Scoliosis is the medical name for an abnormal lateral (side-to-side) curvature of the spine, which your Grand Rapids chiropractor is highly experienced in treating. If you aren’t familiar with the presentation of scoliosis, you might inadvertently confuse it with poor posture because frequently someone who has scoliosis gives the appearance of leaning to one side.
Even before going to see your chiropractor in Grand Rapids, there are quite a few ways that you’ll be able to tell the difference between poor posture and scoliosis. First of all, you would be able to see that one shoulder is higher than the other in a standing position, and that the scapula (shoulder blade) is raised or more prominent. You would likely see a greater space between the arm and the body on one side if the person’s arms were dangling loosely at his or her sides. Additionally, one hip may be raised or more prominent than the other. And one more clue might be that the head will not be in plumb with the pelvis.
Scoliosis symptoms in many cases are mild; but, if the curve and rib rotation are acute enough, both pulmonary and cardiac functions can be compromised. The cause of scoliosis in 85 percent of cases is unknown. This type of scoliosis (Idiopathic) is thought to be genetic, or to minimally have a genetic component because it tends to run in families.
Idiopathic Scoliosis most often develops during adolescence when the body is completing its concluding major growth spurt. This type of scoliosis is most frequently found in girls. A scoliotic curve, if found, should be monitored for any progression. Your chiropractor in Grand Rapids will not only provide periodic examinations, but will suggest standing x-rays if needed.
As mentioned above, most (nearly 90 percent) of scoliotic curvatures are mild to moderate, and make a brace unnecessary. Therefore, regular chiropractic care, in these cases, is beneficial in both in decreasing and adjusting any compensatory musculoskeletal conditions that can take place.