SCOLIOSIS

WHAT IS SCOLIOSIS?

Everyone's spine has a natural front-to-back curve -- that's what

produces the normal rounding of the shoulders and the sway of

the lower back.  However, some people suffer from "Scoliosis" --

an abnormal curvature of the spine, especially one characterized

by a rotational side-to-side deformity.



In simple terms, what this means is that the spine is twisted

side-to-side, often taking on an "S" shaped appearance and even

resembling a corkscrew in some cases.



Almost three out of every 100 people have some degree of

abnormal spinal curvature, and for some it never becomes a

serious problem.  But for many others, the curve gets worse over

time and can cause considerable pain, frustration, and limitations

on normal activities.  Severe scoliosis can even complicate

breathing and circulation.

WHO SUFFERS FROM SCOLIOSIS?

The most common form of scoliosis is called idiopathic scoliosis,

which basically means that the cause is unknown.  Anyone can

suffer from scoliosis; the condition usually begins in childhood,

although too often it is not identified until the teenage years or later.



Scoliosis tends to run in families, and it affects many more girls

than boys.  In fact, research indicates that girls are nearly eight

times more likely than boys to have scoliosis and five times more

likely to require some form of treatment for their condition than

boys, and the curvature of their spine is more likely to worsen

over time, especially if left unattended.

WHAT ARE SOME OF THE SYMPTOMS OF SCOLIOSIS?

Sometimes curvature of the spine is visible (the body tilts to the

left or the right, or one shoulder blade is raised higher than the

other).  Some of the actual physical symptoms of scoliosis can

include back pain, fatigue (especially postural fatigue -- feeling

tired when standing, sitting, etc.), and, in more severe cases,

problems with circulation and breathing. 

WHAT CAN CHIROPRACTIC DO?

Doctors of chiropractic are trained to identify and manage

problems relating to the spine and the back.  An initial visit to 

the chiropractor will include a thorough physical and diagnostic

examination (including range-of-motion tests and spinal x-rays) to

identify any problems you may be having, including whether you

or your children may be suffering from abnormal or dangerous

curvature of the spine. 



If you do show signs of scoliosis, your chiropractor can provide a

variety of techniques to help your condition, including spinal

adjustments to increase movement and biomechanical function, and 

advice on posture and exercise to help prevent further increase 

in the problem.