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Dr. Robert B. Rice
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Scoliosis
80% or more of the
scoliosis cases are caused by unknown reasons! But to find out
what is known, start at this page!
To understand what scoliosis is, first we need to discuss some simple anatomy. When you look at someone from the side, you should see some curves, which is normal. Click here for an example. These curves allow for proper motion of the joints in the spine. However, when you look at someone from the back, you should not see any curves. Curvature here is known as scoliosis.
As previously mentioned, the cause of scoliosis as commonly seen is yet unknown. You may have heard of it called, or diagnosed, "Idiopathic Scoliosis"; idiopathic simply means "With Unknown Cause". What we do know is that females are approximately 10 times more likely then males to have scoliosis, that the occurrence of scoliosis in males is increasing, and that approximately one in ten girls have it today. We know that genetics seem to play a role, that it usually starts at or around the age of 9 - 12 years, and is commonly painless until the victim is 18 years of age or older. The pain and the condition itself can be very disabling and quite deforming.
As you can imagine, scoliosis is a highly-researched disease among the chiropractic profession. The cause is under debate, but there appears to be several different factors. The good news is that, though we aren't completely sure what causes it, we have seen promising breakthroughs with chiropractic treatment, orthopedics, nutrition and exercise.
It is highly recommended that you bring your child in occasionally to screen for scoliosis. As a part of community service, Shiloh Chiropractic will make every attempt to appear at the local schools to screen for this. When a screening indicates that a person has scoliosis, further testing to measure the curve(s) is necessary. Aggressive treatment is often times indicated. We have discovered that the earlier scoliosis is detected, the better the outcome. That is scary because most of the time, the child does not complain of pain from the increasing scoliosis and if not regularly checked, when pain is finally experienced, the outcome of treatment is not as desirable as if early preventative measures were taken.
Success in treatment of scoliosis is a decrease in the progression of the curve, and even a reversal of the curve. Yes, it is possible to correct the curve, but in most cases, success is found in stopping or slowing the progression of the curve.
Some may wonder if there is hope for those adults who have scoliosis. It all really depends on the age and overall health status of the patient, as well as the severity of the curve. The short answer is, "Most likely, Yes!" In most cases, relief of the pain due to scoliosis will result with effort and determination on the part of the patient as well as the doctor!
Our goals include addressing scoliosis as early as possible, preventing or slowing the progression of the curve(s), decreasing pain (if applicable), and prevent the necessity of medication and or surgery*.
Shiloh Chiropractic: 1207 Frank Scott Pkwy., E | Shiloh, IL 62269 | (618) 208-02299