Scoliosis is defined as an "s" shaped curving of the spine. There are many sub-classifications that separated by factors such as degree of curvature, direction of bends, cause and severity. A Seattle chiropractor may be able to help those who suffer with this condition find some relief from the pain and extenuating issues commonly associated with it.
Though it can manifest at any age, it typically shows up during adolescence, around ages 10 to 15. It is believed to be a largely hereditary condition, affecting girls far more often than boys, but the genetic connection is not solid and there are other causes. Pediatricians suggest children be regularly checked for early signs of changes in posture and other indicators.
Degenerative curvatures are often caused by falls, traumatic injuries, spine surgeries, accidents, twisting vertebrae, osteoporosis, and fractures. Bends of a neuromuscular origin are regularly attributed to things like muscular dystrophy and cerebral palsy. Those of a congenital nature stem from birth defects that targeted spinal vertebral segments.
The majority of those afflicted have less than 20 degrees of curvature which is not easily noticed by peers. When the curve is more pronounced, they may require the support of a brace not only to slow progression but also to minimize discomfort, pain and organ damage. If the bending starts to disrupt normal functions of the heart or lungs or limits activity, it may be necessary to consider surgery.
Chiropractic care is not used as a way to reverse the curvatures, rather it serves to ease the pain and to increase flexibility, muscle strength and motion range. Manual spinal adjustments, what this practice is best known for, are effective at alleviating discomfort from vertebrae that are twisted and misaligned. Correction frees restricted nerves and allows better movement.
Physical therapy in the form of stretching and strengthening movements is a great way to make the soft tissue limber, joints flexible and muscles toned. Using a pool to exercise is very effective because the body's buoyancy in water counteracts the pull of gravity and provides resistance without impact on the bones. In some cases, electrical stimulation might also be effective.
Though it can manifest at any age, it typically shows up during adolescence, around ages 10 to 15. It is believed to be a largely hereditary condition, affecting girls far more often than boys, but the genetic connection is not solid and there are other causes. Pediatricians suggest children be regularly checked for early signs of changes in posture and other indicators.
Degenerative curvatures are often caused by falls, traumatic injuries, spine surgeries, accidents, twisting vertebrae, osteoporosis, and fractures. Bends of a neuromuscular origin are regularly attributed to things like muscular dystrophy and cerebral palsy. Those of a congenital nature stem from birth defects that targeted spinal vertebral segments.
The majority of those afflicted have less than 20 degrees of curvature which is not easily noticed by peers. When the curve is more pronounced, they may require the support of a brace not only to slow progression but also to minimize discomfort, pain and organ damage. If the bending starts to disrupt normal functions of the heart or lungs or limits activity, it may be necessary to consider surgery.
Chiropractic care is not used as a way to reverse the curvatures, rather it serves to ease the pain and to increase flexibility, muscle strength and motion range. Manual spinal adjustments, what this practice is best known for, are effective at alleviating discomfort from vertebrae that are twisted and misaligned. Correction frees restricted nerves and allows better movement.
Physical therapy in the form of stretching and strengthening movements is a great way to make the soft tissue limber, joints flexible and muscles toned. Using a pool to exercise is very effective because the body's buoyancy in water counteracts the pull of gravity and provides resistance without impact on the bones. In some cases, electrical stimulation might also be effective.
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