If you experience back pain regularly, it might be due to scoliosis. This spinal condition can produce mild to severe discomfort. The information below can help you learn more about how to identify and treat this back irregularity.  

What Is Scoliosis?

Scoliosis is a condition in which the bones of the spine develop a curve in the shape of a C or S. In its most severe form, the condition can cause trouble breathing when the curve closes the space in the chest cavity.

Who Can Develop Scoliosis?

Idiopathic scoliosis, which has no known cause, is the type of this spinal condition doctors see most often, and it can develop in anyone. It’s often diagnosed in children in their preteen and early teen years.

Doctors use physical exams and X-rays to diagnose and monitor the irregularity. As part of the physical exam, the doctor asks the patient to bend from the waist and let the arms hang down to see if one side of the rib cage is smaller than the other.   

What Is the Treatment?

Many people with scoliosis do not seek treatment. Some curves disappear over time, while others are structural and may be permanent.

If you have a severe curvature or one that produces chronic back pain, your doctor may recommend a back brace or back-straightening surgery for relief. Children with scoliosis may wear braces to prevent the curve from getting worse while their bones are growing.  

For almost 30 years, Cincinnati-area families have received neck and back pain relief from health care professionals at American Health Chiropractic. Based in Milford, OH, these skilled chiropractors use non-invasive diagnostic tools, such as X-rays and ultrasounds, to provide causes and treatments for chronic back pain. To learn more about how this health care team will address your needs, visit their website now or call (513) 576-6699 and schedule a free consultation.