How to Treat Scoliosis

The human spine is made to be able to move and help our bodies rotate. There are natural curves in the spine that are necessary. However, there is a condition, scoliosis, where the curvatures of the spine are abnormal and can cause deformities.

In many cases, children are affected more as scoliosis tends to occur while their bodies are forming and growing. If the condition is treated early, the damage can be limited, but left untreated can cause more damaging health problems to the lungs, heart and pelvic area.

We will now discuss some signs that can help people, especially parents of young children, to spot any signs of scoliosis of the spine:

•In babies, scoliosis can be indicated by a bulging of the chest

•Babies with scoliosis tend to always lie on one side

•People with scoliosis will lean towards a specific side

•Protrusion of the hip

•Shoulder heights are different

•Ribs are not equal heights

•The head is not straight up from the pelvis, trace the spine and it should normally be a straight line from the head to the pelvis.

•A protrusion of 1 shoulder blade in relation to the other.

•Measuring the leg lengths can give you an idea too, different leg lengths can be a sign of scoliosis

How to treat scoliosis

The range of treatments for scoliosis is limited and there is no cure from the disease. In fact, medicinal studies have yet to prove where the condition comes from. Here are the most common treatments for scoliosis.

1. Braces:

Braces for the spine tend to be the first form of treatment for scoliosis that is noticed in children. Although most children do not like the braces, they can be very helpful.

By helping to realign the spine, the braces can be used until the child stops growing. This will help to reduce the condition in the long term.

There are two different types of spine braces that can be used to combat scoliosis. The under arm brace is the most common type of spine brace used. It is molded to fit the body and is not very uncomfortable.

The 2nd type of spine brace is the Milwaukee brace. A full-torso brace that contains flat bars across the chest and back to support the spine shape.

2. Surgical treatment for Scoliosis:

In the most severe cases of scoliosis, surgery may be required. This usually is in the form of spinal fusion surgery, where artificial bone is inserted between the vertebrae to help stability. The bones then fuse together, limiting movement but also preventing further damage to the spine.