Scoliosis is a spinal deformity where the spine develops with one or more abnormal curves. Non-surgical treatment options exist for Scoliosis, which we will go over in this article.
With June being Scoliosis Awareness Month, we want to raise awareness of this condition and how you can benefit from chiropractic care if you have it.
What is Scoliosis Exactly?
According to the Mayo Clinic:
“Scoliosis is a sideways curvature of the spine that occurs most often during the growth spurt just before puberty.
While scoliosis can be caused by conditions such as cerebral palsy and muscular dystrophy, the cause of most scoliosis is unknown. About 3% of adolescents have scoliosis.”
A majority of the cases of scoliosis are mild, but some can develop into severe and disabling problems. According to the American Association of Neurological Surgeons, about 80% of cases don’t have an identifiable cause.
Symptoms of Scoliosis
Having back pain is a key indicator that you may be suffering from scoliosis. With only a mild case, you may not even realize that you have scoliosis, which is why you should contact us if you are experiencing back pain.
As your spine curves, it can put pressure on nearby nerves and cause numbness and weakness. To accurately diagnose scoliosis, you need to see a doctor or chiropractor and have X-rays taken of your spine.
These are some additional signs to look for, which can be indicators of scoliosis:
- Uneven shoulders
- One shoulder blade that appears more prominent than the other
- Uneven waist
- One hip higher than the other
- Difficulty walking
- Trouble standing up straight
- Numbness or pain in your legs
Chiropractic Treatment
According to a 2011 study, chiropractic treatment has been proven to have sustained, long-term benefits for patients with scoliosis.
Scoliosis is not technically a “curable” condition, but by continually monitoring and treating your condition, you can lead a completely normal life without needing surgery.
The primary goal of your scoliosis treatment is to maximize the mobility and function of your body.
The abnormal curves associated with scoliosis can cause stresses on weight-bearing joints. This can cause pain throughout your body, not just the spine.
Some examples of treatments include bracing, exercise and chiropractic adjustments. These treatments can alleviate your pain by taking off some of the added pressure caused by the abnormal curvature.
Very severe cases of scoliosis may require surgery to correct the curve, but you should come in for a consultation before making your final decision on it.
Summary
Routine adjustments can help you with overall spinal alignment and posture, decreasing pain and improving your quality of life.
For some people, chiropractic care in conjunction with regular use of a brace can nearly completely get rid of scoliosis-related pain.
Getting surgery is a very expensive and invasive treatment. We want you to be able to help you avoid it, if at all possible.
If you have any questions, you can check out our FAQs or give us a call any time.
Dr. J. Craig Strickland, DC
Carolina Rehab & Physical Medicine Center