Scoliosis

Scoliosis

If you are experiencing symptoms, it is advised to see an experienced Aurum Health Care Chiropractor before commencing any self-management strategies. Call us on 9899 1416 or Book Online. 

What is Scoliosis?

It is when damage occurs in the soft tissue i.e. ligaments, muscles, intervertebral discs and other tissues surrounding the cervical spine either through excessive stretch, tears or rupture.

The grade of the sprain/strain is dependent on severity of injury.

What are the symptoms caused by a Cervical (Neck) Sprain / Strain?

It is the most common spinal curvature when an individual’s spine has a sideways curve.

There are two types:

  1. Functional (non-structural) Scoliosis
  2. Structural (anatomical) Scoliosis

What are the signs and symptoms of Scoliosis?

  • Uneven shoulder heights
  • Uneven pelvic heights
  • When looking in the mirror or someone observes you from behind, your body doesn’t appear ‘straight’

You may experience one or more:

  • Neck pain
  • Mid back pain
  • Lower pain
  • Hip pain
  • Headaches
  • Being more clumsy

What causes Scoliosis?

These include:

  1. Functional (Non-structural) Scoliosis
    • Compensatory – uneven leg length, anatomical asymmetry
    • Postural – muscle imbalance, dominant side use
  2. Structural (Anatomical) Scoliosis
    • Idiopathic (Genetic)
      • Adolescence – most common type approximately 90% of cases. Usually occurs around age 10 to skeletal maturity
      • Juvenile – approximately 9% of cases. Usually occurs around age 3-10 in female more than male
      • Infantile – approximately 1% of cases. Usually occurs less than age 3 in males more than females
    • Congenital such as a defect in the structure in the vertebrae i.e. hemivertebrae or in certain syndromes
    • Neuromuscular such as brain lesions
    • Connective Tissue Disorders such as Marfan’s Syndrome, Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome
    • Trauma such as a fracture or surgery
    • Vertebral tumors
    • Metabolic causes such as rickets and osteomalacia

Who usually presents with a Scoliosis?

Research shows:

  • People with a scoliosis were found to have a higher self-reported rate of arthritis and poorer perception of their overall health, body image and ability to participate in vigorous activities
  • Scoliosis may result in varying degrees of chronic aches and pains that can be reduced though continuing conservative care such as Chiropractic, Massage, Physiotherapy and Exercise
  • Clinical outcomes are linked to the curve magnitude so early detection is key

If I have a Scoliosis, what can I do?

If you have been screened, and are aware of the severity of your scoliosis, you can try:

  • Ice/heat to the affected area of discomfort
  • Stretching
  • Exercise

TAKE CONTROL OF YOUR HEALTH

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