Mild cases of scoliosis usually do not need treatment.

Some people may use nonprescription medicines such as ibuprofen and naproxen to treat back pain. While these medicines may relieve symptoms of back pain for a short time, they do not heal scoliosis or back injuries. And they don't stop the pain from coming back.

Along with medicine, other steps that help to maintain or promote good health, such as regular exercise and proper back care, may help relieve back pain for some adults.

Your doctor may recommend physical therapy to help you learn:

• Ways to move and rest that will help relieve pain.
• Strength exercises, to help support your joints and decrease fatigue.
• Flexibility exercises, including deep breathing to help expand your chest.
• Ways to stay active without increasing your symptoms.

If the pain makes it hard to do your daily activities, your doctor may recommend surgery.

Adults who have scoliosis because of aging (degenerative scoliosis) are more likely than children to have significant problems after surgery. Even though surgery usually reduces their pain, other complications, such as wound infections, may occur.