Newmarket Chiropractor and Scoliosis

We see many kids and adults who come into our Newmarket chiropractic office wondering if there is anything that can be done to help with scoliosis.  They have been told to just “watch and wait”.  There is always something that one can do to help mitigate, manage, and sometimes even reduce their curve.

What is Scoliosis?

Scoliosis is a side bend of the spine when looking from the back –  a sideways curve.  We see many people who come into our office who have been told they have scoliosis, when in fact they do not.  To be diagnosed with scoliosis, a person must have 10-degree curve or more.  If the measured curve is less than 10 degrees (measured by x-ray analysis), the person often will have a shift (translation) in their spine, which is much easier to manage.  The first step is getting a measurement of the curve.

Symptoms and Signs of Scoliosis

Some people won’t have any signs, symptoms or pain with scoliosis – especially if the curve is not that advanced.  Others may have various symptoms that could include (but not limited to):

• Pain in the area of curve – neck, mid-back, low-back, or pelvis
• Decreased range of motion
• In severe cases, respiratory, cardiac, or digestive complaints
• A feeling of being “off balanced” or “out of alignment”

Signs could include:

• Abnormal posture (measurable)
• Uneven musculature on one side of the spine
• Shoulder, hips, or pelvis uneven
• Neurological signs
• “rib-humping” caused by rotation of the rib cage
• A short leg

What Can be Done?

We believe in always taking an active approach in your health and that “watch and wait” for any health concern is just bad advice.  Depending on the type of scoliosis (structural or functional), there are a few things you can do to try and help yourself:

1. Stay active and exercise (you really should be evaluated so that you can be recommended the correct exercises and what to avoid based on your specific case).
2. See a chiropractor who has experience with scoliosis. Someone who can take and evaluate your x-rays and provide a program of mirror-image adjustments and mirror-image exercises.  Also, a chiropractor can help determine whether a referral to an appropriate professional is required.
3. Stay well hydrated and eat a healthy diet. Click here to get you started on choosing the right foods to give your body the best chance of staying healthy and to reduce any excess inflammation you may have.
4. You will need to do some rehabilitation at home.  One specific thing you can do at home that is designed to help with scoliosis is a ‘scoliroll’.

There are many things you can do to help manage your scoliosis.  A little bit of work on your part goes a long way in helping yourself. 😊

Be proactive,