Scoliosis and Chiropractic Care

Scoliosis is an abnormal sideways curve of the spine. Everyone’s spine has natural curves, helping to round the shoulders and curve our lower back. However, those suffering from scoliosis have spines that also curve from side to side, independent from posture. The spine of a person with scoliosis looks more like an “S” or a “C” rather than a straight line. It usually does begin as a postural distortion but may eventually become a permanent deformity. Allowed to advance, it may interfere with the lungs, heart and many other vital organs.

It is more common in females and begins in childhood. Most scoliosis curves are initially detected on school screening exams by a child’s pediatrician. Approximately 2-3 % of Americans have scoliosis by age 16. If detected early, proper treatment will prevent it from worsening over time.

Why?

Scoliosis is called an idiopathic disease, because the cause is unknown. It is often caused by neuromuscular conditions (cerebral palsy or muscular dystrophy), birth defects that affect bones of the spine to develop and/or infections of the spine. Other causes of scoliosis include: bone collapse, major back surgery, and osteoporosis (thinning of the bones).

How we can help:

Usually scoliosis treatment depends on your age, how much you’re likely to grow, how much curving there is and whether the curve is temporary or permanent. Significant research suggests that the function and structure of the spine can be manually manipulated by an adjustment, thus relieving scoliosis discomfort.

A chiropractor will look at your overall health, examining your spine as well as other lifestyle factors. Discussing symptoms, previous injuries, work –related and recreational activities and family’s health history will help create a guideline of routines that will aid the maintenance of a full and happy life, eased of scoliosis distress.