Scoliosis Q & A

What is Scoliosis?

As a result of being bipedal, walking on two feet, the human nervous system uses reflexes and postural controls to keep our spines in a straight line. Sometimes, a sideways curvature develops. When the curvature is larger than 10 degrees it is referred to as scoliosis. Scoliosis can also be accompanied by an abnormal curvature toward the back called kyphosis or by curvature at the front known as lordosis. Usually, the exact cause of scoliosis is unknown but it can be affected by injury, neurological disease, and other spinal conditions.

What Symptoms Are Associated with Scoliosis?

Commonly experienced symptoms include:

• Pain

• Difficulty doing certain activities

• Sideways posture

When the condition is especially severe, with a curvature of more than 20 degrees, it can affect lung and heart function. Usually, the curves are not detectable by the untrained eye. When growing children and adolescents have scoliosis it can worsen over time can cause further issues. Frequent chiropractic examinations will be necessary for this group.

What Treatment is Used for Scoliosis?

Dr. Chad typically uses three treatment options for scoliosis:

• Careful observation is the first step in treatment. Most mild scoliosis does not progress and cause further problems. However, it will be important to keep an eye on the condition so that any changes are noticed right away.

• Spinal correction can be made with manual chiropractic treatment, often utilizing Chiropractic BioPhysics (CPB).

• Bracing is usually used for children who have not reached skeletal maturity, where their skeleton stops growing, and for those who have curvatures over 25 and under 45 degrees.

Therapeutic exercises, and EMS, or electrical muscle stimulation, have also been helpful treatment options. For patients who experience back pain along with his or her scoliosis, manipulations and exercise can reduce discomfort.