Scoliosis

Scoliosis Q&A

What is scoliosis?

Scoliosis is a medical condition that begins as a minor bend in the spine that gradually progresses over a lifetime. Scoliosis often begins with the misalignment of a single vertebrae. Overtime, the body compensates to ensure the head remains level by building musculature that will continue to pull the spine into lateral curves A scoliosis diagnosis is made when the spine curves more than ten degrees to the left (Levoscoliosis) or right (dextroscoliosis). The curve could be mild, moderate, or severe and may worsen--especially in children as they grow. Scoliosis may advance to more extreme stages, and can cause pain and other debilitating symptoms when left untreated. At Indian Harbor Chiropractic we identify scoliosis and its stage so we can work to reverse its effects and return your body to full health.

What are the symptoms of scoliosis?

Common signs and symptoms of scoliosis include:

• Curved or twisted spine
• One prominent shoulder blade
• Uneven shoulders
• An uneven waist
• One hip that’s higher than the other
• A prominent side of your back or rib cage
• Back pain, especially with movement
• Neck pain
• Shoulder pain
• Buttox pain

Complications that can occur with untreated scoliosis include breathing problems, back issues, painful menstruation, disability, and a visibly curved spine or stooped posture. It can also lead to recurring injuries linked to sciatica.

What are the risk factors for scoliosis?

Common causes of scoliosis are postural issues, degenerative diseases (osteoporosis), and traumatic accidents. In children, scoliosis occurs during growth spurts and development, particularly in kids age 10-12. While the cause of scoliosis isn’t always clear, risk factors include:

• Congenital issues
• Cerebral palsy
• Muscular dystrophy
• Other neuromuscular conditions
• Spinal cord abnormalities
• Spine injuries or infections
• Previous chest wall surgery
• Family history of scoliosis

Symptoms of scoliosis often appear during adolescence. If you have scoliosis that’s painful or debilitating, see Dr. Gailes for an evaluation.

How does my doctor diagnose scoliosis?

Scoliosis can first be identified when the shoulders and pelvis no longer appear level. To find out if you have scoliosis and develop a treatment plan if needed, Dr. Gailes will perform a physical examination to assess the patient's gait and will assess the curvature of the spine. An Adams Position Test, which requires the patient to bend forward as far as possible, can indicate whether an issue is present or not. If a significant curvature is identified, an x-ray may be used to diagnose and determine the stage of scoliosis.

What are common scoliosis treatments?

Dr. Gailes may recommend one or more of the following scoliosis treatments for you:

Chiropractic adjustments

Dr. Gailes offers a variety of innovative chiropractic adjustments to relieve nerve pressure and muscle tension, and realign your spine.

Spinal manipulation therapy (SMT)

Spinal manipulation is a technique where Dr. Gailes will apply a controlled thrust to a joint of the spine. This motion moves the joint more than it would on its own. SMT is actually a collection of techniques which include massage or mobilization of soft tissue, adjustment of spinal subluxations, trigger point therapy, cross-friction massage, active release therapy, and mechanical traction on an area of the spine or on an extremity.

Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS)

TENS sends electrical pulses through the skin to start your body's own painkillers. The electrical pulses can release endorphins and other substances to stop pain signals in the brain. TENS can reduce pain. Tens also works on muscles and causes muscle contractions by stimulating α-motor neurons. It is highly effective in improving muscle function, strengthening muscles, and improving joint range of motion.

Laser therapy

Dr. Gailes is currently the only chiropractor in Greenwich, CT offering Class IV Laser Therapy. Dr. Gailes uses chiropractic adjustments and laser therapy to treat a variety of musculoskeletal conditions and speed up recovery times for all types of injuries. Laser therapy will reduce pain by over 50% in three to four treatments and can complement chiropractic adjustments or be used as an independent form of treatment.

Massage

During massage therapy, Dr. Gailes uses manual soft tissue manipulation techniques to reduce muscle tension and stress and relieve nerve pressure and back pain naturally.

Home remedies

Things you can do at home to diminish scoliosis pain include performing exercises or stretches as directed by your primary care physician, using ice or heat packs, and avoiding heavy lifting or other activities that could injure your back.

Back braces

Dr. Gailes might recommend you wear a back brace to correct scoliosis, reduce the risk of disease progression, diminish scoliosis pain, and lower your risk of injuries.

Specialist referrals

If you need back surgery, Dr. Gailes refers you to a specialist who can surgically straighten your spine.
​​​​​​​

Begin with chiropractic care today

To learn more about holistic scoliosis treatments available at Indian Harbor Chiropractic, call the office or schedule an appointment online today.