Scoliosis

Scoliosis is characterized by a sideways curvature of the spine. It often starts during childhood, during the growth spurt that occurs right before puberty. In many cases, the condition is mild, and the child might not get treatment. If the condition continues into adulthood, it can result in more problems. In cases like this, chiropractic care with Fairway Chiropractic can help.

Certain factors can cause scoliosis or increase your risk factor for developing it. These include:

• Neuromuscular conditions: Conditions such as cerebral palsy and muscular dystrophy can cause this condition.
• Birth defects: Any birth defect that affects the development of the bones of the spine can cause scoliosis.
• Injuries or infections of the spine
• Family history: Scoliosis can run in families.

The symptoms of scoliosis would depend on the severity of the condition. The symptoms include:

• One shoulder that is higher than the other
• One shoulder blade that appears to be sticking out more than the other
• An uneven waist
• One hip that seems to be higher than the other
• In severe cases, the ribs on one side of the body can protrude further than the other.

There are a few ways that scoliosis can be diagnosed. These include:

• Physical exam: During the physical exam, the doctor would have you bend over at the waist with your arms hanging loosely. If one side of the rib sticks out more than the other, scoliosis is detected.
• Neurological exam: Your doctor will perform a neurological exam to test for abnormal reflexes, muscle weakness, and numbness.
• Imaging tests: Your doctor can detect scoliosis using an x-ray. The severity of the condition will also show up on the scan. If your doctor wants to test for an underlying condition that could be causing scoliosis such as a tumor, they may order an MRI or a CT scan.

There are a few treatment options available for scoliosis. In minor cases, a brace would be worn during the day, at night, or all the time. In severe cases, a surgical procedure called a spinal fusion would be necessary. This will hold the spine straight while old and new bone material fuses together using metal rods, screws, or hooks.

A chiropractor can also help with scoliosis. A chiropractor cannot treat the curve in the spin, but it can help improve your form, function, and increase mobility in the joints

If you have scoliosis, schedule an appointment with Fairway Chiropractic. Our chiropractor in Kitchener can create a treatment plan to relieve you of your back pain and other symptoms. To schedule an appointment, give us a call today at (519)-748-5916.