Understanding Adult Scoliosis: How Chiropractic Can Help, Part II
October 18, 2018
By Chiro One Wellness Centers
How can chiropractic help a patient with scoliosis feel better overall?
Many patients with scoliosis have struggled with a lifetime of discomfort, physically and emotionally. Most people with scoliosis are diagnosed during the difficult teen years and many have worn bulky, uncomfortable and visible braces during these formative years. Some patients carry these discomforts and insecurities with them into adulthood, and slight or significant improvements in posture can help a patient with scoliosis feel less self-conscious and better about their appearance overall.
What is a scoliosis brace for adults?
Unlike the corrective braces worn during adolescent years, the adult scoliosis brace is supportive, more comfortable and worn for shorter periods. At Chiro One offices, we have the Peak Scoliosis Bracing System. This brace features a more comfortable and adjustable design, and typically, the brace is for short-term wear (typically 4-12 hours a day). The brace helps to reduce pain and pressure, release tension, improve posture, enhance mobility and increase quality of life.
If I have been diagnosed with scoliosis, should I see a chiropractor?
Absolutely. A chiropractor is an excellent member of your support team. An expert in the musculoskeletal system, your chiropractic physician offers invaluable insight and treatment options. Also, chiropractic care can help halt or diminish further degeneration of the spine. Patients with scoliosis often experience other spinal issues due to dysfunction caused by the abnormal curvatures in their spine. Scoliosis patients at many of Chiro One’s chiropractic offices have benefitted from chiropractic adjustments, therapies and the Peak Scoliosis Bracing System.
If I suspect I may have scoliosis, should I see a chiropractor?
Yes, your chiropractic physician can diagnosis scoliosis and determine the degree of curvature. If your curve is under 40 degrees, your chiropractor can prescribe an individualized treatment plan. For those in the 10 to 40 degree range, it is critical to receive chiropractic treatment to help diminish, delay or halt further degeneration in the spine. If your curve is over 40 degrees, some doctors will recommend surgery due to the degree of curvature, which can compress and damage organs in the body.
I have a Harrington rod, is chiropractic safe for me?
Yes, you can choose chiropractic care if you have a Harrington rod. Chiropractors utilize different techniques for adjusting, often using gentle tools and methods like the Activator Method (a small tool that allows the chiropractor to use a minimized amount of force for an adjustment). These alternative adjustments can achieve the same benefits as “typical” adjustments performed on patients without scoliosis. Ask your chiropractor if he or she has experience treating a patient who has a Harrington rod or spinal surgery, and disclose any information regarding your surgery prior to treatment.
What should I expect from my chiropractor?
At a chiropractic evaluation, you should expect to:
- Discuss family and health history
- Take X-rays of your spine
- Receive an individualized treatment plan tied to specific goals
All of our doctors at Chiro One Wellness Centers are experienced in treating patients with scoliosis, and many patients have reported success in relieving pain, improving posture, increasing functionality and boosting confidence.
