scoliosis

When looking at the adult spine from the side, it is apparent that the spine is not simply straight. Instead, the spine depicts a gentle "S shape curve" whereby the low back and the neck exhibit a gentle inward (concave) curve whilst the mid back curvature is the opposite exhibiting an outward (convex) curve.

When looking at the cotour of the spine from behind, the spine is usually straight although this alignment can become altered in many conditions. The term scoliosis is derived from the Greek work Skolios meaning twisted or crooked and can be observed below  as a lateral (side) deviation of the spinal column.

The lateral curvature observed in a scoliosis is also accompanied by a degree of rotation through the spine and often patient's with a scoliosis have a rib hump on bending forward .

The most common type of Scoliosis is defined as an idiopathic scoliosis whereby the reason for its development is unknown. Other causes inlcude leg length inequalities, congenital defomities, degeneration or neuromuscular conditions such as poliomyelitis.

treatment for a scoliosis

The management of this complaint is largely dependant on the degree of curvature, the cause and the age of the patient. In the absence of any undelying pathology, severe cases will often be managed surgically where as non progressive mild or moderate cases are often treated conservatively.

With a scoliosis, the changes in the natural curvature of the spine leads to abnormal stresses being placed on elements of the spine which should only be involved with minimal stress and weight-bearing. Over time, these abnormal stresses can also lead to compensatory changes above and below the site of the curvature such as changes in pelvic alignment, muscle spasm, joint and disc degeneration and nerve irritation. Subsequently, patients may present to our clinic with these latter sympotms rather than ever noticing any changes in the curvature of their spine.

In the case of structural scoliosis, nothing can be done to correct the faulty alignment present in the spine although treatment may be beneficial in alleviating associated muscle spasm, joint stiffness and compensatory pelvic malalignment.

With a functional scoliosis. treatment as well as postural advice can be given which may help correct the presence of this curvature.

If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact Bodymotion Chiropractic