Scoliosis is an abnormal, three dimensional curvature of the spine that may be present in more than one area of the spine. As a Florence Ky chiropractor, questions regarding scoliosis are inevitable. Do you have an elevated shoulder? Does your pelvis feel twisted? You may have an abnormal curvature of the spine. A simple, non invasive examination will determine if further testing is warranted. Positive findings during an Adam’s forward bending test is an indicator that scoliosis is present. However, a positive finding may represent a curvature that is not large enough to be considered scoliosis.
The above diagram diagram represents a measuring method known as “Cobb’s Angle”. This angle is formed by drawing two perpendicular lines from two parallel lines (see diagram above). A resultant angle greater than 20 degrees is large enough to be considered scoliosis. Most chiropractors are familiar with this measuring method and can determine if your curvature would be considered scoliosis.
Typical Goals of treatment of a scoliotic curve may include the following:
- Reduce Cobb angle
- Reduce pain levels.
- Increase range of motion.
- Increase lung performance.
Depending on the severity of the scoliosis, co management with other healthcare professionals may be necessary. For example, if reduction of a large Cobb angle is not obtainable via chiropractic spinals manipulation alone, co managing with a physical therapy may help. In more extreme cases, bracing and/or surgery may be necessary. The following links offer some excellent stretches and exercises for someone with scoliosis. Consult your healthcare provider before beginning an exercise plan to determine if the program is safe for someone with scoliosis. You will also need to know which side your spine curves to before attempting these exercises:
For a curvature in the opposite direction:
Florence Ky Chiropractor, Brandon Meade, DC
Again, you will need to determine the side of your curvature before beginning either of these exercises. A plain film x ray of the thoracic and/or lumbar spine will usually suffice. Contact Brandon Meade, DC, a Florence Ky chiropractor, if you have questions regarding chiropractic care and scoliosis.