Scoliosis

What is scoliosis?

Scoliosis is a condition that causes a curvature of the spine which can range from very mild to severe. Moderate to severe cases typically require bracing, ideally during the growing years, to help correct. Mild cases typically do not require treatment beyond regular monitoring to ensure the condition doesn't progress. However, mild scoliosis can still require treatment for symptoms like pain, numbness and achiness.

What causes scoliosis?

The underlying causes of most cases of scoliosis are unknown, but some types can occur as a result of trauma, neuromuscular diseases, birth defects, osteoporosis, back surgery or tumors. Curvature can occur from side to side, front to back or both, and it most often develops during adolescence when the spine is undergoing a rapid period of growth. Spinal curvature can also occur in older age as a result of bone loss through osteoporosis.

How can chiropractic care help relieve the painful symptoms associated with mild to moderate scoliosis?

Chiropractors are highly trained in caring for people with spinal conditions like scoliosis. Gentle spinal adjustments and deep tissue manipulation can help reduce nerve impingements that can occur when the spine is twisted out of alignment, as well as improving circulation and neural messaging necessary for optimal health and relief of inflammation. In addition, a chiropractor can help patients with scoliosis learn about important habits that can help relieve pain, including practicing good posture at work and school, using ergonomic devices to relieve stress on the back, using proper lifting techniques, employing therapeutic exercises and stretching, and other lifestyle changes. Regular chiropractic adjustments provide important information about the spine, enabling each treatment to be customized based on the patient's individual needs and symptoms as well as the degree of curvature that's present.

Dr. Dolan diagnoses and addresses the underlying cause of your pain, rather than masking them. This helps prevent future injuries too. For example, if the pain is caused by your lower back or posture imbalance, Dr. Dolan aligns the vertebrae in your lower back to reduce discomfort. Following treatment, he provides thorough instructions so you can continue to heal with therapeutic stretching and exercises within your home. These exercises may relieve strain in your joints.

Book an appointment online with Dolan Chiropractic today and begin your journey of recovery.