scoliosis

What You Need to Know

By Deb Hoelscher, Eastland Chiropractic and Wellness Center

coliosis is a curvature of the spine that is greater than 10 degrees. It affects both girls and boys but is more frequently seen in girls. It is usually diagnosed between the ages of 8 and 18 and in most cases the cause is unknown. The majority of scoliosis cases remain mild and are not progressive. However, in growing children and adolescents, mild curvatures can worsen quite rapidly so it is very important to monitor the condition on a regular basis. The early stages of Scoliosis can be difficult to detect. In the beginning, there are rarely symptoms, and curves of less than 20 degrees are usually not detectable to the untrained eye. If there are no signs of further progression, you do not need to be concerned. However, that is a big if. If allowed to advance, scoliosis can progress to the point where it causes physical pain, emotional suffering, and can even interfere with lung and heart function. Neglect is the biggest danger with this condition.
Page 26 Healthy Cells Magazine Bloomington November 2013

A scoliosis screening performed by a school or done as part of a school physical examination is usually looking for more severe cases and can easily miss the presence of a mild curvature. A thorough examination by a chiropractor can detect scoliosis in its early stages. Then, if a curvature is discovered, a more in-depth evaluation is needed. Patients with substantial spinal curvatures often require an X-ray evaluation of the spine to determine the location and magnitude of the scoliosis, other associated curvatures and the health of organs that might be affected by the scoliosis. Depending on the scoliosis severity, X-rays may need to be repeated as often as every three to four months to as little as once every few years. There are generally three treatment options for scoliosis careful observation, bracing, and surgery. Careful observation is the most common treatment, as most mild scolioses do not progress and cause few, if any, physical problems. Bracing is

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generally reserved for children whose skeletons are still growing, and who have curves between 25 and 45 degrees. Surgery is generally used in the few cases where the curves are greater than 45 degrees and progressive and/or when the scoliosis may affect the function of the heart, lungs, or other vital organs. A chiropractor can help children who have scoliosis. The doctor of chiropractic will prescribe a care plan of chiropractic adjustments, which help improve the function and structure of the spine. Muscles strengthen, the posture improves, and the spine may regain its natural degree of curvature. If patients have back pain along with the scoliosis, spinal manipulation and exercise can be beneficial. Many people think a certain amount of sideways curvature is normal; however, any type of sideways curvature is abnormal. From the back, the spine should appear straight. Scoliosis is not caused by a lack of calcium or carrying a heavy book bag. But, there are a growing number of authorities who believe uncorrected spinal damage from the birth process or from early childhood falls and tumbles may be involved. Others suggest that using walkers to encourage early walking may be a possible culprit. As is the case with most health problems, early detection can improve the likelihood of correction. Parents should have their children checked yearly by a chiropractor. If your child goes through a big growth spurt, it is advisable to also have them checked. Signs parents can look for at home are: one pant leg longer than the other; wearing the soles of shoes down unevenly; a high shoulder or low hip, causing clothing to fit poorly; abnormal posture; or back and leg pains that are overlooked as merely growing pains. By being proactive, your child can experience better health and vitality. As the saying goes, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure! For more information, please contact Eastland Chiropractic & Wellness Center at 309-662-8418. They are a family-oriented practice with over 25 years of service located at 2406 E. Washington St. in Bloomington. Their mission is to inspire and empower individuals to actively participate in taking control of their health and wellness through natural, holistic means.

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November 2013 Bloomington Healthy Cells Magazine Page 27