Scoliosis is a complex spinal condition that involves a curvature of the spine in a C or S shape when viewed from the front. As with many medical conditions, myths and misconceptions surround it, leading to confusion, unnecessary fear, and misinformed decisions. This article aims to dispel four prevalent misconceptions about scoliosis.
1. Misconception: Only Posture Causes Scoliosis
Truth: While poor posture can certainly lead to or exacerbate back problems, scoliosis is not merely a product of sitting or standing incorrectly. The exact cause of most idiopathic scoliosis (which accounts for about 80% of cases) remains unknown. However, several factors may contribute to its development:
Genetics: There's evidence that scoliosis can run in families.
Neuromuscular conditions: Such as cerebral palsy or muscular dystrophy.
Congenital factors: Where spinal bones develop abnormally in the womb.
It's essential to recognize that telling someone with scoliosis to "stand up straight" won't address the underlying issue.
2. Misconception: Scoliosis Only Affects Adolescents
Truth: While the most common type is adolescent idiopathic scoliosis, which appears during growth spurts in puberty, the condition can manifest or be diagnosed at any age:
Infantile scoliosis: Occurs in children aged 0-3.
Juvenile scoliosis: Affects children aged 4-10.
Adult scoliosis: This can be a continuation of adolescent scoliosis or can arise in adulthood due to spinal degeneration, trauma, or other causes.
3. Misconception: All Scoliosis Requires Surgery
Truth: The treatment of scoliosis is highly individualized, based on the severity of the curvature, its location, and its potential for progression:
Mild curves: Regular monitoring is often sufficient without additional intervention; however, exploring alternative treatments like upper cervical chiropractic at this stage can help curb the progression of scoliosis.
Moderate curves: Might benefit from upper cervical chiropractic care, physical therapy, exercises, or bracing.
Severe curves: Upper cervical chiropractic care, physical therapy, bracing, and targeted exercises are non-surgical treatment options for severe scoliosis spinal curves.
4. Misconception: People with Scoliosis Can't Participate in Physical Activities
Truth: While it's vital to consult with a healthcare professional about specific activities, many people with scoliosis can, and should, be active. Physical activity can:
Strengthen the back muscles.
Enhance flexibility.
Boost overall well-being.
In many cases, activities like swimming, cycling, and even some competitive sports can be beneficial for those with scoliosis.
Scoliosis is a multifaceted condition that impacts individuals differently. By dispelling myths and misconceptions, we can approach the condition with clarity and empathy, ensuring that those with scoliosis receive accurate information and appropriate care. Always consult with healthcare professionals when seeking guidance or making decisions about scoliosis treatment and management.
We Are Here To Help
Dr. Gordon Elder, our resident chiropractic expert, specializes in scoliosis management through the Blair Upper Cervical Chiropractic Technique. This method emphasizes the precise realignment of the upper cervical spine, thereby activating the body's innate healing capabilities and offering solace to those battling conditions like scoliosis.
Dr. Elder employs a dual-pronged strategy to address and prevent upper cervical misalignments. The journey commences with a 25-30 minute session, during which he delves into patients' medical histories to ascertain if vertebral misalignments are the root cause of their scoliosis. Subsequently, he presents a detailed treatment roadmap, ensuring patients have ample opportunity to seek clarifications about their diagnosis and therapeutic interventions. Part of the diagnostic protocol often entails cutting-edge 3-D imaging to accurately identify misalignment locations.
In the treatment phase, Dr. Elder adeptly employs the Blair Chiropractic Technique to delicately realign vertebrae, thereby neutralizing musculoskeletal irregularities and reinstating the spine's natural curvature.
Post-treatment, it's crucial for patients to revisit for periodic assessments over the span of 3-5 months, guaranteeing the realignment's stability. Generally, patients need around 10 to 15 sessions with Dr. Elder to witness enduring relief.
If scoliosis is affecting your daily life, reach out now to make an appointment with Dr. Elder. Conveniently located in Lubbock, Texas, Dr. Elder also extends his expertise to the areas of Amarillo, Midland, Odessa, Abilene, El Paso in Texas, and Hobbs in New Mexico.
Published by Vic Belonogoff: A Blair Chiropractic doctor helped heal vertigo, among other conditions that Vic Belonogoff suffered from, and it gave him his life back. He continues to see an upper cervical chiropractor as a preventative measure. Vic Belonogoff is passionate about upper cervical chiropractic and how much it helps patients.