Scoliosis Treatment in Chiropractic-Works & Wellness Clinic 

Scoliosis is a condition where the spine rotates and curves sideways. Scoliosis can appear and any age, but most frequently appears in children and teenagers. There are multiple different types of scoliosis, but the most common is Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis, which accounts for 80-90% of cases. In this type, scoliosis appears during rapid growth spurts in teenagers and has no known direct cause. It is usually diagnosed by a doctor performing a physical examination, checking for spine curvature and symmetry. 

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Common Symptoms of Scoliosis

Scoliosis causes a range of signs and symptoms, most of which relate to the appearance of the spine. They include:

• An abnormal curvature of the spine

• Uneven shoulder blades

• One hip sitting higher than the other

• Shortness of breath

• Uneven posture

• One side of the rib cage jutting forward

• Breathing difficulties

• Chronic back pain

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Causes and Risk Factors

There is often no known cause for the development of scoliosis. There are some identifiable causes for specific types of scoliosis, some of the most common are:

• Muscular dystrophy, which is a genetic disorder causing muscle weakness

• Cerebral Palsy, which is a group of disorders causing difficulty with movement and posture

• Congenital causes, meaning that a child was born with scoliosis

• Pain when sitting or standing for prolonged time

• Pain normally subsides when movement begins

• Lower back pain

• Dull ache in neck, shoulders and upper back

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Functional scoliosis and structural scoliosis are two different types of spinal curvature, and chiropractic treatment may have varying impacts on each

Functional Scoliosis:

• Description: Functional scoliosis is often a temporary or reversible condition where the spine appears curved, but the curvature is not due to a structural issue.

• Chiropractic Approach: Chiropractic treatment may be beneficial in addressing functional scoliosis by focusing on correcting imbalances, improving posture, and enhancing spinal alignment. This type of scoliosis may be influenced by factors like muscle imbalances, uneven leg length, or postural habits, and chiropractic care may help in restoring balance.

Structural Scoliosis:

• Description: Structural scoliosis involves a permanent curvature of the spine due to a structural issue, such as abnormal vertebral formation or asymmetrical growth.

• Chiropractic Approach: While chiropractic treatment cannot reverse the structural changes associated with scoliosis, it may be used as a supportive measure to manage pain, discomfort, and symptoms. Chiropractors may focus on improving spinal function, reducing muscle tension, and enhancing overall well-being.

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Important Considerations:

• Individual Variation: The effectiveness of chiropractic treatment can vary from person to person, and individual responses may differ.

• Comprehensive Care: Chiropractors often adopt a holistic approach, addressing not only the spine but also considering factors such as lifestyle, posture, and overall musculoskeletal health.

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Pain Management and Symptom Relief: Chiropractic care for both functional and structural scoliosis may aim to manage pain, reduce muscle tension, and improve overall function. This could involve a combination of spinal adjustments, exercises, and lifestyle recommendations to enhance the individual's quality of life.

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