If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with scoliosis, you know that it can be a painful and debilitating condition. Depending on the type diagnosed, scoliosis pain may affect the neck, upper and lower back, hips and legs. For those who suffer from scoliosis, chiropractic care can help in scoliosis treatment as well as in scoliosis pain management.
What is Scoliosis?
Scoliosis is the medical condition where a person’s spine is curved, laterally, on either or both sides and effects 7 million people in the U.S. Scoliosis is more prevalent in women than in men and is also more likely to progress in females. The most commonly known type of scoliosis is idiopathic and develops from unknown reasons. Degenerative scoliosis is prevalent in older people who’s spine joints are degenerating. Curves in the spine, and the magnitude of the curve (the Cobb Angle), dictate diagnosis and scoliosis treatment. Cobb angles larger than 10 degrees indicate scoliosis and curves that measure 25 to 50 degrees are considered large enough to require treatment. Curves greater than 50 degrees likely require surgery to restore posture.
Persistent Scoliosis Pain
Only in rare circumstances does idiopathic scoliosis cause pain. However, people with degenerative scoliosis will often complain of back and leg pain. This stems from arthritis in the back and possible compression of the nerve roots that travel down to the legs. If scoliosis becomes severe and is not treated, it can cause problems later in life. Persistent back pain from scoliosis could develop into breathing problems or heart problems if the condition contributes to severe chest cavity deformities.
Chiropractic Scoliosis Treatment
It is widely stated that chiropractic care is effective in alleviating the pain and discomfort associated with adult scoliosis. Many case studies suggest that chiropractic care is effective in managing scoliosis curves. One such case study analyzed the long-term results of chiropractic care on 28 scoliosis patients. Of the 28 patients, 22 recorded Cobb angle reductions and all patients reported lowered pain and improved dexterity at the 6 and 24 month milestones. Chiropractic care for scoliosis has historically been comprised of spinal adjustments, exercise and postural counseling. Orthotics to manipulate posture and electrical stimulation have recently come into the chiropractic toolbox as well.
Why Harper Wellness Center
Situated in the heart of Houston’s Galleria area, Harper Wellness Center is ready to provide scoliosis treatment and scoliosis-related pain management. With over 25 years of experience treating neuro-musculoskeletal problems, Dr. Dana Harper and his staff utilize the latest chiropractic techniques and cutting-edge diagnosis and treatment technologies. Additionally, the Harper Wellness Center has an expansive physical rehab facility and is able to provide patients with custom made orthotics.