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April 19, 2001 -- Scoliosis is a side-to-side curvature
of the spine that, if left undiagnosed, may result in extensive damage.
While some spinal curves affect only a person's appearance, progressive
scoliosis can affect the function of all organs within the rib cage and
impact people's ability to sit, stand and walk.
Health-care professionals know that scoliosis afflicts more females than
males. And in females, it is most commonly found in teenage girls. But
it has been quite difficult to pinpoint the exact cause of the condition.
While studies indicate that heredity and injury play some role, a 1985
study reported that approximately 90% of all reported cases have no known
cause.
Because of this, more and more credibility and importance have been placed
on early detection. US studies in the past 20 years have shown that in
cases where treatment is required, only about 1.5 per 1,000 children will
develop progressive curve. It's therefore important to catch the condition
early and get appropriate care.
School-age screenings are essential
If you suspect your child has scoliosis, do not
delay seeking professional attention. Here are some things to look for:
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An uneven hemline
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One shoulder higher than the other
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One shoe that gets more wear than the other.
While some signs of scoliosis may be apparent,
however, the condition usually starts out painlessly, slowly and subtly,
making early detection difficult. To be safe, it's best to have a health-care
professional screen children between the ages of five and 18, as scoliosis
does the most damage during a child's growth years. Having screenings
regularly is also important, as the progression of scoliosis is highly
unpredictable.
Once scoliosis progresses into adulthood, people may experience increased
back pain and stiffness, as well as a more distinct curve. But while the
condition can't be prevented, its progression may be arrested through
early detection and conservative chiropractic care.
Caring for the condition
Scoliosis in its early stages responds well to
conservative treatment, such as skilled chiropractic adjustment. By virtue
of their training, chiropractic physicians are highly qualified to detect
misalignments or abnormalities of the spine. Over time, chiropractic adjustments,
which help realign the spine, may help stop the progression of scoliosis.
Bracing is another conservative method used by physicians where the scoliosis
is progressive. A brace is worn during a child's growth period and is
removed after skeletal maturity. Bracing is meant to slow down the progression,
not stop or reverse the curvature. Only manipulation to the structure
can reverse the curve.
In cases of advanced scoliosis, surgery is the last resort. It is used
when conservative methods are unsuccessful and the curve is aggressive
enough to threaten the body's ability to function normally.
Dr. Michele Krohn is a chiropractor in Dublin, Ohio.
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