Scoliosis

Scoliosis refers to a curvature of the spine to either side that resembles an S when viewed from behind with an x-ray. It can onset at any time of life, throughout adolescence and into adulthood. In some people it can cause no disturbance to their day to day lives for others it can pose serious health risks.

Cause

Around 65% of cases of scoliosis are idiopathic, meaning the cause is unknown. Although in many of these idiopathic cases there have been relatives that have also suffered from the condition, suggesting there may be genetic links.

Scoliosis can be brought on by other conditions that affect the nerves or muscles such as cerebral palsy and muscular dystrophy and occasionally can be a result of a birth defect.

Symptoms

Symptoms of Scoliosis include one shoulder being higher than the other, a visible curvature of the spine, uneven hips, leg or arm lengths, a prominent shoulder blade and leaning to one side.

Back pain is surprisingly not a common symptom of scoliosis but in some cases it does occur if the curvature of the spine worsens. The pain normally appears at the site of the curve and in the surrounding muscles and can be aggravated by sitting or standing for long periods of time.

Solution

Treatment can vary depending upon the severity and extent of the curve. Medical management of scoliosis ranges from pain management and exercises, to bracing, and in extreme cases, surgery and the use of spinal rods.

At Putney Chiropractic we have a role in screening and detection. If you have concern over a high shoulder or a curve in your spine, we would assess you using PostureScreen and/or x-ray technology in order to measure and assess your posture.

We would then move on to managing the pain and function of your spine. Whether you have a small or large curve, it makes sense to have your spine adjusted. Using gentle and specific techniques combined with a bespoke programme of spinal exercises one of our highly experienced team would attempt to improve the overall function and flexibility of your spine.

At Putney Chiropractic we don’t claim to reverse curves that have been there for years, but generally improve the function of your spine overall.