What Is Scoliosis?

​

Scoliosis is a medical condition of which the spine has a sideways curve usually in a C or S shape. Mild scoliosis often causes postural imbalance whilst severe Scoliosis can interfere with breathing and organ functions. It’s very rare to have scoliosis from birth. It is often diagnosed between the ages of 8-16 years old as the child is growing and maturing with prevalence being more common in girls.

​

What Causes Scoliosis?

​

Scoliosis may be caused by some minor shape differences in the vertebrae (back bones) or leg length differences, but often it is a functional condition because of muscle tightness and imbalances, poor posture or uneven use.

​

Signs of Scoliosis

​

• One shoulder is higher than the other.

• Difference in the shape of the rib cage or a ‘rib hump’ when they bend forward.

• Observing from behind or you may see a sideways curve in the spine in standing or bending forward.

• One hip appears higher than the other

• When standing with their arms hanging by their sides, the gap between their elbow and waist is not equal on both sides.

 

If you notice one or more of these changes then you should contact your Osteopath for a full spinal assessment.

​

How Do Osteopathic Help with Scoliosis?

​

The aim of osteopathic treatment in those with scoliosis is to restore balance to the muscles, ligaments and joints. By that we mean releasing tight muscles through stretching and soft tissue release techniques, keeping the joints mobile and free from restrictions. During the course of treatment corrective exercises and postural advice will be given to maintain the treatment effects and reduce the curvature over a period of time.