Botti Chiropractic & Wellness | Scoliosis Treatments
Scoliosis is a condition wherein the spine becomes abnormally rotated and curved to the side. The degree of the curve is measured as the Cobb angle. Idiopathic scoliosis is the most common type of scoliosis whose cause remains unknown yet. As for the treatment of patients with scoliosis, the course of action depends on the Cobb angle. Although conventional treatments for scoliosis are still practiced, some new alternative therapies have started piquing the interest of many people. Today, we, at Botti Chiropractic & Wellness, are going to share five of the most effective treatments for scoliosis.
Observation
This option is meant especially for children. If a child is found to be suffering from scoliosis, the curve is measured first. If it falls anywhere between 10 to 24 degrees, the need is to measure the curve a few times a year. This process is termed as observation and the idea behind it is that, if the measurement of the curve increases to 25 degrees or higher, it implies that there is a need to initiate a different type of treatment.
Bracing
One of the aims of scoliosis treatment is to prevent the curve from increasing when a child’s bones are in the growing stage. Bracing is an effective treatment option if a child’s curve is between 25 and 45 degrees. Usually, the braces are required to be worn anywhere between 16 to 23 hours a day until the growing period of the child ends. Thanks to braces, the curve stops progressing in as many as 80 percent of the cases.
Surgery
Surgery is the recommended treatment option when the curve reaches up to 40 or 50 degrees in both teens as well as adult patients. The aim of scoliosis surgery is twofold; first, to correct (i.e. straighten) the scoliosis curve and second, to prevent it from progressing any further.
The surgery entails putting metal implants and rods into the spine, which helps reduce or eliminate the curves and keeps the spine like that until fusion (the knitting together of the spinal elements) occurs.
Schroth method
While all the previously mentioned treatments for scoliosis were centered around conventional medical treatment, the Schroth method is an alternative form of treatment. The Schroth method is a physical therapy approach that involves adhering to a disciplined regime consisting of very specific exercises, bracing and lifestyle coaching. There is anecdotal evidence of the Schroth method actually reversing curves in adolescents and adults. Also, many people with large curves have been able to avoid surgery, thanks to the Schroth method.
Chiropractic Treatment
Chiropractic treatments such as a chiropractic adjustment and/or postural restoration have emerged as effective treatment options for scoliosis curve management. Chiropractic treatment can help straighten out the spine. The Cobb angles of a number of scoliosis patients have been reported to decrease after chiropractic adjustments.
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That was a comprehensive list of the most commonly adopted treatments for scoliosis. While the conventional treatment options have their own set of advantages, quite often, the alternative treatment methods mentioned can also prove to be equally effective. It is always recommended to consult an expert regarding the best treatment option for scoliosis. When it comes to Oak Lawn Chiropractors, Dr. Valentino Botti is here for all patients suffering from scoliosis. Whether you have been diagnosed with scoliosis or not, if you are experiencing any discomfort in the back, give Botti Chiropractic & Wellness a call today. Schedule your appointment and you are one step closer to a pain-free life!