Scoliosis 

Scoliosis is a common condition that affects people of all ages. Scoliosis is a lateral (left or right) change in curve of the spine that varies in degree of change depending on the patient. Most people don’t know that there are actually two types of scoliosis. You may remember being in the nurse’s office at school and having someone check your spine while you were standing and again after you were asked to touch your toes. This is called Adams test and was performed to determine if any scoliosis was present and what type it might be. 

Functional Scoliosis

This type is caused by changes in resting tension of muscles which in turn cause a change in the curve of the spine. When Adams test is performed, the scoliosis will show on standing straight but as the person bends forward, the scoliosis typically disappears as the muscles that are causing the scoliosis lengthen and the imbalance of pull is removed from the equation. Functional scoliosis can be seen in people of all ages if there is a discrepancy or imbalance in the resting tension of muscles on either side of the spine.

Structural Scoliosis

Typically present from a very early age, this is the type of scoliosis that does not typically resolve. The severity of scoliosis varies from person to person and in very extreme cases may require intervention in the form of bracing or surgery. Typically this stems from a condition called Idiopathic Juvenile Scoliosis meaning that it arises with an unknown cause at an early age. 

How can Chiropractic help?

In the case of functional scoliosis, it is a direct result of muscle tension and joint restriction so typically with adjustment and tissue work, the scoliosis can be diminished. This typically means less long term effects of the scoliosis and being much more comfortable in activities of daily living.

In the case of structural scoliosis, the scoliosis can have far reaching effects on the person that it affects depending on the severity and location of the scoliosis. Typically, it causes musculoskeletal changes throughout the back that can cause back pain, neck pain, muscle strain and even changes in gate pattern. While Chiropractic care cannot restore the normal curve of the spine, we strive to counter the symptoms of the scoliosis. Typically pain arises from joints that are now restricted and not moving properly, muscles that are chronically “tight” which causes trigger points and further re-enforces joint restriction and rib motion that diminishes as many times the scoliosis affects the rib levels attaching at the levels of scoliosis. Adjustments and tissue work can help to diminish pain level and allow for a “new normal” for the patient.