Scoliosis is a spinal health issue in which the spine bends in a C- or S-shaped curve. Anywhere from six to nine million people in the United States alone have scoliosis, and symptoms typically first present themselves between the ages of 10 and 15 years old. While a scoliosis diagnosis might be scary, education is the key to truly understanding this spinal health condition. To shed more light on the subject, below are answers to common questions about scoliosis.

Answers to Common Questions About Scoliosis

What causes scoliosis?

In 80% of cases, an exact cause cannot be determined — these patients are diagnosed with idiopathic scoliosis. Other causes include deformities in the spine (congenital scoliosis) and as a symptom or result of a neurological issue (neuromuscular scoliosis) like muscular dystrophy or spina bifida. Scoliosis does have a genetic component, so if you or your partner have it, there’s an increased chance your child will as well.

What are the symptoms of scoliosis?

The beginnings of a C- or S-shaped spinal curve may not be immediately obvious by just looking at the spine, so it’s important to be aware of some other common symptoms. This includes uneven shoulder height, uneven hips or eyes, protrusion of one or both shoulders, and one leg that is longer than the other. Back pain might also be present.

What activities should you avoid if you have scoliosis?

It depends on the type of scoliosis you have, but, in general, there are several activities that can exacerbate the condition and worsen one's spinal health. Frequent texting, high-impact sports like football, and torso-extending exercises like backbends and certain yoga poses can all aggravate scoliosis. Sleeping on your stomach can also worsen the condition.

What treatment is available for scoliosis?

Many adult patients have significant success with chiropractic care. While there is no cure for scoliosis, regular appointments with a chiropractor can reduce pain, increase mobility and range of motion in the spine, and better one's form and posture. Chiropractic adjustments will not only improve overall spinal health, but they are a safe and effective way to raise comfort levels and strengthen the spine.

A diagnosis of scoliosis may require some lifestyle changes and ongoing care, but it’s a condition that can be managed. To explore chiropractic care as a scoliosis and spinal health treatment, contact Ark-La-Tex Health Center. They provide a full range of chiropractic services to residents throughout the Texarkana, AR, area. Schedule an appointment today by calling (870) 773-7246, or visit their website for more information on their offerings. For regular updates and more spinal health tips, like them on Facebook.