deformity Care in Indianapolis

Scoliosis refers to a sideways curvature of the spine, while spinal deformity more broadly describes a loss of normal alignment — whether that curvature developed during growth or, more commonly in adults, gradually over decades of disc and joint wear. In adults, this is often called adult degenerative scoliosis, and it can cause pain, muscle fatigue, and a visible imbalance in posture as the spine shifts out of its natural alignment.

Dr. Gerlach evaluates and treats the full spectrum of spinal deformity, from mild curves that need only monitoring to complex cases requiring surgical realignment, including revision surgery for patients whose alignment has changed or progressed after a prior spine operation.

Deformity can present differently depending on age and the region of the spine involved, but common signs include:

• A visible curve in the spine, or uneven shoulders, waist, or hips
• Fatigue and aching pain that builds with prolonged standing or walking
• A forward-leaning posture, or difficulty standing fully upright
• Leg pain, numbness, or weakness when the curve is accompanied by spinal stenosis

In adolescents, most curves are managed with observation and periodic imaging, with physical therapy or bracing used to help control progression during growth. Surgery is reserved for curves that continue to worsen despite these measures.

In adults, treatment typically starts with non-operative care — pain management, physical therapy, and activity modification — aimed at improving function and comfort. When deformity progresses, or when pain and imbalance meaningfully affect quality of life, surgery may be considered. The scope of surgery is individualized: some patients need only a focused decompression to relieve nerve pressure, while others require staged deformity correction to restore alignment. Learn more about deformity correction.