Core Family Chiropractic provides non-invasive scoliosis treatment to the communities of Denver, Wheat Ridge, Lakewood and Arvada. At our chiropractic clinic, we have a multitude of techniques that can specifically address the condition or pain complaint entering the office. According to the American Chiropractic Association, scoliosis affects between 5 to 7 million people in the United States. Many times minor scoliosis is not visible to the untrained eye. As the level of degree increases, it becomes more noticeable and can cause many different health problems. It is important to be checked out by a doctor of chiropractic if it is suspected you or your children have scoliosis so the curvature does not worsen.
What is Scoliosis?
Scoliosis is a curvature in the spinal column. This is primarily a lateral curve from side to side that can occur in different regions of the spine. In some cases, there is anterior (lordosis) or posterior (kyphosis) curves and rotational aspects to the lateral scoliosis. Monitoring and treatment of scoliosis is important because progression of scoliosis can produce more severe health consequences.
Chiropractic Research on Outcomes for Adult Scoliosis
Mark Morningstar published a research article in the Journal of Chiropractic Medicine in 2011 studying outcomes for adult scoliosis patients receiving chiropractic rehabilitation and followed up with these patients 24 months later. 28 patients were included in the study and received the same chiropractic rehabilitation treatment. The conclusion abstract is below:
This report is among the first to demonstrate sustained radiographic, self-rated, and physiologic benefits after treatment ceased. After completion of a multimodal chiropractic rehabilitation treatment, a retrospective cohort of 28 adult scoliosis patients reported improvements in pain, Cobb angle, and disability immediately following the conclusion of treatment and 24 months later. - J Chiropr Med. Sep 2011; 10(3): 179–184.
What Causes Scoliosis?
- Idiopathic Scoliosis
- This term means the cause is unknown. This is the most common type of scoliosis and it does not mean the cause is completely unknown. It is generally accepted that it is due to hereditary and familial reasons and growth as a child. This is why it is important for children to be checked because scoliosis is more prevalent in children and can progress more quickly due to bone growth not being mature.
- Degenerative Scoliosis
- This type can be due to traumatic injuries such as accidents or falls, back surgery, osteoporosis, or fractures. Certain illnesses can produce degenerative scoliosis.
- Neuromuscular Scoliosis
- Including muscular dystrophy or cerebral palsy.
- Congenital Scoliosis
- Congenital scoliosis is when there are birth defects that affect the vertebral segments of the spine.
Treatment Options
Treatment options vary widely from patient to patient depending on a variety of different factors. A thorough exam and any additional studies will be performed first to evaluate the scoliosis and determine what treatment is best suitable for that patient. A specific treatment plan will be produced, but can include monitoring, chiropractic adjustments, at home exercises or a physical therapy program, among other treatment options we have in our chiropractic clinic. In cases where the scoliosis has progressed to a higher degree angle, more invasive options may be needed such as bracing or surgery due to the health concerns. It is important to be checked by a doctor of chiropractic to determine how advanced the curvature is and your options moving forward.
Our chiropractor, Dr. Todd Williams, will perform a comprehensive exam to evaluate the spine and distinguish the cause of the scoliosis and get the patient the appropriate care needed.