Scoliosis

Scoliosis is an abnormal lateral curvature of the spine (The spine should be straight when viewed from the front or back). It usually consists of two curves, the original curve and a compensatory curve in the opposite direction. Lateral curvatures may develop from subluxations in the spine and/or pelvis, congenital development, leg length inequality, scar tissue contraction, spinal injuries, muscle imbalances, neurological disorders, ocular imbalances, bone deformities, rickets and more.

Scoliosis screening can easily be performed by having the patient bend forward and touch their toes while someone else looks at their back. If one side of the back is higher, a scoliosis should be strongly suspected. Moderate to severe scoliosis may be detected by anyone using this method however early or subtle scoliosis cases may be missed by an untrained eye so it is wise to have all children screened yearly by a chiropractor for this deformity during adolescence.

When the spine suffers a scoliotic curvature, a great deal of stress and abnormal function occurs in the body. The ability of the nervous system to coordinate and control all structures and organs of the body is affected. Depending on the cause of the scoliosis, chiropractic may be able to help correct the curve and improve the functioning of the nerves and body in general.

Many people have found that chiropractic is very successful in stopping the progressive worsening of spinal curvatures which often occurs. Chiropractic care can also help reduce many types of abnormal curvatures if detected early enough. Leaving any scoliosis untreated always results in early degeneration of the spinal joints and progressively declining health.