Woman's Health

What exactly is scoliosis? An experienced chiropractor, such as your Grand Rapids chiropractor, can define it clearly for you: scoliosis is an abnormal side-to-side (lateral) curvature of the spine. Your chiropractor wants you to be informed that there is a major difference between bad posture and the condition termed scoliosis. Whereas bad posture is easily correctable, scoliosis, an abnormal lateral curvature of the spine, is far more difficult to overcome.

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What precisely is scoliosis? A knowledgeable chiropractor, such as your Grand Rapids chiropractor, will put it simply: scoliosis is an abnormal side-to-side (lateral) curvature of the spine. If you aren’t familiar with the presentation of scoliosis, you may unintentionally confuse it with poor posture because very often a person who has scoliosis gives the appearance of leaning to one side.

Even before going to see your chiropractor in Grand Rapids, there are a number of ways for you to see the difference between poor posture and scoliosis. First of all, you would likely notice that one shoulder is higher than the other in a standing position, and that the scapula (shoulder blade) is raised or more prominent. In addition, if the person’s arms were hanging freely at his or her sides, you would likely see a greater space between the arm and the body on one side. Moreover, one hip might elevated or more pronounced than the other. And finally, the head will not be in plumb with the pelvis.

Scoliosis symptoms can be mild; however, if the curve and rib rotation are dramatic enough, both pulmonary and cardiac functions can be restricted. In fewer than 15% of scoliosis cases, the cause is known. Most of the time, the cause is unknown. This type of scoliosis (Idiopathic) tends to run in families and is considered to have a genetic component.

Idiopathic Scoliosis most often develops during adolescence when the body is completing its last major growth spurt. Most frequently girls develop this type of scoliosis. If found, a scoliotic curve should be monitored for any progression. Your chiropractor in Grand Rapids will not only provide periodic examinations, but will suggest standing x-rays if needed.

Because most scoliotic curvatures are mild to moderate, a brace is unnecessary. In these cases, regular chiropractic care is beneficial in both in decreasing and adjusting any compensatory musculoskeletal conditions that may occur.

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