Scoliosis Explanation, Classification, and Treatment

Your spine involves 24 bones, aligned one on top of the next and normally in a straight line. “Scoliosis” is a spine curve from side to side greater than 10 degrees. When viewed from the back, your spine should be mostly straight. Scoliosis affects between 1-3% of the population. It may begin at any time between birth and adulthood. Yet, scoliosis is most concerning during times when your skeleton is growing rapidly. It is during a child’s growth spurt that scoliosis can quickly increase, becoming a significant problem. Most cases of scoliosis begin between the ages of 13 and 18. Researchers are not completely certain why some people develop scoliosis, but they have found that the most difficult cases tend to run in families.

WHAT IS TRUE SPINAL SCOLIOSIS?

The Greek word “scolios” means crooked or curved. The ancient Greeks used this term to describe an abnormal lateral curvature of the spine. Our doctors of chiropractic recognize that scoliosis is more than a simple lateral deviation of the spine. A specific diagnosis of scoliosis is a “three-dimensional torsional deformity of the spine and trunk.”

A chiropractor uses an x-ray to measure a scoliosis. Although some curves get worse, most do not. In fact, only ¼ of all adolescent idiopathic scoliosis curves will progress. Small curves in mature patients have a low risk of progression (2%), while large curves in younger patients progress more frequently (70%). Curve progression is more common in girls, especially those with larger curves (greater than 20 degrees). Your doctor of chiropractic or pediatric orthopedist may need to monitor your scoliosis for progression by performing x-rays every 6-18 months.

Scoliosis may cause your shoulders, hips, or waist to be unlevel. Most curves are classified as “right thoracic”, which means that the peak of your curve protrudes toward the right. This is often accompanied by a forward rotation of your right shoulder and “winging” of your right shoulder blade. Many patients have a secondary curve in their lower spine. This double curve, like the letter “S”, forms to keep the head over the center of gravity. Patients with double or multiple curves are more likely to progress than those with a single curve. The majority of patients with mild to moderate scoliosis have no symptoms, but approximately 25% report back pain. Unfortunately, scoliosis increases your risk of developing back pain later in life.

THE PRIMARY GOAL OF SCOLIOSIS CHIROPRACTIC TREATMENT IS TO STOP CURVE PROGRESSION.

While appropriate management can slow or even reverse a curve, it’s important to know that sometimes curves progress despite excellent care. Conservative, nonsurgical care, including spinal manipulation and rehabilitative exercise like the type provided in our office, helps some patients with scoliosis. Chiropractic rehabilitation, involving exercise, is an effective treatment for scoliosis. It is important that you clearly understand your home exercise program and that you perform it consistently.

Patients with larger curves (30-40 degrees), or those who are at high risk for progression may benefit from wearing a brace. Research shows that custom braces may decrease the need for surgery in about three out of four patients. Fortunately, less than 0.3% of all scoliosis cases will ever require surgery.

Sports and exercise will not worsen most cases of scoliosis, and you should continue to participate in the things you enjoy unless directed otherwise by your doctor. The diagnosis of scoliosis is always discouraging, but you must focus on what it is really most important. Be confident in who you are! Don’t let something like a curved spine (or any other medical condition) define you as a person.

ACCURATE WAYS TO UNDERSTAND AND TREAT SCOLIOSIS

The right way to understand and treat scoliosis can help you choose the best care from orthopedic and chiropractic specialists.

Scoliosis is divided into different types. One is “congenital,” which means it’s there when someone is born. Another is “secondary,” which happens because of other muscle or nerve problems in the body, like spinal muscular atrophy. The third type is “idiopathic.” This one is a bit mysterious because there’s no clear reason for it. It’s the most common type, making up 85% of all scoliosis cases. Scientists aren’t entirely sure why it happens, but it might involve different factors, including genetics since it often appears in families. Even twins might both have it.

Finding out how common scoliosis is can be a bit tricky. It depends on the age of the people studied and how the diagnosis is made. When using a common way to define scoliosis, which is when the spine curves more than 10 degrees on an X-ray, it’s found in 1 to 3 out of 100 people. That’s why it’s the most frequent type of problem affecting the spine and needing special care.

Scoliosis can start at any time between birth and when a person becomes an adult, but it’s more common during times of quick bone growth. Our spines grow most during three stages: from 6 to 24 months old, 5 to 8 years old, and 11 to 14 years old. Depending on when it begins, scoliosis is classified into different groups:

If it happens before 5 years old, it’s “congenital scoliosis.”
Between 6 and 12 years old, it’s “early onset scoliosis.”
From 13 to 18 years old, it’s “adolescent idiopathic scoliosis.”

Even babies can have scoliosis, and it’s different from other types. Boys tend to get it more, and it often makes their upper body curve to the left. Interestingly, for 3 out of 4 babies, the problem gets better on its own.

For older kids with early onset scoliosis, it’s a bit like what teenagers get, but it’s usually on the right side and needs more attention from doctors. These kids often need special help like a brace or even surgery.

The most common type is for teenagers. Sometimes they don’t even notice it for a while. But in some cases, the curve can get worse as they grow. This is more likely to happen if the curve is big and if the person is still young. Smaller curves usually stay the same after a person stops growing, but bigger curves can get worse. So, doctors look at things like how much a person has grown and when certain body changes happen to decide what to do.

If you’re worried about scoliosis or have questions, don’t wait. Our doctors are here to help. Getting a consultation can give you a clear picture of what’s going on and what can be done. Taking this step could make a big difference in your health. Schedule a consultation today to discuss your concerns and get the right advice for your well-being.

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Dr. J. Colby Poston, DC
2845 Summer Oaks Dr., Memphis, TN 38134
(901) 377-2340

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