Scoliosis is the most common spinal deformity. It affects 2-3% of the population, or an estimated 6-9 million people in the United States. It can develop in infancy or early childhood but the most common age of onset is 10-15 years old. Doctors use something called a Cobb angle to measure a curvature of the spine in degrees. “A Cobb angle of 10 degrees is regarded as a minimum angulation to describe scoliosis.”

Scoliosis curvatures can worsen with each year that goes by. Being diagnosed at a younger age means there is a higher chance of curve progression. Girls are more likely than boys to have scoliosis curves that progress.

Scoliosis distorts posture and places a significant amount of stress on the nervous system. In addition it creates increased risk of breathing issues and heart problems oftentimes leading to premature death.

Many medical doctors monitor scoliosis through appointments every 4-6 months to check curve progression. As the scoliosis worsens the medical approach for treatment is usually an upper body brace. If this does not stop the progression a far more invasive approach is taken when a rod is surgically inserted and attached to the spine to prevent any further progression.

Chiropractors however, choose to take a more proactive, non invasive and safer approach. Research shows that chiropractic adjustments can help improve cobb angle and slow down curvature progression.

In one study of 28 adult patients with scoliosis, 22 of them had cobb angle reductions and reported improvement in pain scores and disability ratings at 6 and 24 months of chiropractic treatment.

As this cobb angle is reduced, the stress on the lungs and heart is also reduced so patients can enjoy a healthier, longer life.

Seeking chiropractic treatment early is key to stopping or reversing the progression of scoliosis.

Be proactive. Have your kids checked today and get adjusted!

Sources:

J Chiropr Med. 2011 Sep; 10(3): 179–184.

doi: 10.1016/j.jcm.2011.01.006