DO YOU HAVE SCOLIOSIS?

SCOLIOSIS IN BOYNTON BEACH

More Boynton Beach Florida residents suffer from scoliosis than you may realize.

Typically, scoliosis is a minor bend in the spine that gradually progresses. In fact, for a diagnosis of scoliosis, the spine must have a minimum of a 60-degree sideways bend. By the time the condition has progressed to that stage, there are often severe health consequences. The good news is that if the curvature of the spine is identified and properly treated in its early stages, it can be prevented.

What is Scoliosis?

There is little consensus on why scoliosis develops, although studies have shown that scoliosis is more likely to occur in young adolescent females. However, adults often develop the condition as adults. This could be due to lifestyle habits, previous injury or trauma, recreational activities, or conditions such as osteoporosis. Left untreated, scoliosis can cause back pain and stiffness, numbness, cramping, and shooting pain in the legs from pressure put on nerves.

The condition begins with a small bend in the spine from a simple misalignment of a single vertebra. Left untreated, the body begins to compensate for this abnormality and the spine develops an “S” or “C” shaped curve. Parents and children notice shoulders that are not level and an offset in the pelvic area.

As part of a routine exam, our MDR Advanced Medical Associates chiropractors examine the hips and shoulders for an un-leveling and check the legs for variation in length, which is another sign of scoliosis. In addition, our chiropractors are experienced and proficient at identifying the presence of scoliosis by evaluating the range of motion in the spine.

Unlike many spinal conditions, scoliosis cannot be reversed by changes in posture. The spine develops lateral curves and left untreated, scoliosis can lead to severe consequences, including heart and lung problems.

Treatment for Scoliosis

While chiropractors are unable to straighten your spine completely, studies have shown a marked improvement in spine curvature, pain, and disability among those with scoliosis. By removing obstacles of misaligned joints, stretched muscles, and compressed discs, a chiropractor can maximize your well-being without drugs or surgery.

Through chiropractic adjustments and flexion distraction to “stretch out” thinned areas in your discs, a chiropractor improves flexibility and range of motion while relieving pain. Abnormal curvature in the spine creates unnatural pressure and tension in your back muscles. As time passes, your muscles become accustomed to those positions and can form trigger points or become stiff and sore. Massage is another therapy that can be very effective in relieving stretched and tight muscles. Some effective massage techniques include:

• Cranial-Sacral Massage
• Deep Tissue Massage
• Natural Reflex Therapy

When you need relief from the suffering of scoliosis, MDR Advanced Medical Associates are ready to work with you, create a chiropractic care treatment plan individually tailored to your needs, and help you return to a healthy lifestyle.