Do You Have Scoliosis in Aurora CO?

A number of people suffer from scoliosis in Aurora CO. Typically, scoliosis begins as a minor bend in the spine that gradually progresses. In fact, for the diagnosis of scoliosis to be made, there must be a minimum 60-degree sideways curve of the spine. Once the spine has advanced to this stage there are often severe health consequences. The good news is that if the bending of the spine is discovered and cared for properly during its early stages, it can be prevented from advancing over time. This article discusses how chiropractic care in Aurora CO can help.

Many ideas regarding the cause of scoliosis have been researched and there has been little consensus regarding its origin. However, studies have shown that scoliosis is more likely to occur in young adolescent females. Many times a small bend in the spine begins with the simple misalignment of a single vertebra. Over time, the body begins to compensate for this abnormality, and “S” and “C” shaped curves of the spine develop. Often parents and children first notice the presence of scoliosis due to the un-leveling of the shoulders and pelvis. Unlike other spinal conditions, scoliosis cannot be reversed by changes in posture.

While many cases of scoliosis affect the younger population, it is important to realize that the condition can also develop in older adults. As people age, degenerative disorders such as osteoporosis cause the bones in the spine to lose their normal shape. As a result, the body begins to compensate by producing lateral curves in the spine to ensure that the head remains level. In such cases, if the cause of the bending is not addressed, severe consequences including heart and lung problems may develop.

An x-ray examination performed by your treating physician is the most effective means of detecting scoliosis. However, various orthopedic examinations such as the Adams position test can assist in the diagnosis. Our chiropractors at Colorado Injury & Pain Center will also examine the hips and shoulders for un-leveling and also check the legs for variation in length which can be a clue to the development of scoliosis. Finally, with years of experience, our Colorado Injury & Pain Center doctors have become proficient at identifying the presence of scoliosis by evaluating the range of motion in the spine.

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What Is Scoliosis?

Scoliosis is an abnormal lateral curvature of the spine that affects approximately 2-3% of the population. While it is most commonly detected during adolescence (idiopathic scoliosis), scoliosis can also develop in adults due to degenerative changes or as a secondary complication of other spinal conditions. Scoliosis ranges from mild curves requiring monitoring only to severe curves that can affect lung and heart function.

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Signs and Symptoms of Scoliosis

• Visible curvature of the spine when viewed from behind
• Uneven shoulder height
• One hip appearing higher than the other
• Uneven waistline
• One shoulder blade more prominent than the other
• Back pain and fatigue (more common in adults with scoliosis)
• In severe cases, shortness of breath

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How Chiropractic Care Helps Scoliosis Patients

Chiropractic care for scoliosis focuses on reducing pain, improving spinal mobility, and supporting the best possible spinal mechanics given the degree of curvature. While chiropractic cannot structurally correct established scoliotic curves in adults, it can significantly improve quality of life by reducing associated muscle tension, improving joint mobility, and addressing compensatory patterns throughout the spine and extremities.

For adolescents with mild to moderate scoliosis, early chiropractic care combined with targeted therapeutic exercise may help manage curve progression during the growth years. Dr. Crifase works in collaboration with the patient's medical team when bracing or orthopedic consultation is indicated.

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Scoliosis Screening in Aurora CO

Colorado Injury & Pain Center offers scoliosis screening for children and adolescents. If your child's school has flagged a potential curvature, or if you have noticed any of the signs listed above, we encourage you to schedule an evaluation promptly. Early detection provides the best opportunity for effective management.

Call (303) 995-5812 to schedule a scoliosis evaluation in Aurora, CO. We are open 7 days a week.