SCOLIOSIS
CHIROPRACTIC
SCOLIOSIS
Scoliosis is the term used to describe the sideways curvature of the spine. It can occur most often during the growth spurt just before puberty and can be a cause of back pain, neck pain, shoulder pain or headaches in children and adults.
Signs & Symptoms of Scoliosis
Signs:
- Uneven shoulder heights,
- Uneven waist creases,
- One shoulder blade that sticks out more than the other,
- One hip higher than the other,
- An obvious exaggerated curve of the spine.
Symptoms:
- Discomfort, Stiffness or Pain in the:
- Neck,
- Middle back,
- Low back,
- Tension headaches,
- Top of the Shoulder discomfort, especially to one side,
- Shoulder pain.
Depending on how the spine curves, the curvature may appear like an “S” or “C” shape. (Illustration)
The scoliotic curvature can weaken the integrity of the spine and apply different stresses to the joints compared to a straight spine. This can in turn change the way the muscles function and can lead to pain and discomfort.
Early diagnosis and treatment of scoliosis is important.
Quick Facts
- 2-4% of Children will develop some form of scoliosis,
- Boys and girls develop scoliosis at the same rate but:
- Girls have a much higher risk of the curve worsening and requiring treatment.
- Research shows that up to 40% of Adults aged 50-80yo with lower back pain have a scoliosis,
- The best results for scoliosis treatment occur when it is detected early and treated correctly.
Short Term and Long Term Effects of Scoliosis
If the scoliosis curve gets worse, it can:
- Become more noticeable,
- Unevenness of the hips and shoulders,
- Prominent ribs,
- A shift of the waist and torso to the side.
- Psychological consideration: This can cause the individual to become self-conscious about their appearance and may lead to problems with body image and self-esteem. They may need emotional support.
- Cause disruption to daily activities because of discomfort or pain,
- Affect lung and heart function as the rib cage press against these organs:
- Breathing difficulties,
- Harder for the heart to pump.
- Lead to accelerated degeneration of the spinal joints.
How We Can Help People with Scoliosis:
- Provide appropriate Chiropractic care to:
- Reduce pain and discomfort,
- Ease spinal joint restrictions,
- Reduce muscular imbalance,
- Improve and optimise spinal function.
- Provide postural, ergonomic and lifestyle advice to help you manage your condition,
- Monitor for progression,
- Refer to appropriate practitioners for co-management, if necessary.
Call us today
If you or your child is suffering from pain or discomfort caused by scoliosis or you suspect the presence of scoliosis, call our office for a consultation on 9394 8888. We will carry out the appropriate examinations to determine if there is a scoliosis, its type and provide appropriate advice moving forward. It is important to identify and provide appropriate care in order to achieve the best results.
Our aim is to help you find the right care for your needs.
Click on this link to find out what to expect on your first consultation.
Helpful Resources:
- Scoliosis Australia,
- Scoliosis Research Society
- Society on Scoliosis Orthopaedic and Rehabilitation Treatment (SOSORT)
- Australian Orthotic Prosthetic Association (AOPA) factsheet
Disclaimer: The information on this page is for education purposes only. Please consult with your doctor or other health professional to make sure this information is right for you.
Addressing The Cause
Our intention at Meadows Life Chiropractic Health & Wellness Centre is to help you address the Cause of the Symptoms that you may present with. We look for and correct the underlying shifts in the spine that is responsible for these symptoms through chiropractic adjustments and providing appropriate advice on exercises and lifestyle changes.
Click on the conditions below to learn more.
- Low Back Pain
- Neck Pain
- Shoulder Pain
- Headaches
- Whiplash from Vehicle accident
- Sciatica
- Osteoarthritis
- Slipped or Bulging Disc
- Pregnancy
- Dizziness or Vertigo
- TMJ/Jaw locking/Chewing pain
- Tennis or Golfer's Elbow
- Scoliosis
- Spondylolisthesis
- Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
- Repetitive Strain Injuries
- Rotator Cuff Injuries
- Poor posture
Are you ready to make an appointment?
Our aim is to help you get the care you need. With a thorough examination on the first visit, we can find out if we can help you with chiropractic.
We will help you understand your condition and create a customised plan of care for you. Then once you’ve achieved the necessary improvements, we will advise on how to maintain these changes.
Call us today on 9315 8888 or click here to book online! We’re looking forward to hearing from you!