Identification

• Kyphoscoliosis can be either postural, structural (abnormal bone formation) or caused by osteoarthritis. The latter usually occurs later in life because of certain irregularities in the spinal vertebrae. Pain can vary and affect both bones and muscles. According to the staff at Mayoclinic.com, "treatment typically depends on your age and sex, the severity of your symptoms and how rigid the curve in your spine is."
  
  

Effects of Ice and Heat

• Ice can be used for relieving ligament and muscle pain with kyphoscoliosis. Ice is most effective if it is compressed directly against the primary location of the pain. Ice causes vasoconstriction (narrowing of blood vessels), which controls inflammation and pain by limiting the flow of blood and lymph fluid to the area. Ice is most effective when applied at 20-minute intervals and within the first 48 hours of any flare-ups. When inflammation and pain are somewhat mitigated, heat can be used to promote blood (with its healing properties) flow to the muscles and ligaments.
  
  

Types of Medication

• Anti-inflammatory medications such as naproxen and ibuprofen can also be used for inflammation and pain caused by kyphoscoliosis. These medications are Cox-2 inhibitors that control swelling and pain by limiting the production of Cox-2 enzymes and prostaglandins (chemicals), which is the body's natural response to aggravated muscles, ligaments or bones.
  
  

Benefits of Exercise

• Specific stretching and strength-building exercises can alleviate muscle strain, tightness and ligament pain caused by kyphoscoliosis. Stretching the muscles in the shoulder and traps can actually help improve the posture of people with less severe symptoms. Other exercises such as pressing the back against the floor or pulling one or both legs toward the chest can help relieve muscle and ligament strains in the middle or lower back. Both stretching and strength-producing exercises can relieve pain by promoting blood flow to the area.
  
  

Considerations

• There are special braces or even special chairs that people with kyphoscoliosis can use for support. According to orthopedic surgeon, Dr. Howard An, in his article "Kyphosis: Treatment and Recovery" on Spine-universe.com, "bracing is the standard treatment to control curve progression in adolescents. For curve correction, a Cervical Thoraco Lumbar Sacral Orthotic (CTLSO) may be worn for 24 hours per day for a period of one year." Electric stimulation devices, ultrasound and mechanical massagers can also help relieve pain. Surgery may be required for children or people with more severe spinal curvatures.