Adult Scoliosis
A lot of people have heard about scoliosis and you may remember in grade school being tested for it. Advancements in technology now allows us to diagnosis and treat it much more easily. The most common is radiographs or X-ray, which is typically the most diagnostic and cheapest way to confirm scoliosis.
There are many different causes of scoliosis, the most common being idiopathic scoliosis, which means we really don’t know what caused it. Mild forms of scoliosis can be due to muscle spasms which cause muscular imbalances. This type of scoliosis can be treated with conservative measures such as chiropractic treatment. Another form of scoliosis can be due to degenerative changes in the spine. This is typically seen in older adults. Congenital scoliosis, which isn’t that common is due to failure of proper formation of the spinal vertebra.
The severity of scoliosis is determined by the degree of the curve. A curve of 0-10 degrees isn’t considered to be scoliosis, just a lateral curve of the spine. A curve 11-20 degrees is considered to be a mild form of scoliosis, 21-30 is a moderate case, and anything curve over 40 degrees is considered to be a server cause of scoliosis.
It is important to consider that there are generally three periods in which scoliosis may be progressive: (1) infancy, (2) adolescence, and (3) after age 50 years. Patients older than 50 years of age typically develop scoliosis due to bone-softening disorders and degenerative instability.
Management and Treatment of Scoliosis
Curves less than 20º may be treated chiropractically, especially if it is a young patient that has yet to reach skeletal maturity. Special stretches and exercises are utilized to prevent further progression of the curve.
Curves between 20-40º are still within the conservative management rangel. Orthopedic doctors may consider bracing the patient to help prevent progression of the curve. Stretches and exercises are also recommended, as well as chiropractic adjustments.
Server cases of scoliosis may require surgery, which utilizes Harrington rods implantation to prevent increase of the curvature.
Get Active in your Treatment of Scoliosis
Usually, treatment of pain from scoliosis is similar to treatment for other musculoskeletal conditions. Research has shown that chiropractic adjustments help with the pain associated with scoliosis.
- Exercising, such as yoga or Pilates, that strengthens core muscles of the trunk is one of the biggest determinants of long-term health. Avoid extremes of rotation and being, and use good posture. Load-bearing exercise such as walking can help combat bone degeneration.
- Maintaining a healthy weight. The more you carry, the more stress it puts on your back
- Nutrition can help bone thinning that can lead to osteoporosis and help with degradation of soft tissue between the bones.
Dr. Gibson at RTP Chiropractic in Morrisville is highly trained to diagnose and treat scoliosis. He will develop a specific treatment plan for your condition and help assist in the management of scoliosis. Call our office today to schedule your appointment.
