June 2016 is Scoliosis Awareness Month.
Scoliosis is a term used to describe a curvature of the spine, where the spine bends sideways and rotates along its vertical axis. It is the most common spinal deformity in the western world. Scoliosis is typically classified as either Congenital (caused by anomalies present at birth) or idiopathic (Cause unknown). It affects people of all races, ages and socioeconomic classes and diagnosed equally amongst males and females, although females are 8 times more likely to require intervention than males. Typically Scoliosis curves start developing during puberty, between the ages of 10 and 15, as the body goes through a phase of rapid growth.
What many people notice as the first signs of scoliosis are typically changes in appearance, such as uneven musculature on one side of the back, a rib or shoulder blade prominence on one side due to ribcage rotation or uneven hips, arms or leg lengths. The stage when a scoliosis is identified plays a large role in determining the approach to it, particularly in the case of adolescent females. The curves should be monitored to track their progression. When curves progress beyond a certain point or increase dramatically over a short span of time an orthopaedic consult is advised.
Individuals with a scoliosis will often experience neck, shoulders and back pain as well as decreased mobility in certain directions. Most of the time people with a scoliosis can have great results with a more conservative approach to care rather than surgery.
At Total Balance Chiropractic we regularly see patients with scoliosis and they often achieve great results in managing the condition conservatively. As can be seen in the example here, by improving posture and addressing the overall structure of the body utilising ABC™ we can help to minimise the additional strain put on the spine by these abnormal curvatures. The result is that our scoliotic patients often report significant improvements in their pain levels, better movement, sleep, breathing and overall quality of life!
To find out more please call our team on (02) 49692886. To book an appointment click here.
