Scoliosis – More Than Bad Posture!
What Is Scoliosis?
Scoliosis is a sideways curvature of the spine, causing the spine to curve or twist into a “C” or “S” shape when viewed from the back of the patient.
Scoliosis Facts
- The most common type is Adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (scoliosis of unknown cause).
- Frequently occurs after the age of 10.
- More common for girls than boys.
- Scoliosis can run in families, a child who has a parent, brother, or sister with idiopathic scoliosis should be checked regularly.
- Scoliosis usually exhibits no symptoms. It is frequently diagnosed when someone notices uneven shoulders, waistline discrepancies or a rib prominence.
What Causes Scoliosis?
In general, the cause of scoliosis is not known, hence the term idiopathic scoliosis. instances the cause may be due to one of the vertebra (spinal bones) not forming correctly.
What is the treatment for scoliosis?
Regarding the treatment of scoliosis, there is a significant difference between conservative chiropractic approach and the medical model of treatment.
The medical model of care is:
- Observation if the curve is less than 20 degrees.
- Bracing if the curve is between 20 – 50 degrees
- Surgery if it is over 50 degrees
Chiropractic care recommends evaluation and treatment before it gets beyond 20 degrees. The chiropractic approach is to determine if the cause is due to mechanical dysfunction of the vertebra and joints. If this is the case, specific, painless, adjustments or manipulations are the recommended treatment.
Home Screening
Standing behind your child, examine their posture. Do they have any of the following:
Is one shoulder higher than the other? Y N
Is one hip higher than the other? Y N
Does one shoulder blade stick out? Y N
If there is a child in your life who has these signs, call today 314.731.4383 to make an appointment for an evaluation. Dr. Schmaltz has treated children of all ages for a variety of conditions including scoliosis.