Scoliosis is a term that refers to an abnormal curve in the spine. Every single patient at Precision Chiropractic & Massage is screened for scoliosis. Scoliosis screening is commonly completed as part of a teenager’s annual physical, or as part of a health screening for athletics. You may be asking “Why are these screenings so important?”
Scoliosis is a condition that can range from minor to incapacitating. When it reaches the point of severe it may require surgery. In some cases, severe scoliosis can even impair the function of the heart and lungs. For these reasons, we take scoliosis very seriously.
Scoliosis is identified most frequently in teenagers. It is more common in females than males and frequently is first noticed near the onset of puberty. I use several different methods to treat scoliosis.
– First and most importantly, I analyze the structure of the spine. Areas in which the structure of the spine has shifted are identified. Once we identify which bones have moved out of place (known as a structural shift), I deliver very gentle, precise chiropractic adjustments to the spine to correct these shifts in structure. Chiropractic adjustments using this approach help to relieve muscle tension, increase range of motion and allow each vertebrae to function effectively.
– Second, the muscles around the spine are analyzed to determine if any areas have increases in tension or decreases in strength. We complete this analysis using a sophisticated tool known as Surface ElectroMyography (SEMG). Typically, scoliosis patients will have one side of the spine that is very tense and another side that is very weak. Once I identify the changes in muscle, I recommend appropriate exercises to stretch or strengthen specific muscles.
– Lastly, we have a team of highly trained massage therapists that understand scoliosis and how it affects the muscles around the spine. They work to release tension in specific muscles. This relieves pressure from the spine and allows the patient to move more effectively.
Children and teenagers with scoliosis need to be monitored very closely to determine if the curve in the spine is progressing. Monitoring may include physical examination or x-rays in some cases. A scoliosis that progresses may require bracing or surgery.
Literature is mixed on whether anything short of surgery can reverse scoliosis. However, my goals are to
A) Prevent the scoliosis from progressing.
B) Prevent the need for invasive and painful surgery.
C) Help the patient improve the health of their nervous system and spine.
D) Decrease or eliminate the painful symptoms that occur with scoliosis.
If you or your child have scoliosis, feel free to contact me for a complimentary consultation. I would be happy to sit down with you to discuss how I can help with your specific case.
