Scoliosis 2018-01-22T14:51:59+00:00

Project Description

Scoliosis
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Scoliosis

What is Scoliosis?

Scoliosis is an abnormal curvature of the spine to one side. In those who have the condition, the spine bends either to the left or to the right.

The bend can occur at any point along the spine from the top to the bottom. The curvature also varies from slight to severe. However, the chest area (thoracic scoliosis) and the lower part of the back (lumbar scoliosis) are the most common regions to be affected.

What causes it?

In approximately 80% of cases, the cause of scoliosis is unknown (idiopathic). However, it is thought that idiopathic scoliosis runs in families, and researchers have recently discovered a gene that may make people more susceptible to idiopathic scoliosis.

The remaining cases of scoliosis are typically caused by conditions affecting the nerves and the muscles, such as muscular dystrophy or cerebral palsy, which result in children being unable to walk. As they are unable to remain upright their spine does not develop normally.

Scoliosis cannot be caused by a bad posture, exercise, diet or through the use of backpacks or satchels.

How can we help?

Manipulation and physical therapies can help any low back pain that occurs in association with a scoliosis. In the majority of functional scolioses, Physiotherapists can give advice regarding:

  • Posture;
  • Strengthening of muscles and correction of muscle imbalance;
  • Strapping;
  • Exercise.

Exercises can be prescribed, but they will probably not affect the progression of a curve. If a brace is required, an exercise programme will also be prescribed.