Can You Prevent Scoliosis in Children?

Scoliosis is a curvature of the spine. This curve is best described as an S or C shape and can typically be seen as a hump near the rib cage. There are also varying degrees of scoliosis based on the degree of the curve. If it is less than 20 degrees, it is considered mild scoliosis. A curvature that measures greater than 60 degrees is a serious case. The course of treatment naturally depends on the severity of the condition.

Children on the cusps of adolescence are routinely tested for the condition in school through what is commonly known as the Adams Forward Bending Test. This test consists of bending at the waist while a trained professional observes the spine as the child bends. There are also signs of scoliosis that can be noticed aside from observing the Adams Forward Bending Test. Signs of scoliosis include and an observation of one shoulder being noticeably raised as compared to the other. The scapula on one side may also be more prominent or raised. One hip may appear raised and the head may not appear centered over the pelvis. All of these or a combination of them may lead to a diagnosis of scoliosis.

Severe or extreme cases of scoliosis may have to be treated with surgery such as spinal fusion and instrumentation. This involves using rods and hooks to align the spine. These kinds of cases can be debilitating and painful and luckily, are rare. For cases that are not that severe, there is a way to alleviate the back problems and give the child back pain relief. Before a brace is given as a remedy or even the suggestion of surgery is out there, seeing a chiropractor first can help.

A chiropractor who specializes in child spinal care will approach scoliosis on several levels. There are special exercises, electric stimulation and nutritional changes a chiropractor can assist with. A chiropractor will help determine the severity of the condition through the Adams Forward Bending Test, measuring leg length for evenness, and different motion tests.

There are studies that have proven the effectiveness of the chiropractic method to treat mild cases in children ranging in age from 9 to 15. The Foundation for Chiropractic Education and Research has been able to show results that suggest a reduction in the degree of curvature when chiropractic techniques are applied to the patient over time. For best results, chiropractic adjustments several times a week for a period of roughly a year have led to the decrease in the condition. Chiropractors approach scoliosis by typically doing a full spine adjustment, heel lifts, and some postural counseling.

Scoliosis can be incredibly uncomfortable for a growing child and will not go away on its own or just by "sitting up straight". It is important to understand that left untreated; it really can pose an entire host of alignment problems into adulthood. For cases that are shown to be mild in terms of the degree of curvature, chiropractic care can help keep the spine and central nervous system running smoothly and allow for the best possible outcome for those afflicted with scoliosis.