What Is Scoliosis?
Scoliosis is a sideways curvature of the spine, often appearing as an S- or C-shaped curve rather than the spine’s normal straight-down-the-middle alignment. It’s most commonly diagnosed during adolescence, but it can develop or be identified at any age.
Most cases of scoliosis are mild and don’t require aggressive treatment, but monitoring and appropriate care can help manage symptoms and support spinal health, especially when identified early.
Common Causes of Scoliosis
- Idiopathic (unknown cause) — the vast majority of scoliosis cases have no identifiable cause and often appear during growth spurts.
- Congenital factors — in rare cases, the spine’s bones don’t form properly before birth.
- Neuromuscular conditions — conditions affecting muscle control can contribute to spinal curvature.
- Degenerative changes — adult-onset scoliosis can develop from age-related wear on the spine.
- Genetics — scoliosis can run in families, suggesting a genetic component in some cases.
Symptoms to Watch For
- Uneven shoulders or waistline
- One shoulder blade that appears more prominent than the other
- A visible curve or asymmetry in the spine
- Back pain or discomfort, particularly in adults
- Fatigue in the spine after prolonged standing or sitting
- In more significant cases, changes in posture or height
When to See a Doctor
Mild scoliosis often doesn’t require treatment, but monitoring matters, and certain symptoms call for evaluation.
Seek care promptly if:
- A visibly worsening curve over time
- Back pain that’s new or increasing
- Symptoms in a child that appear to be progressing quickly
- Numbness, tingling, or weakness accompanying the curve
- Difficulty with balance or coordination
If any of these apply to you or your child, call 386-400-3620 to schedule an evaluation.
How We Treat Scoliosis at Kyro Care
Every case starts with a physical exam to assess the degree and pattern of the curve. Once we understand the specifics, care may include:
Chiropractic care
Helps manage pain and maintain mobility associated with scoliosis, particularly in adults.
Postural and core exercises
Supports better spinal alignment and overall function.
Soft-tissue therapy
Addresses muscle imbalances that often develop alongside a spinal curve.
Monitoring and referral
For significant or progressing curves, we can help coordinate with other specialists as needed.
We focus on managing symptoms and supporting spinal health at any stage. call 386-400-3620 to schedule an evaluation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can chiropractic care cure scoliosis? +
Chiropractic care can’t reverse a structural spinal curve, but it can help manage pain, improve mobility, and support better function alongside any other care your case requires.
How is scoliosis diagnosed? +
A physical exam and, when needed, an X-ray can confirm the presence and degree of a spinal curve. Screening during childhood growth spurts is common.
Will my child’s scoliosis get worse? +
It varies by case. Mild curves often remain stable, while others may progress, particularly during growth spurts, which is why monitoring matters.
Is scoliosis painful? +
Many cases, especially in adolescents, cause little to no pain. Adult-onset scoliosis is more likely to be associated with discomfort, often related to the degenerative changes that caused it.
Can adults develop scoliosis? +
Yes. While many cases are identified in childhood, degenerative scoliosis can develop in adulthood as a result of age-related changes in the spine.
Do I need a back brace for scoliosis? +
Bracing is typically reserved for specific cases, usually in growing children with a moderate curve. We can help guide you on whether further evaluation for bracing is appropriate.
