UVA Health · New patients

Deformity

Scoliosis

A sideways curvature of the spine, often with rotation. In adults it may be a curve that began in youth or a new degenerative curve. Either can cause pain, imbalance, and progressive leaning.

Adult scoliosis surgery is not one operation. It is a plan: which levels to include, whether the pelvis must be in the construct, whether an osteotomy is needed, and how to protect the cord and nerve roots while restoring balance.

Dr. Li trained with Lawrence Lenke at Columbia Spine Hospital, one of the defining deformity programs in the country. Reconstruction may combine anterior lumbar interbody work (ALIF) with posterior instrumentation from thoracic spine to pelvis when that is what standing balance requires.

The goal is a spine you can live in — not a perfectly straight x-ray at the cost of an overly long fusion.

FAQ

About scoliosis

What is scoliosis?

A sideways curvature of the spine, often with rotation. In adults it may be a curve that began in youth or a new degenerative curve. Either can cause pain, imbalance, and progressive leaning.

What are symptoms of scoliosis?

Visible curve, uneven shoulders or waist; Back or leg pain from the curve or from stenosis inside it; Difficulty standing upright or a tendency to lean; Fatigue after walking or standing.

How does Dr. Li treat scoliosis?

The goal is a spine you can live in — not a perfectly straight x-ray at the cost of an overly long fusion.

Appointments

Ready to take the next step toward recovery?

New patients are welcome. Call the spine clinic or send a note — the team will help you find the right visit.