|
SCOLIOSIS
Scoliosis
is a sideways curve of the spine that causes
stiffness and pain. It is called an
idiopathic disease because the cause of it
is unknown. Scoliosis is more common in
females and begins in childhood. However,
merely 2 percent of the population is
afflicted. If it is detected early,
scoliosis treatment will prevent it from
worsening over time. And unlike the normal
curvature of the spine, adjusting your
posture will not correct the problem.
In some
instances, the degenerative diseases of the
spine can cause scoliosis. Osteoporosis is
when the bones soften and usually occurs in
older people. This softening can cause the
vertebrae to bend and shape the curve
causing scoliosis or kyphosis (round back).
If not treated properly, severe back pain,
deformity, and difficulty breathing can be
some symptoms that will arise.
Most exams
for scoliosis include the Adam’s Forward
Bending Test and have been adopted by many
schools, whereas they test for this in
physical education classes. It requires the
person to bend at the waist as someone views
the spinal alignment. If there is an
abnormal prominence or hump we can help you.
We will measure the length of the legs to
determine unevenness. We also perform a
range of motion test that measures the
degree to which the patient has mobility at
the waist. If needed, we will refer you to a
specialist for further scoliosis treatment.
In most
cases spinal manipulation, physiotherapy,
and electric stimulation have not shown to
be effective treatments. However, an
orthopedic brace can be used to prevent the
curve from worsening and does not limit
physical activity. Moist heat will help
alleviate some pain. In extreme cases
surgery may be required but only after the
continuous observation has shown that a
brace is not helping. Spinal fusion and
instrumentation is a surgery specialized for
people with scoliosis whereas rods and hooks
are inserted to help align your spine and
prevent further curving.
|
