What is scoliosis? 

Scoliosis is a term that is used to describe extra curvatures in the spinal column. A “hunched-over” spine, also described as a hyper-kyphosis, effects the spinal curve in the sagittal plane-line. This is something you may visually notice by looking at a spine from the side view. Scoliosis, on the other hand, effects all of the plane-lines but mostly the coronal plane, which is viewed from front-to-back or back-to-front. 

Why does scoliosis occur? 

There are 2 major categories of scoliosis, which are functional and structural. Functional scoliosis is usually acquired over time from chronic subluxations and/or muscular imbalances. This type of scoliosis is usually a result of biomechanical problems that create a compensatory curvature/scoliosis to accommodate those problems. 

Structural scoliosis is something that creates an actual remodeling of the bone. Reasons for structural scoliosis could be due to neurological factors, congenital bone anomalies, developmental factors, nutrient deficiencies, and certain diseases. 

The most common type of scoliosis is called Idiopathic scoliosis. It falls under the structural category. The reason as to why Idiopathic scoliosis formulates is still a mystery despite modern technology and medicine. Some say it is genetic, however only 25-35% of cases report a reoccurrence among relatives. If both parents are affected, there is an increase of occurrence up to 40%. 

How is it diagnosed? 

The best tool for diagnosis is radiographic x-rays. X-rays allow the doctor to see whether or not there are boney anomalies and what levels of vertebrae are involved in the scoliosis. X-rays also give a starting point of scoliosis so that if progression of the scoliosis occurs, it can be identified.  Depending on the severity, scoliosis can also be detected visually or palpably by a chiropractor or orthopedic surgeon. 

If you are diagnosed with scoliosis by a Doctor of Medicine, they will most likely refer you to specialists within their network, which would include an Orthopedic Surgeon and/or Physical Therapist. They RARELY, if ever, refer to practitioners outside of their medical network like Chiropractors, Corrective Exercise Specialists, Personal Trainers, Acupuncturists, Massage Therapists, etc. It is totally fine to see an orthopedic surgeon and/or physical therapist, however, those avenues of care are not a replacement for chiropractic. It is important to take time to think about your options, discuss them with your health team, and decide what is best for you. 

At Cypress Chiropractic, Dr. Sarah will treat each scoliosis case uniquely. If it is determined that x-rays are needed, she will put in an order to her imaging center, Imaging Specialists of Charleston. The images will be available to Dr. Sarah digitally at her office where she can analyze them prior to your next appointment. She will go over the findings and your treatment plan with you at the next appointment. 

Chiropractic will approach treatment by adjusting the subluxations of the spine and body. Adjustments facilitate healing and restore function to the joints and surrounding tissues. Adjustments allow the body to function as optimally as possible. This will slow the progression, stop the progression, or possibly reverse the progression of scoliosis. It all depends on the type and severity. 

How is scoliosis managed? 

When it comes to the management of scoliosis, it involves multiple avenues of care. It also depends on the age at detection and the degree of the curvatures. Chiropractic will ultimately allow the body and spine to function as best as possible, but stretching, strengthening, soft-tissue release, and breath-work are practices that should be done in conjunction with chiropractic. 

If curvatures are past a certain degree, bracing is to be considered, and in some cases, so is surgery. The course of care depends on the case. Scoliosis is a condition that has many variables, but with a good team on your side, you will have answers and ways to improve your situation. 

Thanks for reading the Cypress Chiropractic & Wellness Health Blog. Until next time, stay healthy!