Scoliosis and Chiropractic Care
If your child has been diagnosed with scoliosis, you may be worried about what this means for their health and well-being. Scoliosis is a condition that affects the shape of the spine, causing it to curve sideways instead of being straight. Scoliosis can affect anyone, but it is more common in children and adolescents, especially girls. It can also run in families, so if you or someone else in your family has scoliosis, your child may be more likely to have it too. Some signs of scoliosis include having one shoulder or hip higher than the other, having an uneven waistline, having a prominent shoulder blade, and having back pain or breathing problems in severe cases.
Scoliosis can have different causes, such as genetic factors, injuries, infections, or neuromuscular disorders. However, in most cases, the cause of scoliosis is unknown. This is called idiopathic scoliosis, and it accounts for about 80% of all cases. Idiopathic scoliosis can be classified into three types based on the age of onset: infantile (before age 3), juvenile (between age 3 and 10), and adolescent (between age 10 and 18). Adolescent idiopathic scoliosis is the most common type and usually develops during the growth spurt before puberty.
How Can Chiropractic Care Help your Child with Scoliosis
The treatment of scoliosis depends on several factors, such as the degree of the curve, the location of the curve, the age and maturity of the child, and the potential for progression. The main goals of treatment are to prevent the curve from getting worse, to reduce pain and discomfort, and to improve function and quality of life.
The conventional medical treatments for scoliosis include observation, bracing, and surgery. Observation is recommended for mild curves (less than 25 degrees) that are not likely to progress. Bracing is recommended for moderate curves (between 25 and 45 degrees) that are still growing and have a high risk of progression. Surgery is recommended for severe curves (more than 45 degrees) that cause significant deformity, pain, or impairment of vital organs.
However, these treatments are not without drawbacks. Observation may not address the underlying causes of scoliosis or prevent future complications. Bracing may be uncomfortable, inconvenient, or embarrassing for some children and may not prevent further curvature or improve cosmetic appearance. Surgery may involve serious risks, such as infection, bleeding, nerve damage, or spinal fusion failure.
That’s why many parents choose chiropractic care as an alternative or complementary treatment for their children with scoliosis. Chiropractic care is a natural, safe, and effective way to correct spinal misalignments and restore normal function of the nervous system. Chiropractors use gentle spinal adjustments to improve the alignment and mobility of the spine and reduce pressure on the nerves. Chiropractic care can also help with pain relief, muscle relaxation, posture improvement, and overall wellness.
Chiropractic care can benefit children with scoliosis in several ways:
- It can help reduce the progression of the curve by correcting spinal subluxations (misalignments) that may contribute to scoliosis development or worsening.
- It can help relieve pain and discomfort by reducing inflammation, muscle spasm, and nerve irritation that may result from scoliosis.
- It can help improve function and quality of life by enhancing spinal flexibility, range of motion, balance, coordination, and strength.
- It can help prevent complications and long-term effects of scoliosis by improving blood circulation, immune system function, organ health, and mental well-being.
What Can You Expect from Chiropractic Care for your Child with Scoliosis?
If you decide to seek chiropractic care for your child with scoliosis, here is what you can expect:
- First, your chiropractor will conduct a thorough examination of your child’s spine and nervous system. This may include a physical exam, a posture analysis, a spinal X-ray or other imaging tests, and a scoliosis screening test.
- Next, your chiropractor will explain the findings of the examination and discuss the diagnosis and prognosis of your child’s condition. Your chiropractor will also explain how chiropractic care can help your child with scoliosis and answer any questions you may have.
- Then, your chiropractor will design a personalized treatment plan for your child based on their specific needs and goals. The treatment plan may include spinal adjustments, exercises, stretches, lifestyle modifications, nutritional supplements, or other therapies.
- Finally, your chiropractor will monitor your child’s progress and make any necessary changes to the treatment plan along the way. Your chiropractor will also work with other health care professionals involved in your child’s care to ensure optimal results.
Why Choose Radiant Life Chiropractic for your Child with Scoliosis?
At Radiant Life Chiropractic, we are committed to providing the best chiropractic care for your child with scoliosis. We use a low-force, non-invasive, conservative approach that is gentle and effective for children of all ages. We have the experience and expertise to help your child achieve optimal spinal health and wellness. We are located in Green Bay, WI and serve the surrounding communities of Howard, Suamico, De Pere, Ashwaubenon, and Bellevue. We offer flexible hours and affordable rates to suit your needs and budget.
If you are looking for a natural, safe, and effective way to help your child with scoliosis, look no further than Radiant Life Chiropractic, “The Posture Doc”. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and find out how we can help your child live a radiant life!
