Can Chiropractic Treatment By Your Chiropractor In Grand Rapids Improve Scoliosis?
August 12th, 2011 | by admin |Scoliosis is the medical term for an abnormal lateral (side-to-side) curvature of the spine, which your Grand Rapids chiropractor is very knowledgeable in diagnosing and treating. Your chiropractor wants you to be aware that there is a significant difference between bad posture and the condition termed scoliosis. Bad posture is easily correctable, while scoliosis, an abnormal lateral curvature of the spine, is significantly more difficult to affect.
But, there are one or two ways that you can see the difference between poor posture and scoliosis even before you see your Grand Rapids chiropractor. If you were to look at someone with scoliosis in a standing position, you would likely see that one shoulder is higher than the other, and that the scapula (shoulder blade) is raised or more prominent. You would likely see a larger space between the arm and the body on one side if the person’s arms were hanging freely at his or her sides. Also, one hip may be raised or more conspicuous than the other. And finally, the head will not appear to be in plumb with the pelvis.
Scoliosis is often mild in nature, but it can be quite severe. In fact, both pulmonary and cardiac functions can be hindered if the curve and rib rotation are acute enough. In all but a small percentage of scoliosis cases, the cause is not known. This type of scoliosis (Idiopathic) tends to run in families and is considered to have a genetic component.
Idiopathic Scoliosis most often develops during adolescence when the body is completing its concluding major growth spurt. Most frequently girls develop this type of scoliosis. If found, a scoliotic curve should be monitored for any progression. Your chiropractor in Grand Rapids will not only provide periodic examinations, but will suggest standing x-rays if needed.
As mentioned above, most (nearly 90 percent) of scoliotic curvatures are mild to moderate, and do not require a brace. In these cases, regular chiropractic care is beneficial in both in decreasing and adjusting any compensatory musculoskeletal conditions that can take place.
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