WHAT IS SCOLIOSIS?

Scoliosis is a progressive lateral (sideways) curvature of the spine.

Any curve with an angle of more than 10 degrees on an X-ray is considered Scoliosis.

Signs of Scoliosis may include:

• uneven hips, shoulders or waist, 

• a lean when standing, 

• a visible curve in the spine, 

• ribs that stick out, 

• shoulder humping or a shoulder blade that appears larger than the other

These adaptations can lead to poor posture, muscular weakness, back pain, stiffness and fatigue due to muscle strain. 

In some cases if left untreated, a patient may require surgery

CAUSES AND RISK FACTORS OF SCOLIOSIS

There are four types of Scoliosis. Idiopathic Scoliosis, Congenital Scoliosis, Neuromuscular Scoliosis, and Degenerative Scoliosis. All have different causes and risk factors.

In non structural Scoliosis, the spine looks curved but is not rigid and can often be treated. Risk factors for this can be things such as chronic poor posture, having one leg shorted than the other, muscle spasms and inflammation, and general degeneration.

Idiopathic scoliosis

The most common type of Scoliosis, but without a known cause from a doctor. Things like age, gender, and family history can be risk factors with this type.

Congenital scoliosis

A rare condition the develops as a baby’s back forms in gestation. Bones developing fail to divide properly, causing the curvature in the spine.

Neuromuscular scoliosis

Caused by disorders like Spina Bifida, Cerebral Palsy, or spinal cord injuries. These conditions cause damage to the muscles which support the spine.

Degenerative scoliosis

Effecting adults where the disks and joints of the spine degenerate with age.

HOW YOUR CHIROPRACTOR MAY HELP

Chiropractic adjustments 

Specific chiropractic adjustments may help to correct the dysfunction of skeletal structures and reduce the torsion in the spinal cord.

Exercise Prescriptions

Design exercises specifically to address balance, coordination, and proprioceptive (body awareness) problems as well as stretch and strengthen the muscles around the curves and correct changes in muscle fibres.

Nutritional Support

Offer nutrition recommendations to support a healthy lifestyle.

Orthotics

Discuss the use of foot orthotics and heel lifts to level the pelvis.

By combining treatments and lifestyle factors into a program tailored for each patient and adjusted according to response, it is often possible to avoid the more unpleasant, expensive, and dangerous options.

Book an appointment to learn how one of our practitioners might help you