What Are Spinal Deformities?
A healthy spine is slightly curved, but certain conditions can cause the spine’s normal curvature to become exaggerated. Spinal deformities may consist of a side-to-side curvature, as occurs with scoliosis, or a front-to-back curvature, as occurs with kyphosis. In adults, excessive spinal curvature can often be traced to age-related spinal degeneration. It may also result from spinal trauma or poor posture.
Spinal deformities do not always cause pain or require treatment. However, problems may arise if vertebral misalignment restricts movement or pressures a spinal nerve. A compressed nerve can produce a number of uncomfortable symptoms, including localized and radiating pain, numbness, muscle weakness and tingling sensations that travel from the spine down an arm or leg.
How are spinal deformities treated?
When a spinal deformity requires treatment, the approach taken can vary based on the nature of the spinal deformity, the extent of the spinal curvature, the amount of nerve compression present (if any) and the patient’s age and overall health. Many physicians advise their patients to begin with nonsurgical therapies to help relieve discomfort. Some treatment options for spinal deformities include:
- A neck or back brace, which can be worn during certain activities to support and stabilize the spine
- Physical therapy, including targeted stretches and exercises to enhance range of motion, restore balance and strengthen the muscles that support the spine
- Over-the-counter pain relievers and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), which can be taken as needed for pain relief
- A narcotic pain reliever or epidural steroid injection, which may be prescribed for severe pain that does not respond to over-the-counter medications
While spine surgery is generally viewed as a last resort, it may be considered if nonsurgical therapy does not provide meaningful symptom relief within several weeks. The goal of a surgical procedure may be to straighten the spine or reduce pressure on a spinal nerve.
At Advanced Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine of Houston, Texas, we emphasize individualized treatment for spinal deformities and other spine conditions, recognizing that each patient is unique. Our experienced team includes board-certified and double-board-certified orthopedic surgeons, many of whom specialize in spine surgery and are well-versed in performing the latest minimally invasive techniques. We also offer on-site physical therapy and rehabilitation services, allowing our patients to receive comprehensive treatment services in a single location.
For more information about the treatment options for spinal deformities available at Advanced Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine of Houston, TX, contact us today.


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1Professional Building II At North Cypress Medical Center
AOSM Physical Therapy
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2North Cypress Professional Building At Lakewood Crossing
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3North Cypress Professional Building At Towne Lake
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4Advanced Orthopaedics Memorial
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5Woodlands Location
What Our Patients Are Saying
Dr. Patel is a very good Pain Management Doctor. She is one of my favorite doctors.

Dr. Mohr and his staff are very friendly people. They treated my father very well and made him feel comfortable in his uncomfortable situation.

Excellent experience. The doctor, staff, office services and hospital care were outstanding before, during and after the procedure. Thank you – Heathgrades, Dr. Cubbage review

Dr. Patel has been a great Doctor for me. When I was referred to after discussion we decided to do injections in my back.

I had Back surgery October 1st with fusion. My surgeon was Dr. M Cubbage and my experience I feel could not be any more satisfied with my surgery.

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I highly recommend Advanced Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine whenever the need arises for great orthopaedic surgeons.

So I was going to get on here and brag about what a great surgeon Dr. Cubbage is. But Cubbage is only 3/4 of the picture. He’ll fix you, but Karen is the one that will care for you and heal you!

I flew in for my appointment in the middle of Covid. He was recommended as a top ortho by my employer’s medical concierge team. He is incredible… surgery a breeze on my knee… zero pain the next day. His team and office staff are top notch – on par with Mayo Clinic. We are fortunate to have doctors like him…

I’ve been going to this office to see Dr. Blalock 4 months. He has done 4 different hand surgeries some in February and 1 in April. I probably will need another surgery next year and Dr. Blalock will be my surgeon.
