Scoliosis is a condition in which a person has an abnormal sideways curvature in their spine. The curve progresses during the rapid pre-puberty growth phase, so it most commonly affects children between the ages of 10 and 18. It affects around 3% to 4% of adolescents and is equally prevalent in girls and boys. Here are the signs that your child may have scoliosis and how you can work with a chiropractic professional to address it.

What You Should Know About Scoliosis

Potential Causes

Most scoliosis cases are mild but may become more severe as the child grows. Serious cases, with a curvature of more than 60 degrees, can be debilitating because it affects the ability to move and closes in on the space that lungs need to function properly.

There are three forms: idiopathic, congenital or neuromuscular. Idiopathic scoliosis is the most common; this is the diagnostic term used to describe cases that are not congenital or neuromuscular. Doctors are unsure what causes this.

Congenital scoliosis is due to a hereditary factor since the condition can run in families. This is the result of a malformation of one or more of the vertebrae in the spine. These abnormalities are present at birth and become more prevalent as the child grows.

Neuromuscular scoliosis is the result of neurological or muscular diseases. Common diseases that have been connected include spina bifida, cerebral palsy, muscular dystrophy, and spinal cord injury or infection.

Symptoms & Treatment

If you notice one or more of the following symptoms of scoliosis, take your child in to see a chiropractic professional. Common signs include one or both shoulder blades sticking out, one or both hips being unusually high, an uneven waist, rib cages at different heights, an entire body that leans to the side, or a head that isn’t centered above the pelvis. Back pain is also common.

Mild cases often only require monitoring to ensure that the curvature doesn’t worsen as they grow. Moderate cases may require a plastic brace contoured to fit the body, which sits discreetly underneath clothing. Your child should wear it all the time to prevent the curve from getting worse. More severe cases may require surgery, such as spinal fusion, which connects vertebrae so they can’t move.

The chiropractors at Forest Park Chiropractic & Acupuncture diagnose and treat scoliosis in Cincinnati, OH. This wellness chiropractic clinic creates customized treatment plans and uses natural and effective methods to address spinal issues in patients of all ages. Learn more online, and call (513) 742-0880 to schedule an appointment.