What is Scoliosis?
What Causes Scoliosis?
A small percentage of scoliosis cases are caused by conditions such as cerebral palsy or muscular dystrophy. A severe accident or spinal degeneration can also cause scoliosis. However, for most cases, there is no known cause. That’s why managing the symptoms of the condition is so important, so that its progression may be slowed.
How Does Scoliosis Affect the Body?
The spine is responsible for providing support to keep us upright. More importantly, it houses and protects the spinal cord, which is the highway for neurons going from and returning to the brain. Nerves come out of the spine and serve every part of the body. If one or more pieces of the spine are misaligned, the spine is not able to do its job properly. This misalignment can cause pain in the back and neck. It can also affect organ function, including the heart and lungs. Scoliosis can also cause misalignment of the hips and pelvis, which can cause hip and pelvic pain as well as affect a person’s gait. Scoliosis can also affect a person’s shoulders, wrists, and hands as well by impinging the associated nerves or by actually putting the shoulder and other structures out of alignment.
How Is Scoliosis Diagnosed?
Scoliosis is diagnosed through a complete physical exam, including a spinal X-ray. Your doctor will also complete a full health history, including questions about any family history of scoliosis and other health issues you’ve had. Scoliosis can usually be seen in X-rays, but make sure to be seen by a doctor who knows what to look for and has experience with diagnosing and treating scoliosis. It is also a good idea to visit a doctor who can rule out other conditions that could be causing the spine to curve. Scoliosis is usually diagnosed during a person’s teenage years, though it can be found in children and adults as well.
Treatment Options for Adults with Scoliosis
If you are diagnosed with scoliosis, your doctor will recommend a course of treatment based on the severity of your condition. Your doctor may recommend that you or your child wear a brace to help correct the scoliosis, or they may recommend surgery. Bracing is a non-invasive treatment that uses a brace to straighten your spine and help control the progression of the disorder. Bracing for adults is often a long-term course of treatment, and is frequently recommended for those who have a moderate to severe case of scoliosis. Make sure to wear your brace as recommended, and follow the instructions of your health care provider.
Chiropractic care is also a very good option for a patient with scoliosis. A chiropractor can help slow the progression of scoliosis and ease pain and other symptoms with proper spinal adjustments.
Conclusion
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