Scoliosis

Teenager girls

Scoliosis is an abnormal sideways curvature of the spine. It begins as a postural distortion and may become a permanent deformity. Allowed to advance, it may interfere with the lungs, heart and many other vital organs.

Three Causes
  1. Congenital  genetic predisposition
  2. Habitual  behavioral routines
  3. Idiopathic  unknown cause

Regardless of cause, early detection can be helpful.

Obvious Clues

An alert parent may notice that a high shoulder or low hip make clothing fit poorly. Or uneven shoe wear offers a clue. Back and leg pains may develop but are often dismissed as "growing pains."

Wait and See?

Allowed to run its course, scoliosis may often worsen. Severe cases may involve unsightly bracing or surgery that attaches steel rods, forcing the spine to straighten.

scales used for spinal health test
Natural Approach

A schedule of specific chiropractic adjustments may help improve the function and structure of the spine. As muscles are retrained and strengthened, posture may improve. Bring your child in so we can discuss your concerns and explore the possibilities.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Isn’t a certain amount of sideways curvature normal?
Any type of sideways curvature is abnormal. From the back, the spine should appear straight. When scoliosis is present, there are usually two curves. A primary curve in one direction and a compensatory curve in the opposite direction.
Isn’t scoliosis caused by a lack of calcium?
No. However, there are a growing number of people who believe uncorrected spinal damage from the birth process may be involved. Some theorize that “walkers” may prematurely interrupt the crawling stage so essential for proper spinal development.
Do heavy back-packs cause scoliosis?
Not necessarily, however this is a growing concern. Make sure your son or daughter use both shoulder straps on their back-packs so the weight is evenly distributed. Weigh their bag. Make sure it doesn’t exceed 10% -15% of their body weight.

Subscribe to our Myrtle Beach chiropractic newsletter Free Newsletter

Receive free professional health tips on topics that interest you.
 
 
Select Topics:
Backaches & Sciatica
Headaches & Neck Pain
Wellness Topics
Diet & Nutrition
Exercise & Fitness
Women's Health Issues
Children's Health Issues
Stress Management

Dr. Tim Asks some important questions of interest to Myrtle Beach residents - Chiropractor Myrtle Beach Dr. Tim Asks...

What's the difference between a "good" drug and a "bad" drug?
As a chiropractor, I see the use of many drugs (legal or illegal) as merely symptom treating. Worse, virtually every drug produces unwanted effects. The effects of chiropractic are largely positive effects. If you're a Myrtle Beach parent, consider carefully before giving your child a cough medication, cold remedy or pain reliever so this sort of question doesn't arise in the first place.
Which organs are extra?
You don't have any spare parts. Sure, we can survive without our tonsils, appendix, gall bladder and several other tissues, but each serves a purpose. We chiropractors recognize this. So the chiropractic approach I use in Myrtle Beach is to reduce nerve interferences to the control and regulation of every tissue, organ and system of your body.