A Look at the Effects of Scoliosis on the Body

Last updated 6 months ago

Scoliosis, an abnormal curvature of the spine, is sometimes non-symptomatic. However, in other cases, it can be debilitating. Scoliosis usually begins at a very young age—in fact, some children are born with it—but the symptoms may not appear until the child experiences a growth spurt. Although scoliosis can be a serious problem, chiropractic care can help patients get out of pain. Here are some of the effects that scoliosis can have on the body:

Back Pain

Not everyone with scoliosis experiences back pain, but it is present in many cases. Pain in the lower back is most common, but scoliosis can cause pain anywhere along the spine, depending on the location and severity of the abnormal curvature.

Physical Abnormalities

In many cases, patients with abnormal spinal curves will display physical symptoms. One shoulder may be higher than the other, or one side of the rib cage may protrude more than the other one. The head may also appear off-center, or one hip may appear higher than the other. As a result, it may seem like one leg is longer than the other. This symptom is most often noticed when someone with scoliosis tries on pants and notices the hem hits at a different point on each leg. A lump on the back may also signify scoliosis.

Heart and Lung Problems

In some cases, the curve of the spine may be so severe that it presses against the heart and lungs. When this happens, the patient may experience chest pain or become short of breath very easily.

A chiropractor can help patients with scoliosis in many ways, from spinal manipulation to treatments for pain relief. At Peterson Chiropractic in NYC, our chiropractors work with a multi-disciplinary team for our patients with scoliosis to make sure they get the best possible treatment. To schedule a free scoliosis consultation at our NYC chiropractic clinic, call (212) 242-3210. Don’t forget to ask about our massage therapy treatments, as well.