Scoliosis is a treatable condition, but it requires ongoing care and assistance from different professionals. A chiropractor can help people with scoliosis with pain management and misalignment. With the right treatment plan and a firm understanding of the condition, a scoliosis diagnosis doesn’t have to mean a lifetime of chronic pain or limited physical ability.

What Is Scoliosis?

Scoliosis is a condition defined by a “C” or “S” shaped curvature of the spine. It occurs most often during a growth spurt, usually right before puberty. Though most commonly associated with adolescence, the condition affects individuals of all ages, from infancy to adulthood. Scoliosis cases can range from mild to severe. The most common indicators are an off-center rib cage, one hip or shoulder higher than the other, or uneven leg lengths.

Diagnosing the Condition

To diagnose scoliosis, doctors typically perform a physical evaluation of the ribs, spine, hips, and shoulders. If there are any indicators of the condition, they may use a device called a scoliometer to measure the degree of curvature. MRIs, x-rays, and CT scans can assess the shape, direction, and angle of the curvature.

Treatment Options

While scoliosis cannot be “cured,” there are several treatment options available depending on the severity of your case. For young or adolescent individuals whose bones are still developing, braces are the most common treatment recommended. The brace is typically worn all day and can help the condition from worsening as the bones continue to develop. In severe cases of scoliosis, the doctor may recommend surgery to fuse the spine. This procedure helps straighten the bones and discourage the curvature. For individuals coping with pain from scoliosis, a chiropractor may be able to provide relief by improving the misalignment of hips and shoulders.

Long-Term Effects

In most cases, scoliosis does not cause significant long-term impairments. The most common symptom observed is pain stemming from misalignment. Alignment treatments and exercises administered by a chiropractor can help reduce this discomfort.

With more than 35 years of experience, the professionals at Valley Chiropractic Clinic in Juneau, AK, are well-versed in caring for conditions of the musculoskeletal system. Whether you need adjustments due to misalignment from scoliosis or have suffered a sports injury, the chiropractors at Valley Chiropractic are equipped to help you get the relief you need. To learn more about this practice, visit their website or call (907) 789-9549