What is Scoliosis?
Scoliosis in layman’s terms is the abnormal sideways curvature or rotation of the spine. Any curve, lateral or rotational greater than 10 degrees is considered Scoliosis. As the curve progresses to 20 degrees or beyond, there is an increased chance that the person or an observer, such as a parent or teacher, might notice abnormalities such as clothes hanging unevenly or the body tilting to one side. For The anatomy of the spine has “normal” curves in different regions to allow for proper movement mechanics and the absorption of force, however once those curves become excessive and/or create pain in additional areas it becomes an anatomical concern.
For reference, the neck region of the spine has a natural inward “C” shaped curve that holds the head up. With the natural curve of the neck the head feels like 10-12 pound, however with a 2 inch forward shift the head could feel as though it weighs up to 30 pounds. In addition to the neck region, scoliosis can be found in the midback(thoracic) and low back (lumbar) regions as well. In the midback one would normally see something called “kyphosis” which is a rounded back. Think of the humpback of Notre Dame. Ok not THAT exaggerated!
When is Scoliosis Diagnosed?
Scoliosis can be diagnosed at all ages, depending on the type. 80% of all cases of “spontaneous” scoliosis are diagnosed between the ages of 10-18 years old as the body goes through many structural changes and new movement patterns. Some common signs and symptoms of scoliosis are:
- Clothes fit awkwardly or hang unevenly.
- Sideways curvature observed while in bathing suit or changing
- Pain on one side
- Muscle Imbalances and spasms
- Reduced Range of Motion
- Obvious Deformity
Although scoliosis is diagnosed in the adolescent years, it’s very rare that those who are diagnosed ever suffer from severe effects. Those who are closer to the 20 degree or above curvatures can be referred to physical therapy to help correct the muscle imbalances, increase range of motion and mobility and re-train movements to create more symmetry throughout the body. In addition to therapy, patients can be given a brace to assist with “slowing down” or stopping the shifting of the spine. Bracing can consist of full time or nighttime bracing, but both require the patient to wear it for extended hours at a time. When bracing doesn’t work and the curvature is steadily growing, surgery is a last resort option in which surgeons place rods along the spine or fuse the spine together to stop the deformity.
How Can Physical Therapy Help?
Here at LSTC, we do a thorough evaluation with our Physical Therapists in which they determine the location of the curvature or rotation, as well as any muscle imbalances and create a personalized plan to increase the symmetry throughout the body. In addition to that, we also look to create more functional movement patterns that are trainable and can be reproduced in daily life.
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