Chiropractic and Scoliosis

Scoliosis is the sideways curvature of the spinal column. One of the causes of this could be a leg length difference . If the left leg is for example shorter than the right leg, the pelvis will compensate by tilting. Consequently, the pelvis becomes lower on the left side with the result that the lower spine also  has a tendency to move to the same side. In order to adapt, the spine pulls to the right in the region of shoulder blades and so creates a kind of S-curve. This is what we would call a scoliosis.

Scoliosis in children

Scoliosis occurs in children as well as adults. Mostly these cases occur in the childhood years generally between 9 to 13 years of age. This also often coincides with one of the childhood growth phases. Scoliosis can cause lower back  and neck problems as well as pain between the shoulder blades. Sometimes this can occur simultaneously with growth pains.

Chiropractic

Chiropractic is a healing art that has existed for more than 100 years. The chiropractic treatments are focused on improving the movement of the spine and optimising its relationship with the nervous system. The chiropractor checks the spine for fixations, that being, areas that are both locked up and affecting the surrounding joints, muscles and nerves. Via a thorough examination and a focused treatment the chiropractor localises and corrects these areas of fixation. This results in optimal functioning of the spine and the restoration of nerve flow in such a way that the body can begin to self-heal

The First Visit

• Intake                        
  A patient questionnaire is filled in followed by a discussion with the chiropractor in order to establish a thorough case history.
• Examination              
  Chiropractic tests
  Neurological test
  Orthopaedic test
• X-ray, MRI, IDXA         
  Whichever is indicated necessary
• Diagnosis                       
  Given by the Chiropractor
• Treatment                     
  Nearly always already on the first visit

The Chiropractic Treatment    

With his/her specialist knowledge and experience the chiropractor checks the spine, the nervous system and pelvis of the child for unnatural movement and dysfunction. In doing so s/he comes know the cause of the misalignment. Chiropractic treatments have as their goal, the improvement  of faulty postures, the flexible movement of the spine and the restoration of the proper functioning of irritated nerves .

Furthermore, the chiropractor can give advice on proper body posture and prescribe exercises to keep child’s spine healthy. With scoliosis, it is also possible that the chiropractor could recommend a heel raise. When the desired treatment result is achieved, then the chiropractor will often advise your child to come back for a check-up treatment. By keeping the spine in optimal health, you keep the child moving freely and reduce the chance of any problems reoccurring.

Most commonly asked questions

Are chiropractic treatments safe?
Absolutely. Children are treated by means of chiropractic techniques which are adapted to their needs and are gentle.

Why must my child come back if s/he feels good?
You can also ask the question,” Why must your child also go regularly to the dentist for a check-up if he or she doesn’t have any toothache? Through the checking and optimisation of the spine, this helps it to develop and grow the best it can. By keeping the child’s spine flexible and strong you are helping the prevention of future problems.

Prevention of Spinal Complaints in Children

Because the child is still young, any potentially problematic posture can be corrected. Therefore it is important that the child is conscious of the importance of a good body posture.

A good posture in a child is an important condition in becoming a healthy and balanced adult. Use a rucksack instead of a school bag in order share the weight across the body evenly and only carry what is strictly necessary.

Recognise Spinal Complaints in children early

Below are 7 simple ways to recognise early signs of spinal problems in children

• Shoulder heights are asymmetrical  when the child stands up straight.
• The hem of a skirt hangs unevenly and in with long pants one of the legs is shorter than the other.
• The muscles on the one side of the spine contract more than the other side. This will be more visibly noticeable with a naked back when the child bends forward with the arms hanging at the sides.
• One of the shoes tends to wear unequally or faster than the other.
• The head of the child tilts more to the one side. Normally the head should be held directly above the body.
• If the child holds their arms evenly in front the body. Both hands should have the same reach.
• The child’s hips are at different heights. This can felt by placing both hands on the hips

Finally

Get the spine of your child regularly checked. Any misalignments can corrected in a timely manner and any future problems at a later age be prevented . You would take your child regularly to a dentist for preventative care, therefore why not to a chiropractor?

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