In our previous blog post, we discussed the different types of scoliosis. In this blog post, we will be discussing the best scoliosis treatment modalities. There are many different ways to treat scoliosis, and it can be tricky to decide which treatment option is right for you. In addition, each treatment option for scoliosis has its own advantages and disadvantages. So, let’s take a look at some of the most common scoliosis treatment options!
What Causes Scoliosis?
Scoliosis is a progressive structural condition of the spine. When left untreated or neglected, this condition tends to worsen over time.
Furthermore, scoliosis is not a permanent condition: the form of scoliosis a patient experiences at the time of diagnosis has no impact on how or where it will remain in the future. People with mild scoliosis should be aware that, if left untreated, the disease can progress at varying rates of severity.
How Fast Does Scoliosis Progress?
Unfortunately, there is no hard and fast answer to the progress of scoliosis. Every case is different. Some spinal curves don’t progress at all after a certain point, while others progress very rapidly and continue to do so until action is taken.
Here we will look at the most common form of scoliosis, which is called idiopathic scoliosis. Idiopathic scoliosis typically develops around the time the patient hits puberty, then progresses through their adolescence until their spine is fully developed (usually at the age of 16-18). It can be difficult to predict the rate of progression from one patient to the next, and a patient may stop growing before the scoliotic progression stops. Every case is different.
Scoliosis comes in many forms, which further complicates things. Although the majority of cases of scoliosis are idiopathic (without a known cause), the condition can also be triggered by many other factors, including neuromuscular diseases and the aging process. Therefore, a great deal depends on the type of scoliosis you have and how fast your condition progresses (if indeed it does at all).
How to Treat Scoliosis
Scoliosis can be treated in several ways, depending on its severity. Here are some of the most common scoliosis treatments:
- Assessment;
- Physical therapy;
- Chiropractic care;
- Surgery.
#1: Assessment
A mild case of scoliosis may not require treatment; your doctor may opt just to monitor you. Your doctor will regularly monitor the progress of your scoliosis through regular consultations. Nonetheless, if your scoliosis is progressing, you may be required to explore other treatment options.
#2: Physical Therapy
Physical therapy is a standard treatment option in mild to moderate scoliosis cases. Physical therapy aims to increase flexibility, muscle strength, and range of motion in the spine. Additionally, it can help reduce the pain associated with scoliosis, which can also be relieved by traction and massage.
Exercises and chiropractic treatment are usually used in conjunction with physical therapy for scoliosis treatment.
#3: Chiropractic Care
One of the most popular treatments for scoliosis is chiropractic care. Chiropractors use various methods for realigning the spine and improving scoliotic curves. Spinal adjustments, manual manipulations, and electrical stimulation are the most common chiropractic techniques used in treating scoliosis.
#4: Braces
In many cases, bracing is recommended to prevent scoliosis from progressing in both children and adolescents. The most common kind of brace is made of plastic, contoured to the body, and typically worn during the day and removed at night. As the brace fits under the arms around the rib cage, lower back, and hips, it is virtually invisible under clothes.
The effectiveness of a brace increases with the number of hours it is worn per day. Generally, braces do not restrict children’s activities, who will be able to participate in most activities. Children can remove their braces for sports or other physical activities if necessary.
As long as your child’s bones are still growing and they have moderate scoliosis, a brace is recommended. Braces cannot cure scoliosis, but they can prevent it from worsening.
#5: Surgery
Surgery is typically recommended only for severe cases of scoliosis. There are two main types of surgery used to treat scoliosis: spinal fusion and vertebral segmentation.
Spinal Fusion
Spinal fusion is the most common type of surgery used to treat scoliosis. It involves fusing the affected vertebrae in the spine.
During this procedure, surgeons attach the vertebrae (i.e., spine bones) together so they cannot move independently. Next, a bone or material is placed between each vertebra. While the old and new bone material fuse together, metal rods, hooks, screws, or wires typically hold that spine section straight and still.
Vertebral Segmentation
Vertebral segmentation is a less common type of surgery used to treat scoliosis. It involves separating the affected vertebrae in the spine.
It is possible to perform this operation through small incisions. An adjustment involves the placement of screws on the outside edge of the abnormal spinal curve and threading a strong, flexible cord through the screws. This process tightens the cord and straightens the spine. The spine can straighten even more as the child grows.
Why Should I See a Chiropractor for My Scoliosis Treatment?
Scoliosis is typically treated by surgery, but this is usually only performed on individuals with curves more than 50 degrees. In patients with less pronounced scoliosis, chiropractic care can be beneficial.
An individual with scoliosis can seek the help of a chiropractor to prevent the condition from getting worse and better manage symptoms. Furthermore, chiropractors provide non-invasive and drug-free treatments for scoliosis patients that restore alignment to the spine in order to promote their bodies’ natural healing process.
We’re Looking Forward to Helping You at Our Chiropractic Offices in NJ!
At the Bergen Chiropractic and Sports Rehabilitation Center, our chiropractic team, led by Dr. Gregory Doerr, follows the highest and most professional medical standards to provide superior chiropractic help. After all, our mission is to provide unparalleled patient care and services in a comfortable healing atmosphere. Contact us to learn more about our chiropractic services! Our chiropractic offices in Cliffside Park, NJ, and Hackensack, NJ, are ready to welcome you!
