Scoliosis is a deformity characterized by an abnormal curve or curves in the spine. Sometimes the defect is noticeable, but occasionally it is not visible to the naked eye. The insidious nature of this potentially debilitating condition is that not only does the backbone curve, but sometimes the spine itself can rotate. When this occurs, the twisted area becomes asymmetrical. For example, certain people with thoracic scoliosis have one-sided shoulder blade/rib protrusion while the opposite side pushes inward.
Scoliosis is more prevalent in females and may be an inherited disorder, idiopathic (meaning the cause is unknown), functional (meaning the deformity occurred secondary to another problem in the body), or even the result on illness or injury; most times it is considered idiopathic. It can be detected at almost any age, but many times it is diagnosed in adolescence. Measurable growth typically occurs at this stage, so skeletal abnormalities are more likely to become visible.
Treating scoliosis is dependant on different factors. For example, some people have minor curves that do not cause pain; in this situation, a wait and see approach might be reasonable. Others have slight to moderate curves that affect their daily lives; in this situation, treatment is warranted. Regrettably, extreme cases can manifest gross deformities and have the potential to impact internal organs; in this situation, surgery is an option. Almost all abnormal curves result in some degree of height loss. Naturally, the greater the curve measurement, the more substantial the loss will be.
Chiropractic care has realized impressive results in addressing scoliosis, particularly in young people. One such example is of a young man who had a 21 degree curve. During several months of treatment, his curve corrected and he grew several inches. A common goal is to stop progression; nonetheless, some patients have achieved complete correction! Chiropractic care is an effective method in treating a number of scoliosis cases.
How can you tell if a loved one has scoliosis? X-rays are often the preferred diagnostic tool. Still, there less sophisticated ways that could help determine if a problem exists. One suggestion is to have the suspected person bend over to touch his/her toes. If one side of the back appears elevated, then scoliosis might be present. Other indications are uneven hips, slanted shoulders, and unequal leg lengths. Early recognition is important in treating abnormal curves; the sooner the problem is addressed, the greater the possibility the condition will not progress to more serious levels.
If you fear a child or family member has scoliosis, make an appointment with Healing Hand Chiropractic Care today. Our office will conduct a thorough assessment and recommend the most effective therapy for the respective situation. Naturally, no two cases are exactly alike, but chiropractic treatments have helped certain scoliosis sufferers avoid painful and costly surgery.
Hmm, now that’s something that can help everyone stand taller!