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Scoliosis and Chiropractic

Scoliosis

Teenage girls

Scoliosis seems to mainly affect girls between the ages of 8 to 18.

Scoliosis is an abnormal sideways curvature of the spine. It begins as a postural distortion and can become a permanent deformity. Allowed to advance, it can interfere with the lungs, heart and many other vital organs.

Three Causes
  1. Congenital genetic predisposition
  2. Habitual behavioral routines
  3. Idiopathic unknown cause

Regardless of cause, early detection is essential.

Obvious Clues

An alert parent may notice that a high shoulder or low hip make clothing fit poorly. Uneven shoe wear can offer a clue. Back and leg pains may develop but are often dismissed as “growing pains.”

Wait and See?

Allowed to run its course, scoliosis usually worsens. Severe cases involve unsightly bracing or surgery that attaches steel rods, forcing the spine to straighten.

Natural Approach

Chiropractic care is a more natural solution. A schedule of specific chiropractic adjustments help improve the function and structure of the spine. As muscles are retrained and strengthened, posture can improve. Over the course of several months or longer, the spine can “right itself.”

Chiropractors have helped a lot of young people with scoliosis. Bring your child to an Association member chiropractor for an evaluation and explore the possibilities.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Isn’t a certain amount of sideways curvature normal?

Any type of sideways curvature is abnormal. From the back, the spine should appear straight. When scoliosis is present, there are usually two curves. A primary curve in one direction and a compensatory curve in the opposite direction.
Isn’t scoliosis caused by a lack of calcium?

No. However, there are a growing number of people who believe uncorrected spinal damage from the birth process may be involved. Some theorize that “walkers” may prematurely interrupt the crawling stage so essential for proper spinal development.
Do heavy back-packs cause scoliosis?

Not necessarily, however this is a growing concern. Make sure your son or daughter uses both shoulder straps on their backpacks so the weight is evenly distributed. Weigh their bag. Make sure it doesn’t exceed 10% -15% of their body weight.