Scoliosis is the sideways curvature of the spine. It usually develops during a child’s growth spurt just before puberty, between the ages of 10 and 15 years old, and affects about 3% of the population. What causes the spine to curve isn’t always known, but conditions like cerebral palsy and muscular dystrophy have often been thought to cause scoliosis. Genetics is also attributed to the development of scoliosis meaning if one family member had it, others may develop it as they come of age.
Scoliosis is usually detected during a school screening or check up. While a healthy spine runs straight down the middle of the back, those with scoliosis will have a curved backbone described as either an ‘s’ or ‘c’ shape. A curve more than 10 degrees classifies as scoliosis and, if the curve continues to progress, treatment will be given. The kind of intervention depends on the type of scoliosis, the severity of the curve, and the age of the patient.
If scoliosis reaches 20 degrees, a back brace will be administered to the child until they have reached skeletal maturity. The brace is usually enough to stop scoliosis and is successful on 90% of the patients. If the curve continues to progress past 25 degrees despite the brace, surgery might be a considerable option. Posterior spinal fusion surgery is the most common operation to correct scoliosis.
If scoliosis isn’t treated by surgery and continues into adulthood, chiropractic care through spinal adjustments can help improve the form and function of back joints. Spinal manipulations can decrease pain, improve comfort, and prevent further degradation of the spine.
If you’re looking for scoliosis treatment in the Ronkonkoma, New York area, contact Connetquot Chiropractic with any questions or to make an appointment. Here, you’ll be given an extensive evaluation and a personalized recovery plan for maximum results.