Can scoliosis cause pain in the latissimus dorsi muscle

Scoliosis may cause pain in the latissimus dorsi muscle, but not all patients will experience this symptom. Muscle pain caused by scoliosis is usually related to posture compensation, muscle fatigue, or nerve compression, and the latissimus dorsi muscle, as one of the main muscles in the back, may experience soreness due to long-term uneven stress. The occurrence of latissimus dorsi pain in patients with scoliosis is often related to biomechanical changes caused by abnormal spinal structure. When the spine bends to one side, the latissimus dorsi muscle needs to continue to contract to maintain body balance, and this long-term asymmetric load may cause excessive muscle tension and lactate accumulation. Some patients may also experience referred pain due to compression of intercostal nerves caused by thoracic rotation. Mild scoliosis can be relieved through core muscle training, posture correction, and physical therapy, but it is necessary to avoid unilateral weight-bearing exercises that worsen muscle compensation. A small number of severe scoliosis cases may directly compress spinal nerve roots or cause intervertebral disc herniation, often accompanied by numbness or radiating pain in the latissimus dorsi muscle. If the lateral bending angle exceeds 40 degrees or is accompanied by neurological symptoms, it may require brace fixation or surgical intervention. This type of patient usually experiences worsening pain at night and may affect shoulder joint movement, requiring imaging examination to determine the location of nerve compression. Patients with scoliosis should avoid sitting for long periods of time, carrying backpacks on one shoulder, and other unhealthy postures in daily life. Swimming and Pilates can help balance muscle strength. When pain occurs, hot compress or low-frequency electrical stimulation can be tried, but if it persists for two weeks without relief or if lower limb weakness occurs, nerve damage should be promptly investigated. It is recommended to review spinal X-rays every six months to monitor the progression of scoliosis. Adolescent patients should pay special attention to changes in the spine during their growth and development period.