While plenty of mystery remains surrounding the cause of scoliosis, this spine condition affects between six and nine million Americans. Though the spinal curvature caused by scoliosis isn’t always harmful, complications can occur in extreme cases. At Better Health Solutions in Scottsdale, Arizona, the team of experts diagnose the severity of your scoliosis and determine the best course of action for correction. If you’re suffering from scoliosis and want to learn more, (480) 945-6900 to schedule your consultation or book online.
Scoliosis is the medical term for an abnormal sideways curvature of your spine. This curvature typically occurs during the sudden growth experienced during puberty.
Though many cases of scoliosis occur during puberty, the actual cause of scoliosis is still unknown. It’s thought that genetics play a role, as the condition tends to run in families. Some types of scoliosis can stem from certain medical conditions as well, such as muscular dystrophy or birth defects affecting the spine.
Age and sex may also play a role in scoliosis development. Though boys and girls are equally likely to develop the condition, the rate of curvature worsening and requiring treatment is much higher for girls than boys.
What are the symptoms of scoliosis?
The primary symptoms of scoliosis are visible abnormalities in the symmetry of your body. For example, you might have uneven shoulders, an uneven waist, or a hip or shoulder that appears higher than the other. In more severe cases, your ribs might jut out further than usual. If left untreated, scoliosis can also affect mobility and gait.
Though rare, severe cases of scoliosis can lead to more significant health problems, such as lung and heart damage or chronic pain.
Many patients who suffer from scoliosis become self-conscious about their appearance, so early diagnosis and treatment can help avoid drastic changes in physical appearance.
Minor cases of scoliosis respond well to traction. During a traction session, your provider uses a series of medical weights and pulleys to gently stretch your back. This helps realign the muscles and bones along your spine over time.
If you have scoliosis and you’re not quite done growing, your provider might provide a back brace for you to wear. You wear this kind of brace under your clothing day and night, though you can remove it if necessary. Wearing this brace prevents further progression of scoliosis and you can usually discontinue use after you’ve stopped growing.
If you or a loved one suffer from scoliosis, let the experts at Better Health Solutions in Scottsdale, Arizona, lend their expert care. Call to schedule your consultation or book online.
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