Understanding Scoliosis in Teens

How Chiropractic Care Can Help

As a chiropractor, I have seen an increasing number of young girls with mild forms of scoliosis in my office over the past few months. Scoliosis is an abnormal lateral curvature of the spine that can affect anyone, but is most commonly found in pre-pubescent girls between the ages of 11-13. In this blog post, I will discuss what scoliosis is, who is most at risk, and what can be done about it.

Symptoms of Scoliosis: Scoliosis is rated by the measurement of the curvature on an x-ray (the Cobb Angle) and can be mild (10-25 degrees), moderate (25-40 degrees), or severe (>40 degrees). The most common symptoms include uneven shoulders, one shoulder blade appearing more prominent than the other, one hip being higher than the other, one side of the rib cage jutting forward, and a prominence on one side of the back when bending forward (positive Adams Test). It is important to note that scoliosis generally does not cause pain.

Medical Intervention vs. Chiropractic Intervention: Medical doctors take a watch and wait approach to scoliosis. As the child enters puberty and grows more rapidly, the curvature will worsen. If the curve enters the moderate category, the child will likely be braced, which will only maintain the level of the curve, not correct it. If the spine curves to a certain degree, corrective surgery to fuse the spine may be necessary. Chiropractors, on the other hand, can address the cause of scoliosis. Often, there is an imbalance in the hips or sacrum that leads to the unleveling of the base of the spine. The spine will then curve to adapt to the imbalance. By adjusting the spine, stretching, and strengthening exercises, and fitting for orthotics, chiropractors can treat scoliosis in a proactive manner. The course of treatment usually lasts 3-6 months and will be re-evaluated periodically as the child grows.

What Can You Do: If you notice any of the symptoms of scoliosis in your child, please reach out to a chiropractor for an evaluation. The tests are simple and non-invasive, and regular check-ups will help to monitor your child's progress.

In conclusion, scoliosis can be a serious condition that worsens as a child grows. While medical intervention can be reactive and risky, chiropractic care can be proactive and address the underlying cause of scoliosis. If you have any concerns about your child's spinal health, please reach out to us at Healthy Living Chiropractic for an evaluation.