Scoliosis Treatment in Williamsburg
Scoliosis is a condition characterized by abnormal curvatures in the spine. While some people use the term to describe any spinal curve or twist, true scoliosis refers specifically to spinal curvatures that exceed 10 degrees on an X-ray.
True scoliosis is a relatively rare condition that is more common in females, typically appearing during adolescence. In scoliosis, the spine bends laterally and rotates, affecting multiple spinal bones (vertebrae).
The Importance of Early Intervention
Scoliosis often starts without causing pain, which makes it challenging to detect and address. Individuals, especially teens, tend to focus on visible issues and may overlook the “silent” problems associated with scoliosis. However, if left untreated, severe scoliosis can lead to significant and permanent physical deformities, affecting not only appearance but also respiratory and cardiac functions. Early intervention is crucial for better outcomes.
Understanding the Condition As a Neurological Issue
Scoliosis is commonly viewed as a structural problem, like the Leaning Tower of Pisa. Like a leaning tower, gravity affects our structure when we’re imbalanced. Bracing techniques used in scoliosis treatment aim to gradually guide the bones back into a more desirable position, similar to how dental braces work. However, it’s important to note that the spine is meant to move and not remain in a fixed posture – and that our bodies are not merely bones, but a dynamic system governed by the nervous system. Only by “teaching” the nervous system towards better symmetry and function can we truly help scoliosis.
Spinal bones are designed to move together, forward and backward, from side to side, and with twisting motions. When one section of the spine becomes stiff and patterned to wrong movements, other areas compensate for the resulting mechanical stress. Chiropractic focuses on helping joints move better, while giving the nervous system cues to seek optimal function and form.
The Idiopathic Adolescent Form
The most common form of scoliosis is called idiopathic adolescent scoliosis. “Idiopathic” means the cause is unknown. This diagnosis often leads to experimental care, since the exact cause cannot be identified. Some experts suggest that idiopathic adolescent scoliosis is a neurological development issue where one side of the body is out of sync with the other.
Chiropractors focus on the nervous system. They use spinal manipulation to stimulate the affected joints and provide neurological input, which helps the body seek its best, optimal function and form.
Conservative Management Approaches
While some patients with extreme cases may require bracing or surgery to manage scoliosis, chiropractors like Dr. Shaye focus primarily on conservative approaches. We recommend having your spine checked by a chiropractor, and this applies to your entire family. Even minor issues with spinal motion, which may not meet the criteria for scoliosis, can benefit from the expertise of a chiropractor.
Modern Chiropractic and Nervous System Function
Popular beliefs about chiropractic often focused on aligning bones, but modern chiropractic emphasizes spinal motion, nervous system function, and the body’s “homeostasis” or ability to function optimally. Chiropractors recognize that the way they move bones is less important than the impact they have on the nervous system’s ability to influence health and healing.
Whether you’re a young person with a spinal curve, a senior athlete aiming for new achievements, a mother or expectant mother, or an average individual seeking overall well-being, chiropractic care can help you reach your full potential.
Book an Appointment
If you think you or your child has scoliosis, or have been told you do but haven’t found an effective solution elsewhere, we want to help. Contact Performance Chiropractic today to book an appointment with Dr. Shaye!
