Scoliosis is a spinal condition where the spine curves sideways. It’s a spinal condition you may often hear mentioned and perhaps even remember being screened for it as a young teenager. It often becomes evident during the growth spurt before puberty, hence those middle school year exams. While scoliosis can be caused by conditions such as cerebral palsy and muscular dystrophy, the cause of most scoliosis is unknown.

Most cases of scoliosis are mild, but severe scoliosis can be disabling. Left to its own devices, scoliosis will continue to get worse, rotating or twisting the spine to abnormally curve from one side to another.

Severe scoliosis curves can reduce the amount of space within the chest, making it difficult for the lungs to function properly and the individual is unable to take a deep breath – even feeling short of breath at rest.

Symptoms of scoliosis may include uneven shoulders, one shoulder blade that appears more prominent than the other, uneven waist or one hip is higher on one side versus the other. It’s important to relay these concerns to your child’s healthcare provider if you notice these symptoms. Mild curves, however, can develop without the parent or child knowing it because they appear gradually and usually don’t cause pain.

Remember, preventative chiropractic care included in your family’s wellness care can spot scoliosis early and provide education, exercises and specific chiropractic care to correct the scoliosis and prevent any future health complications in the future.

Reference: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/scoliosis/symptoms-causes/syc-20350716