If You Have Scoliosis, Chiropractic Treatment By Your Chiropractor In Grand Rapids Can Help
August 4th, 2011 | by admin |What exactly is scoliosis? A good chiropractor, such as your Grand Rapids chiropractor, can define it clearly for you: scoliosis is an abnormal side-to-side (lateral) curvature of the spine. Your chiropractor wants you to know that there is a big difference between bad posture and the condition known as scoliosis. Whereas bad posture is easily correctable, scoliosis, an abnormal lateral curvature of the spine, is considerably more difficult to affect.
Even before your appointment with your chiropractor in Grand Rapids, there are several ways for you to observe the difference between poor posture and scoliosis. First of all, you would probably notice that one shoulder is higher than the other in a standing position, and that the scapula (shoulder blade) is raised or more prominent. In addition, if the person’s arms were hanging loosely at his or her sides, you would likely see a greater space between the arm and the body on one side. Also, one hip would likely higher or more prominent than the other. And one more clue might be that the head will not be in plumb with the pelvis.
Scoliosis symptoms can be mild; however, if the curve and rib rotation are dramatic enough, both pulmonary and cardiac functions can be hindered. In the majority of cases of scoliosis, the cause is unknown. This type of scoliosis (Idiopathic) tends to run in families and is considered to have a genetic component.
Idiopathic Scoliosis commonly develops during adolescence when the body is completing its final major growth spurt. Most frequently girls develop this type of scoliosis. A scoliotic curve, if found, should be monitored for any progression. Your chiropractor in Grand Rapids will not only provide periodic examinations, but will suggest standing x-rays if needed.
As mentioned above, most (nearly 90 percent) of scoliotic curvatures are mild to moderate, and make a brace unnecessary. Therefore, regular chiropractic care, in these cases, is therapeutic in both in decreasing and adjusting any compensatory musculoskeletal conditions that can take place.
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