Scoliosis occurs when the spine curves sideways. Scoliosis in West Des Moines can occur most commonly in children and teenagers, however it can affect adults too.

Common Symptoms of Scoliosis

The vertebrae in your spine normally form a straight line from the bottom of your back to the top of your neck. If your spine curves to the side forming an “S” or “C” shape, then you have scoliosis.

Symptoms of Scoliosis vary depending on the degree of curvature and may include:

• Pain in the back, neck, shoulders, hips, or ribs
• Uneven hips, shoulders, shoulder blades, or waist
• Muscle spasms

If the spine curvature worsens, then the vertebrae may begin to press on nerves and even organs. This can cause breathing problems, heart issues and digestive issues. In more severe cases, limited mobility and physical deformity may also occur.

Scoliosis in Children

For children, scoliosis can present itself during growth spurts in the pre-teen and teenage years. Most children who develop scoliosis only have mild curvatures and may never actually need treatment.

The cause of scoliosis isn’t always possible to determine. It may be more likely to occur after an injury that affects the spine, if your child has muscular dystrophy or cerebral palsy.

This condition is most often detected during annual wellness exams or scoliosis screenings at school.

Pediatricians and doctors normally do not recommend treatment unless the curve progresses beyond 30 degrees. One or more of these treatments may be needed if the curvature continues to progress:

• Physical Therapy: Physical therapy exercises strengthen the muscles that support the back and improve flexibility.
• A Brace: Wearing a back brace while your child is still growing can stop the curvature from growing worse in some cases. Braces are worn under clothing for up to 23 hours per day, depending on the type.

Scoliosis in Adults

Childhood scoliosis can continue to impact you during adulthood. As you grow older, you might even experience a worsening of your curvature, which can trigger back pain, stiffness and muscle cramps. Another common issue is leg numbness as nerves can become pinched.

Adults can develop scoliosis for the first time if the discs that cushion your spine begin to break down or you develop arthritis or spinal stenosis.

Spinal stenosis occurs due to the narrowing of the spinal canal that protects your spinal cord.

Some treatment options include chiropractic, physical therapy, and short-term use of braces.

How Chiropractic Treatment Can Help Treat Scoliosis

Chiropractic treatments can help reduce scoliosis-related pain in both children and adults. When vertebrae become misaligned ,they can press on nerves causing pain. Muscle tension and spasms may also occur if your spine isn’t properly aligned.

Neurologically-based chiropractic treatments improve spinal alignment and may also decrease inflammation, improve nerve function, and increase flexibility and range of motion.

Chiropractic treatment offers a simple, natural way to help you manage your scoliosis symptoms.

Vero Health Center :: Best Local Chiropractor, Des Moines and Central Iowa

At Vero Health Center, we focus on neurologically-based chiropractic care. We administer the best and most specific type of chiropractic care, addressing the master control system of the body. Utilizing state-of-the-art technology to pinpoint and locate the root cause of your health concerns. The next step for you and your family is to schedule a comprehensive evaluation with our office, so we can better understand your unique needs. Click here or call (515) 422-9552 to book your no obligation appointment TODAY!