A normal spine has an S-curvature when you look at it from the side.  In someone with scoliosis, the spine curves to one side or the other as you look at the individual from the back.  While the spinal ailment most often occurs in children under the age of 18, it can occur at any age.  Dr. Daniel P. Secrest, DC can diagnose and treat your abnormal spinal curvature with several different non-invasive treatment options.

Types of Scoliosis

• Congenital
• Neuromuscular
• Degenerative
• Idiopathic

Individuals with congenital scoliosis were born with it.  It usually occurs as the result of abnormal bone development. Degenerative scoliosis occurs in older individuals and is usually the result of a traumatic injury or bone disease.  It can also be caused by a failed back surgery. Neuromuscular scoliosis is usually the result of a muscle or nerve disease that prevents the individual from walking normally or walking at all.  Idiopathic scoliosis does not have a cause.  Though, it is suspected to be genetic.

Signs and Symptoms of Scoliosis in Phoenix

Scoliosis is an abnormal curvature of the spine that does not typically cause pain.  Usually, the causes of pain in individuals with abnormal spinal curvatures are the same as in the general population.

• Abnormal Side-Curvature of the Spine
• One Leg Appears Shorter
• One Shoulder Is Higher than the Other

A simple visual screening from our Scottsdale chiropractor can identify an abnormal curvature of the spine.  If an abnormal curvature is detected, we may recommend an x-ray to determine the degree of abnormal curvature.

Treatment with Our Scottsdale Chiropractor

The goal of treatment from our Scottsdale chiropractor is to monitor and help prevent any further curvature. We do this by using a multitude of different treatments and programs.

Monitoring

Monitoring involves periodically examining the spin, measuring the curvature and comparing it to previous measurements.  As a general rule, curvatures below 40 percent are not candidates for surgery.

Back Braces

Back braces can help children with abnormal spinal curvatures.  However, they must be fitted properly for the type of curvature present, and they must be worn for a certain number of days in order to be effective.

Chiropractic Adjustments

Chiropractic adjustments may be used to treat abnormal spinal curvatures as an alternative method to try and prevent further curvature of the spine.  However, they should be combined with other traditional methods, including monitoring and bracing.

Massage Therapy

Massage therapy can be used to help manage back pain and muscle fatigue.  While it does not directly affect the curvature of the spine, it can be used to help facilitate feelings of well-being, loosen tight muscles and ligaments and help with relaxation and sleep.

Contact Secrest Family Chiropractic Today!

To schedule an appointment at Secrest Family Chiropractic, call us at (480) 994-4411. We serve all of Scottsdale as well as the surrounding communities of Chandler, Mesa, Paradise Valley, Phoenix, Tempe and Fountain Hills, AZ