The burden of spinal deformity includes health care costs, pain management, therapy, alternative care, and lost work days due to pain. The total cost of spinal deformity is difficult to determine because hospital charges are the only expenditures available in the databases. In addition, not all persons suffering from spinal deformity seek medical care.
Scoliosis in the adult has an impact that is similar to other common medical conditions including osteoarthritis, coronary artery disease, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Overall, the burden of scoliosis on health-related quality of life is severe relative to other common medical conditions. With the aging demographic profile of the US, the burden of adult scoliosis is increasing and has a significant impact on the health of our population, and on the cost of care for spinal disorders.
