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Scoliosis is a condition that involves an abnormal curvature of the spine. It is caused by a number of things, but the solutions for this problem aren’t as many. It is often treated with bracing or surgery.
But what about alternative treatments like chiropractic care: can these methods help? Chiropractic care is one of the most popular treatments out there that is not considered conventional. It also deals with musculoskeletal problems, with a particular focus on the spine.
On paper, it certainly sounds like chiropractors should be able to treat those with scoliosis, but that’s really not the case. In fact, it’s a little more complex than that. Today we will be talking about the relationship between chiropractic care, spinal adjustments, and scoliosis.
What are the Causes of Scoliosis?
Patients and skeptics alike would love to know about how this type of treatment works for a serious condition such as scoliosis. But before we dive right in, let’s have an overview of the problem itself: what are the causes of scoliosis?
There are a few different types of scoliosis seen in adults, namely idiopathic, congenital, paralytic, and myopathic.
If there is no clear cause for the spinal curve, then it is idiopathic. Most cases of scoliosis are of this type. On the other hand, a congenital curve is a bit more uncommon. It means that the spinal abnormality was present at birth. Congenital scoliosis is typically diagnosed in childhood.
If the curve results from a spinal cord injury, then the condition is paralytic. The muscles around the spine no longer work due to the injury. It may also cause abnormal curvatures of the spine.
A myopathic deformity is similar to paralytic in that the muscles do not work properly. It can be caused by conditions like muscular dystrophy, cerebral palsy, or polio.
There are also a few cases wherein scoliosis is only a secondary condition that is caused by other musculoskeletal problems. This includes osteoporosis, degeneration, and osteomalacia.
Can Chiropractic Treatment Cure Scoliosis?
The short answer is no it cannot. But it’s important to set the right expectations when seeking treatment for scoliosis. Scoliosis isn’t technically curable as it requires ongoing care. However, there are ways that chiropractic care can improve your condition.
Chiropractors can induce mobility into the joints. They help reduce pain in certain areas, increasing the patient’s comfort levels. Adjustments help improve form and function as well as the patient’s posture.
Through spinal adjustments, the chiropractor can even prevent further degradation of the spine.
To make it work, your chiropractor will have to assess how rigid the spine is before starting. They need to diagnose it properly in order to figure out what to do and how to help. Sometimes a chiropractor can recognize that spinal manipulation isn’t suitable for the patient after all, and will recommend other specialists.
Every patient is different, but with proper assessment and diagnosis, a chiropractor can develop a treatment plan that is right for you.
Visit your local chiropractor first and see if the treatment is right for you.
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