Spinal curves come in many forms, and one that often raises questions is levoscoliosis. Unlike the more common right-sided (dextroscoliosis) curves, levoscoliosis describes a spinal curvature that bends toward the left. When it occurs in the lumbar spine, which is the lower back, it can affect balance, posture, and in some cases, daily function.
At Scoliosis Care, Dr. David Siambanes specializes in evaluating and treating all types of scoliosis, including levoscoliosis. Below, we’ll take a closer look at what this condition means, what causes it, and how it’s treated.
What Is Levoscoliosis?
Levoscoliosis refers to an abnormal curvature of the spine to the left side. The term is often paired with the spinal region it affects. For example:
- Thoracic levoscoliosis: curvature in the mid-back
- Lumbar levoscoliosis: curvature in the lower back
- Thoracolumbar levoscoliosis: spanning both mid- and lower-back regions
When levoscoliosis is present in the lumbar spine, the body’s natural balance can shift, sometimes leading to uneven hips, gait changes, or low back discomfort.
What Causes Lumbar Levoscoliosis?
There are several potential causes of levoscoliosis, ranging from developmental factors to age-related changes.
Common causes include:
- Idiopathic scoliosis: Most cases have no clear cause and are classified as idiopathic, often developing during adolescence.
- Congenital scoliosis: Structural abnormalities in the spine that form before birth.
- Neuromuscular conditions: Disorders like cerebral palsy or muscular dystrophy that affect spinal support muscles.
- Degenerative changes: In adults, arthritis, disc degeneration, or osteoporosis can contribute to lumbar levoscoliosis.
- Trauma or surgery: Injury or previous spinal surgery can sometimes lead to curve progression.
Symptoms of Lumbar Levoscoliosis
Not every case of lumbar levoscoliosis causes symptoms, especially when the curve is mild. However, as the curve progresses, patients may notice:
- Uneven hips or waistline
- Visible leaning or imbalance when standing
- Back pain, especially in the lower spine
- Stiffness or reduced range of motion
- Muscle spasms or fatigue after long periods of activity
- In severe cases, nerve compression leading to tingling or weakness in the legs
Because the lumbar spine supports most of the body’s weight, even small changes in curvature can lead to significant discomfort over time.
How Levoscoliosis Is Diagnosed
Diagnosis begins with a physical exam, where the physician checks for postural changes, uneven hips, or visible spinal curves. Imaging is essential to confirm and measure the curve:
- X-rays: The gold standard for measuring scoliosis, including the Cobb angle that quantifies curve severity.
- MRI or CT scans: Ordered if nerve involvement, spinal cord issues, or underlying structural abnormalities are suspected.
At Scoliosis Care, Dr. Siambanes uses advanced imaging and a thorough evaluation to determine not only the degree of curvature but also the potential underlying causes.
Treatment Options for Lumbar Levoscoliosis
Treatment depends on age, curve severity, symptoms, and progression risk.
Non-surgical Treatment
- Observation and monitoring: For mild curves, especially in children and adolescents.
- Physical therapy: Exercises tailored to strengthen the core, improve posture, and support spinal balance.
- Bracing: Used in growing children or teens to help prevent further curve progression.
- Pain management: Includes anti-inflammatory medications, activity modifications, or targeted injections in adults with degenerative scoliosis.
Surgical Treatment
Surgery may be considered if:
- The curve is severe (typically over 40–50 degrees in adolescents, or progressing rapidly in adults).
- The curve causes disabling pain or nerve compression.
- Non-surgical treatments fail to provide relief.
Procedures may involve spinal fusion with rods and screws to stabilize and realign the spine, particularly in severe lumbar levoscoliosis cases.
Living with Lumbar Levoscoliosis
Many patients live active, healthy lives with levoscoliosis, especially when the curve is detected early and managed appropriately. The key is regular monitoring. Even mild curves can progress, particularly during growth spurts or in older adults with degenerative changes.
Lifestyle adjustments such as ergonomic seating, core-strengthening exercises, and low-impact physical activity can help reduce strain on the spine.
Scoliosis Treatment in Tampa Bay
Dr. Siambanes, founder of Scoliosis Care, is a nationally recognized scoliosis specialist with decades of experience treating spinal deformities in children, teens, and adults. He combines clinical expertise with a personalized approach, taking time to explain imaging results, treatment options, and what patients can expect moving forward.
If you’ve been diagnosed with levoscoliosis or are concerned about changes in your posture or back pain, don’t wait to seek help. Early evaluation makes a meaningful difference in outcomes.
Schedule a consultation with Dr. Siambanes today to learn more about levoscoliosis and the treatment options available.
