Scoliosis is also known as “curvature of the spine” and tends to occur when a child is just about to go through puberty. The cause of scoliosis is still quite unknown, although it can be caused by muscular dystrophy or cerebral palsy.
Some of the symptoms can include having an uneven waist, one hip that’s higher than the other, a shoulder blade that can be more prominent than the other, and uneven shoulders. The spine can eventually twist or rotate if the condition gets worse, but this is not always the case.
It’s important that you see a doctor if you are concerned about scoliosis. However, there are some things you can do to help you with this condition
See a Chiropractor
Seeing a chiropractor could help with this condition as the work a chiropractor undertakes can help to improve joint mobility, the quality of the spine’s movement, and its function. In addition to this, the work that a chiropractor carries out can help to reduce pain while increasing comfort.
Surgery
As scoliosis can become more severe over time, some patients are advised to undergo surgery. This is because it can help to reduce the severity of the condition. Spinal fusion, which takes place during surgery ensures that at least two of the vertebrae are connected. This prevents them from moving independently.
Bone-like material is placed between each of the vertebrae, and hooks, wires, screws, or metal rods are used. They keep the spine still and straight while the bone-like material fuses.
Unfortunately, there can be some complications associated with surgery. These can include nerve damage or pain, infection, or bleeding. Most of the time, however, the bones heal. On the rare occasion that they do not, further surgery may be required.
Braces
If a child’s bones are still growing or the scoliosis is quite moderate, they may be asked to wear a brace. This is because the brace can help to prevent the curvature from becoming worse. However, the brace will not cure the condition or even reverse it.
Most braces are constructed from plastic and they work with the body’s contours. Practically invisible under clothing, the brace sits around the lower back, rib cage, hips, and under the arms. The brace can be worn both night and day, and it tends to become more effective the more it’s worn.
Physical Therapy
Physical therapy along with exercise can help to benefit the sufferer’s well-being. Even though physical therapy along with exercise cannot stop the scoliosis from getting worse, it can improve a few areas of life. This is why it is always worth seeing a physical therapist when you can and doing exercises that can help with mobility.
Scoliosis is a major condition and it can affect quality of life. However, with the right treatment and care, it is possible for anyone with scoliosis to have a good quality of life. If you are concerned about the condition please speak to your doctor as soon as you can.