Scoliosis FAQ Answered by a Scottsdale, AZ Chiropractor

Scoliosis is more common than you may think. This particular spinal condition may make you feel self-conscious about your appearance. It has the potential to cause pain and discomfort as well. A chiropractic clinic like Secrest Family Chiropractic, serving Scottsdale, AZ, and the surrounding area, can identify the condition and provide you with alternatives to surgery and other invasive treatments.

What is Scoliosis?

Scoliosis describes an abnormal curvature of the spine. In patients with scoliosis, the spine curves sideways. Sometimes, the curvature is only a few degrees off, but other patients have more serious cases. The spine could even begin to twist over time. Generally, scoliosis starts during adolescence. However, some patients don't develop it until later. 

What Are the Symptoms of Scoliosis?

People who have scoliosis may have uneven shoulders. One shoulder blade may be more prominent than the other. Some patients notice they have an uneven waist or one hip is higher than the other. The condition may worsen over time. In the more serious cases, breathing might become difficult because the lungs don't have an adequate amount of space. Some people might have pain or discomfort because the spinal misalignment irritates the nearby nerves and tissue. 

How is Scoliosis Diagnosed? 

A chiropractor in Scottsdale, AZ may be able to diagnose the condition visually by evaluating the curvature of your spine when you bend over. Some patients have such a mild case that a chiropractor can only diagnose the condition from an x-ray of the spine or other imaging like a CT or MRI. 

What Causes Scoliosis?

Oftentimes, the cause of scoliosis is unknown. Hereditary factors play a role in the onset of scoliosis. Girls are more likely to develop it than boys. Certain neuromuscular conditions like cerebral palsy or muscular dystrophy can cause it. Birth defects, injuries, and infections cause scoliosis in some cases. 

How is Scoliosis Treated?

A chiropractic clinic in Scottsdale, AZ begins the treatment process by evaluating the condition. If the person's curvature isn't severe, close monitoring is required to ensure the condition doesn't worsen. The chiropractor may need to prescribe a brace to combat the curving. The brace is specially fitted for the patient by the chiropractor to ensure comfort and the ultimate results. Some patients benefit from a chiropractic adjustment or spinal decompression. Both of these treatments have the potential to relieve pressure on the discs, muscles, and nerves from the spine irritating or compressing them. A chiropractor will monitor the condition and refer you to a surgeon if the condition worsens enough. 

Visit Secrest Family Chiropractic for Scoliosis Treatment Today

If you think you may have scoliosis or have it, schedule an appointment with Secrest Family Chiropractic, serving Scottsdale, AZ, and the surrounding area, by calling 480-462-5583 today.