Scoliosis, which affects six to nine million Americans, is an abnormal curvature of the spine. It usually develops before puberty, and symptoms range from mild to severe. Treatment options include bracing, surgery, and chiropractic adjustment. If you suspect that your child has scoliosis, here are answers to four frequently asked questions about the condition.

What Should You Know About Scoliosis?

What are the symptoms?

The most common symptoms of scoliosis include:

• Unevenly positioned  shoulders, waist, hips, or legs
• Slightly off-center alignment of head and spine
• Off-balance posture
• Asymmetrical rib cage

Some types of scoliosis may cause back or neck pain. Some severe cases may hinder the function of the heart and lungs, causing shortness of breath and chest pain. Infants with the condition may have a bulge on one side of their chests and consistently lie curved to one side rather than straight. 

What causes it? 

The most common form of scoliosis, which affects adolescents, does not have a clear cause. Hereditary factors may be involved since it often runs in families. Less common forms of scoliosis may be congenital, stemming from abnormal fetal development, or syndromic, resulting from subcutaneous tissue and bone deformities or Marfan syndrome—abnormal elongation of the long bones. Neuromuscular conditions, including cerebral palsy, polio, and muscular dystrophy, may cause it, and it may also develop from injuries and osteoporosis.

Are there complications?

Most cases of scoliosis are mild and without complications. However, an asymmetrical rib cage that presses against the heart and lungs may damage these organs. Adults who had adolescent scoliosis may suffer from chronic back pain as they age. 

How is it treated?

Many cases of scoliosis are mild and don’t require treatment. A doctor will likely only monitor the curve using X-rays. Patients with moderate scoliosis may wear a brace to prevent further curvature, but patients with severe scoliosis may require surgery to straighten their spines. Many people with scoliosis find relief from chiropractic adjustments, which reduces pain and improves posture.

If you or your child has scoliosis, turn to Midway Pointe Chiropractic in Elyria, OH. For 20 years, Dr. Schaffer and his caring team have provided healing chiropractic adjustments to patients of all ages. He offers free spinal analysis, X-rays, and diagnosis for scoliosis patients. Learn more about this trusted chiropractor online, or call (440) 324-2040 to schedule a chiropractic adjustment today.