Your spine is made up of 24 bones called your vertebrae they stack on top of each other in a straight line. "Scoliosis" means that your spine is curving from side to side, rather than being straight. Scoliosis affects 1-3% of the population. Scoliosis may begin at any time between birth and adulthood but is most common during times that your skeleton is growing rapidly. Most cases of scoliosis begin between the ages of 13 and 18. Researchers are not completely certain why some people develop scoliosis, but they have found that the problem tends to run in families.
The curve of your scoliosis may be measured with an x-ray which will give you a good baseline to monitor your condition. Although some curves may get worse, most stay about the same. In fact, only a quarter of all adolescent scoliosis curves will progress. Small curves in mature patients have a low risk of progression, while large curves in younger patients progress more frequently. Curve progression is more common in girls, especially those with larger curves (greater than 20 degrees). Your doctor may monitor your scoliosis for progression by performing x-rays every 6-18 months.
Scoliosis may cause your shoulders, hips, or waist to be unlevel. The curvature in your spine may also place more stress and pressure on one side of your joints and muscles. Most patients with mild to moderate scoliosis have no symptoms, but approximately a quarter of patients report back pain. Unfortunately, scoliosis increases your risk of developing back pain later in life because of the extra stress placed on some joints may cause them to wear down quicker. The primary goal of scoliosis treatment is to stop curve progression and to maintain joint health through proper motion within your spine. With proper joint and muscle flexibility, we are able to decrease the pace at which degeneration can occur within the spine.
Many cases can be slowed or even reversed through appropriate management. Scoliosis treatment includes chiropractic spinal manipulation (like the type provided in our office), traction, manual therapy, and exercises. It is important that you clearly understand your home exercise program and that you perform it consistently. Patients with larger curves (30-40 degrees) or those who are at high risk for progression may benefit from wearing a brace. Braces have been shown to decrease the need for surgery in about three out of four patients. Fortunately, less than 0.3% of all scoliosis cases will ever require surgery.
If you have any questions please contact the best chiropractor in Debary at (386) 320-0325 and find out how we can help you or someone you know.
Call us today at (386)-320-0325 for relief of your symptoms or for assistance in reaching optimal health.
Call us today at (386)-320-0325 for relief of your symptoms or for assistance in reaching optimal health.
