What is scoliosis?
Scoliosis is a sideways curvature of the spine. Most often diagnosed in adolescents, it can also occur in people with conditions such as cerebral palsy and muscular dystrophy. The angle of the curve may be ‘C’ or ‘S’ shaped, and small, large, or somewhere in between. Most cases of scoliosis are mild, but some curves worsen as children grow. In severe cases, it can be disabling, and the spinal curve can reduce the amount of space within the chest, making it difficult for the lungs to function properly.
Symptoms
Signs and symptoms of scoliosis may include:
- Uneven shoulders
- One shoulder blade that appears more prominent than the other
- Uneven waist
- One hip higher than the other
- One side of the rib cage jutting forward
- A prominence on one side of the back when bending forward
How is scoliosis treated?
Scoliosis treatments vary, depending on the severity of the curve. Children who have mild scoliosis are monitored closely, usually with x-rays, to see if the curve is getting worse. In many cases, chiropractic treatment for scoliosis involves regular adjustments with the hands or a device, to make sure the curvature of the spine is not worsening and is properly aligned: the goal is to realign the muscles, bones, and joints.
If you have scoliosis, call our clinic to set up an appointment to stop scoliosis from getting worse.