Scoliosis FAQ: The Most Pressing Questions Answered

According to research, approximately two percent of the population has scoliosis. While there's a lot we still don't understand about this condition, we do know quite a bit. Here are answers to some of the most pressing questions about scoliosis. If you have scoliosis, visit our clinic at Great Plains Chiropractic in West Fargo, ND.

How Does Scoliosis Happen?

There are many possible causes of scoliosis, but in most cases, the exact cause is unknown. It's believed to be a combination of genetic and environmental factors. There are some rare cases where scoliosis is caused by neuromuscular conditions like cerebral palsy or muscular dystrophy, but these account for only a small percentage of all scoliosis cases.

What Are the Symptoms of Scoliosis?

The most obvious symptom of scoliosis is a curvature of the spine. This can cause the shoulders or hips to appear uneven and the ribs to stick out more on one side than the other. In severe cases, scoliosis can also cause pain, fatigue, and difficulty breathing.

Is Scoliosis Hereditary?

There is no single gene that causes scoliosis, but it does tend to run in families. If you have a parent or sibling with scoliosis, you're more likely to develop it yourself. However, most people with scoliosis don't have any family history of the condition.

Do You Have to Wear a Brace if You Have Scoliosis?

Not everyone with scoliosis needs to wear a brace, but it is often recommended for children who are still growing. The goal of bracing is to prevent the curve from getting worse. It's usually only worn during the day and can be removed for activities like bathing or sleeping.

What Is the Treatment for Scoliosis?

The treatment for scoliosis depends on the severity of the curve and how much the person is still growing. For mild cases, no treatment may be necessary. In more severe cases, a brace or surgery may be recommended. Surgery is usually only considered when the curve is over 50 degrees and other treatments haven't worked.

How Can a Chiropractor Help Scoliosis?

A chiropractor can help scoliosis by correcting the alignment of the spine and pelvis, which in turn can help alleviate pain and improve range of motion. A chiropractor can do more than just crack your back. They're highly trained in spinal manipulation and other techniques that can help improve your overall health and well-being. Some of these techniques include:

• Spinal adjustments
• Massage therapy
• Physical therapy
• Lifestyle counseling

All of these techniques can help improve your spine's alignment, which can, in turn, help reduce pain and improve range of motion. Chiropractic care may be right for you if you're looking for a natural way to relieve your scoliosis symptoms.

Schedule an Appointment for Scoliosis Diagnosis and Management Today

If you or someone you love has been diagnosed with scoliosis, then you probably have a lot of questions. We hope that this FAQ has helped to answer some of them. As always, Great Plains Chiropractic is here to help. If you'd like to learn more about how we can help, please don't hesitate to give us a call or stop by our office in West Fargo, ND.