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The Role of Chiropractors in Scoliosis Management

Posted on by Dr. Oscar Finn (Chiropractor)
chiropractor for scoliosis
14
Feb

Scoliosis is an abnormal lateral (sideways) S-shaped curvature of the spine which can cause discomfort, affect posture, and raise concerns depending on its progression and severity. Thankfully, managing this condition doesn’t have to be a solitary journey. 

Chiropractic can play a pivotal role in managing scoliosis, through offering tailored techniques alongside other recommendations and protocols. 

This blog will outlay the multifaceted approach chiropractors provide in helping people with scoliosis.

   Collaboration is Key

Scoliosis management thrives on a multifaceted approach. Chiropractors in addition to performing specific spinal adjustments to areas with subluxation, can also prescribe specific strengthening exercises to help stabilise the spine and build on the corrective changes after an adjustment. This synergy maximises the effectiveness of treatment and ensures all bases are covered.

Tailored Chiropractic Techniques

Unlike the “one-size-fits-all” approach, chiropractors employ specific techniques designed for this unique condition. These may include:

  • Scoliosis-specific spinal adjustments: These gentle, targeted adjustments aim to improve joint mobility and function within the limitations of the scoliotic spine, potentially contributing to reduced pain and improved flexibility. 
  • Muscle balancing and strengthening exercises: Addressing muscle imbalances around the spine is crucial for supporting the structure and preventing further curvature. Your chiropractor may prescribe specific exercises to activate weak muscles and lengthen tight ones, improving posture and stability. Research supports the effectiveness of exercise-based therapy for scoliosis, with studies showing positive impacts on Cobb angle, pain, and function. (Citation: Braune, S., et al. (2019). Non-surgical treatment of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis: the role of exercise therapy. Scoliosis and Spinal Disorders, 14, 19.)
  • Postural education and lifestyle modifications: Maintaining good posture throughout daily activities reduces stress on the spine. Chiropractors guide patients on proper postures, sitting and sleeping positions, and ergonomic adjustments in workplaces, empowering them to actively participate in their recovery. Studies have shown that postural education and training can improve awareness and potentially impact progression in some cases. (Citation: Cheneau, P., et al. (2016). Bracing in idiopathic scoliosis of the adolescent: a 20-year follow-up of the Risser study. European Spine Journal, 25(5), 1425-1432.)

Real-World Success Stories

While research on the effectiveness of chiropractic adjustments for scoliosis is ongoing, some studies suggest potential benefits in specific cases. For example, a 2012 case study by Leboeuf et al. reported a reduction in pain and Cobb angle in an adult with scoliosis following chiropractic care. (Citation: Leboeuf, R. P., et al. (2012). Chiropractic care for adult idiopathic scoliosis: a case report. Journal of the Canadian Chiropractic Association, 56(4), 369-376.) It’s important to remember that individual results may vary depending on the severity of scoliosis, patient factors, and techniques utilised.

Empowering Patients

Chiropractic care in scoliosis is not only about “fixing” the curve, but about empowering patients to manage their condition effectively. With a deeper understanding of their scoliosis, the tools to maintain good posture, and the ability to manage pain, individuals can move with confidence and live active lives.

Remember

Every scoliosis case is unique. Consulting a qualified chiropractor specialising in scoliosis is crucial to ensure a personalised and evidence-based approach. At Sims & Finn Chiropractic we are passionate about helping patients manage their scoliotic curvatures and thrive in life with optimal function. Our four conveniently accessible clinics in the south east of Melbourne are staffed by professional chiropractors who have a thorough understanding of scoliosis and the best manner in which this presentation can be managed.

 

FAQ

Chiropractic care contributes to scoliosis treatment by providing specific spinal adjustments to areas of vertebral subluxation.

A vertebral subluxation is where a vertebra has lost its normal alignment in relation to the spinal bone above and below, resulting in irritation to the muscle, pressure on the spinal discs, and impacting the relationship between that vertebral level and its corresponding spinal nerve.

It’s important to correct the presence of these vertebral subluxations to restore proper motion and alignment, therefore impacting the degree and severity of the scoliotic curvature.

  • What exercises are recommended by chiropractors for scoliosis patients?

There are two main types of exercises that can be prescribed to patients with scoliosis.

The first is called the Schroth Method, the second is called SEAS, better known as Scientific Exercise Approach to Scoliosis.

While both may appear similar, they have fine, intricate differences and one may be better suited for your specific scoliosis presentation.

Your chiropractor will assess the degree of scoliotic angle to determine what exercises, stretches and supplementing interventions would be beneficial to help improve your spinal alignment and overall function.

Your chiropractor may also prescribe a spinal orthotic device known as a ‘Scoliroll’ which can have a significant impact on reducing the cobb angle of the scoliotic curvature.

  • Are there potential risks associated with chiropractic care for scoliosis?

As with any healthcare approach, potential risks exist – however serious complications are extremely rare. However a patient with significant scoliosis may experience some degree of discomfort during the initial stages of corrective chiropractic care. This may occur as a response to the structural changes that are occurring to the spine. These however should not be significantly painful or long-lasting. It is of important to note that a scoliosis is usually a chronic presentation and as a result the spine will have been positioned in an abnormal state – taking it to a more normal position may not be readily accepted by the body; which is why consistency with your chiropractic adjustments initially may be required.

  • How long does it take to see results from chiropractic care for scoliosis?

Improvements from chiropractic care for scoliosis vary from person to person.

While it may be easy to liken that the greater the scoliosis (in terms of its severity and cobb angle), the more adjustments and intervention is needed – but this is not always the case.

Your chiropractor will perform a thorough assessment to determine exactly what is required to help address your signs and symptoms in addition to improving your scoliotic curvature.

  • Can chiropractic care be combined with other scoliosis treatments?

Chiropractic is perfectly suited to be combined with other scoliosis treatments.

In particular, the utilisation of specific scoliotic strengthening and remediative exercises (SEAS or Schroth based approaches) pairs perfectly with chiropractic adjustments to reduce the level of discomfort, improve the range of motion through the spine and aim to lessen the scoliotic curvatures and cob angles that can be associated with a scoliosis of the spine.

Similarly chiropractic adjustments work well when paired with spinal braces (such as the Boston brace, and 3D spinal braces) as the improved motion to the specific spinal vertebrae from a chiropractic adjustment allows for the bracing apparatus to have a greater effect in influencing motion and change to the structure of the spine.