Scoliosis

What is Scoliosis?

Scoliosis is an abnormal curvature of the spine. Normally, the spine has a slight "s" shape. With scoliosis, the "s" shape takes on a mild twist, normally to one side or the other. The side to side curvature becomes more pronounced as a person ages. Scoliosis is often diagnosed in children and adolescents. Scoliosis can be caused by a congenital defect, while idiopathic scoliosis has no apparent cause. Neuromuscular scoliosis is the result of abnormal formation of the muscles and nerves within the spinal column. Degenerative scoliosis is often the result of health conditions like rheumatoid arthritis or degenerative bone disease.

How is it Treated?

Mild forms of scoliosis are closely monitored to ensure the curve of the spine does not impede growth or proper structural development. Braces may be used to help keep the spine straight during periods of growth, but in most cases, the curvature is not severe enough to cause permanent structural damage. In severe cases, the doctor may need to place rods in the spine to keep the bones from damaging vital organs. This may also be the case in degenerative forms of scoliosis where the progression of the disease causing the curvature begins to become so severe that it has a negative effect on the patient's quality of life.

Can Chiropractic Care Help With Scoliosis?

Scoliosis is not a painful health condition, nor does it cause adverse side effects. What it does do, however, is to throw the body out of balance. With the spine out of alignment, it alters a person's gate causing them to put varying degrees of pressure on the joints in the hips and legs. It can also have an impact on how the bodily organs function. Chiropractic care can not change the curvature of the spine, but it can help the body to adapt to the level of balance it is accustomed to. This can effectively reduce joint pain and inflammation, as well as strengthen the bones and muscles of the spinal column allowing the person to be as active as possible with minimal repercussions.