Scoliosis is the medical name for an abnormal lateral (side-to-side) curvature of the spine, which your Grand Rapids chiropractor is highly experienced in treating. Because an individual who has scoliosis commonly appears to be leaning to one side, if you are uninformed about the might assume, instead, that the person simply has poor posture.
But, there are several ways that you can see the difference between poor posture and scoliosis even before you see your Grand Rapids chiropractor. First of all, you would likely notice that one shoulder is higher than the other in a standing position, and that the scapula (shoulder blade) is raised or more prominent. You might notice a greater space between the arm and the body on one side if the person’s arms were dangling loosely at his or her sides. Also, one hip might raised or more conspicuous than the other. And finally, the head will not appear to be in plumb with the pelvis.
Scoliosis symptoms are often mild; even so, if the curve and rib rotation are dramatic enough, both pulmonary and cardiac functions can be hindered. The cause of scoliosis in 85 percent of cases is unknown. This type of scoliosis (Idiopathic) is thought to be genetic, or to minimally have a genetic component because it tends to run in families.
Idiopathic Scoliosis commonly develops during adolescence when the body is completing its concluding major growth spurt. Most frequently girls develop this type of scoliosis. A scoliotic curve, if found, should be monitored for any progression. Your Grand Rapids chiropractor can provide periodic examinations and, if necessary, will suggest standing x-rays.
Since most scoliotic curvatures are mild to moderate, a brace is unnecessary. In these cases, regular chiropractic care is extremely helpful in both in decreasing and adjusting any compensatory musculoskeletal conditions that might happen.
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