Shouting out about Scoliosis

Shouting out about Scoliosis!

Scoliosis or (curvature of the spine) is when the spine curves to the side. The spine can also twist at the same time. This twisting can pull the rib cage out of position.

Scoliosis is not a disease. It just means that in an often otherwise healthy person the spine is curved or twisted. It does not develop because of anything a person did or did not do.

Although many people have not heard of scoliosis it is not rare. Scoliosis can affect people at different points in their lives.

It can happen:
• Before birth (congenital)
• In young children early onset
• In older children and teenagers (adolescent idiopathic)
• As adults (degenerative)

In most cases the cause is unknown (idiopathic) but scoliosis may sometimes be found in your family history.

Scoliosis can affect a person’s appearance because when the spine bends to the side, the small bones that make up the spine (called vertebrae) can become twisted.

The twisted vertebrae can pull the ribs round with them, which sometimes causes a lump to form on the person’s back or for their back to appear rounded.

Other signs of scoliosis are a shoulder blade that sticks out or an uneven waist.

Spotting and treating a curve early is important to assess the curve and determine what treatment may be needed. If curves are discovered late, when they are already severe, treatment can be more difficult and sometimes work less well.

If you are concerned that you or a family member may potentially have curvature of the spine, please do not hesitate to contact Gorey Family Chiropractic to arrange a specialised assessment.