Scoliosis is a condition of the spine that affects millions of people worldwide. When a person has scoliosis the spine deviates and curves unnaturally, which can cause many unpleasant side effects, symptoms and, in some cases, life changing disabilities.

The normal spine is curved, but only as seen from the side. These curves, called the lordotic (Neck and low back) and kyphotic (mid back) are incredibly important to human health and wellness. Seen from the front, however, the spine is relatively straight with no curves at all. It is when the spine is curved here that the spine is said to have scoliosis.

image of patient with scoliosis
Scoliosis in many cases is mistakenly thought to be poor posture, but it should not be confused with something that can easily be cured simply by sitting up straight. Scoliosis is much more complex and can cause what most refer to as a ‘rib-hump’ in the mid back (thoracic spine) in severe cases.

How scoliosis affects the body

Technically a person has scoliosis when their spine is curved 16 degrees or more. This abnormal curvature slowly damages and distorts the spine, putting pressure on the nerves while it injures the discs. In time the spine will degenerate severely, which can cause severe pain as well as a range of other health problems.

For example, if there is a scoliosis of more than 70 degrees, the vertebrae and ribs will be severely rotated and misaligned. This can cause problems with the lungs and affect the heart. Left untreated,  scoliosis can sometimes cause severe problems later in life.

Scoliosis tends to affect more girls than boys. Some people are born with the condition, but most people start seeing the physical changes during their early teen years. It is in these first few years that our Garland Chiropractor and chiropractic adjustments can provide the most help to change the spine and prevent the scoliosis from becoming more complex.

Early detection is key

Therefore, detecting scoliosis early is extremely important.

Normally detection is not difficult. There will be certain noticeable indicators. For example, there will be one shoulder that’s higher, or a distinct leaning towards one side.

Sometimes the person may just have intermittent ‘back pain’ or other pain symptoms without a noticeable outward appearance change. In this case a trip to our garland chiropractor for a evaluation and an x-ray might be necessary to diagnose the underlying scoliosis.

Most scoliosis is idiopathic scoliosis, meaning that there is no known reason or cause for the malady. Thankfully, in 90% of all cases the scoliosis is mild and can be treated with chiropractic care and proper posture.

However scoliosis has no simple or complete solution.

Most people will require ongoing treatment for their condition. Here again, chiropractic care is one of the best ways to ensure that the scoliosis remains stable and doesn’t worsen. Dr. James Mixon is specially trained to take care of the spine and scoliosis.

Chiropractic treatment can help scoliosis

Chiropractic adjustments can keep the spine flexible, the discs pliable and the muscles and tendons loose and supple. Our Garland chiropractic office also offers exercise rehab which will help you strengthen muscles and increase range of motion and flexibility. He will also recommend stretches that can be performed at home between adjustments. Dr. James Mixon can also offer a tens unit to help with pain, a back brace for additional support if required and nutritional advice. Most experts agree that a multi-faceted approach to treating scoliosis is the best approach, and that is exactly what chiropractic can offer.

If you or someone you love is suffering from scoliosis the best advice you can get is that of your Garland chiropractor. A chiropractor is well-versed in the latest treatment options available.

Scoliosis may not be curable, but a person with scoliosis can receive help through chiropractic care. In addition, chiropractic is all-natural,  will help the rest of the body stay healthy and will keep the spine flexible.

Do yourself a favor and give your Garland chiropractor a call.