Scoliosis Specialist In Fairfax, VA
Scoliosis is a condition where the spine curves sideways in an abnormal manner.
The immediate onset of scoliosis is in early childhood. It is common in adolescents aged 10-15 years when the body experiences a growth spurt. The condition is called adolescent idiopathic scoliosis.
Treatment includes chiropractic adjustments and targeted stretching to improve flexibility. We will also provide scoliosis-specific exercises to better support your spine.
Dr. Gregory Lee, DC, is a leading chiropractor at the Active Family Wellness clinic. He diagnoses patients by looking at the type, severity, and classification of their curves.
If you are suffering from Scoliosis in Fairfax, call us at (703) 373-7113 to book an appointment.
Symptoms of Scoliosis
There are various significant symptoms associated with scoliosis. The most common is abnormal side-to-side backbone curvature. There is also the possibility of there being some twisting and rotation of the spine in some cases.
For example, some people suffer from the ribs sticking out further on one side than the other. There are other scoliosis symptoms, which include:
- An uneven waist
- Severe shooting hip pain
- One shoulder is higher than the other
- One hip higher than the other
- Shoulder blades are not equally prominent
Types of Scoliosis
Most scoliosis cases are idiopathic, which means the cause is unknown. Idiopathic scoliosis generally affects adolescents.
Additionally, there are two scoliosis types which are:
- Congenital scoliosis is a spinal deformity at birth which usually affects the fifth lumbar vertebra
- Acquired scoliosis is an irreversible condition induced by repetitive spinal trauma or injuries
Long-Term Problems Due to Ignoring Scoliosis: Untreated scoliosis can sometimes cause stiffness and reduced range of motion. Getting evaluated early can help prevent it from progressing further.
Causes of Scoliosis
Scoliosis can run in families, so genetics may play a role in some cases. Scoliosis doesn’t result from carrying heavy things or poor posture. There is no specific cause for more than 80% of scoliosis cases.
The possible causes for the other two less common forms of scoliosis are:
- Spinal and physical deformities at birth
- Spinal infections or trauma
- Neuromuscular disorders like cerebral palsy and muscular dystrophy
- Frequent muscle spasms in the spinal region
Temporary Pain Management
It is better to seek professional scoliosis treatment to prevent irreversible spine damage. The following self-care options provide temporary pain relief:
- OTC painkillers
- Placing ice packs on the inflamed regions
- Traditional massage therapy
- Wearing braces helps reduce the curve in a growing child’s body
Surgery may be resorted to in severe cases of scoliosis:
- Spinal fusion and decompression
- Bone grafting in rare cases
While surgery is generally considered a last option, chiropractic care offers a non-surgical approach to managing scoliosis.
Chiropractic Scoliosis Treatment in Fairfax
Chiropractic is a medication-free, non-invasive and safe scoliosis treatment option. A chiropractor assesses the patient’s condition and advises treatment which may comprise the following procedures:
- Stretching exercises
- Spinal manipulation
- Non-surgical therapies like soft tissue therapy
- Spinal exercises
Book an Appointment
Please use the booking tool below to request an appointment. Our patient care coordinator will call you shortly to discuss your symptoms and finalize your appointment.
How do we treat scoliosis pain?
- (703) 373-7113
Let Us Help to treat your Scoliosis
Do not ignore your lower back pain, it can become worse over time. It’s important to consult with the doctor and understand the root cause of scoliosis.
Frequently Asked Questions About Scoliosis
Does Medical Insurance Cover Scoliosis Treatment?
Most insurance plans may cover the cost of scoliosis chiropractic treatment. We encourage you to contact us so that our staff can verify your benefits before proceeding with the treatment.
Is gymnastics bad for scoliosis?
It is better to avoid gymnastics if suffering from scoliosis. The repetitive extended spinal motions can lead to the progression of scoliosis. Modified techniques may, however, be resorted to if participating in gymnastics.
Is scoliosis a neurological condition?
Only a few rare scoliosis cases result from neuromuscular conditions like muscular dystrophy or cerebral palsy. Other types of scoliosis, caused by injury or physical deformities, are not triggered by neurological disorders.
Does scoliosis worsen with age?
It depends on the severity of the scoliosis condition. Scoliosis with minor curvature doesn’t usually progress with age. If the curve is significant and more than 50 degrees, then the condition worsens with age.
Can scoliosis affect bowel movements?
Scoliosis can affect bowel movements, but only in rare and severe cases. Depending on the spine curvature and location, it may lead to blocked intestines and possible constipation.
Isn’t a certain amount of sideways curvature normal?
It is normal to have some sideways curvature in the back. It is not normal when the curvature becomes S or C-shaped. It affects everyday life, which isn’t usual.
Can scoliosis affect breathing & your height?
It is possible in some cases, and it depends on the severity and location of the spinal curvature. In severe cases, changes in the rib cage may reduce the space around the heart and lungs, which can make breathing more difficult. Mild and moderate curves usually do not affect breathing.
Scoliosis can also affect height. A curved spine is shorter than a straight one, so severe cases can make a person measure or look shorter than they are. Mild cases have little to no noticeable effect on height.
What organs are affected by scoliosis?
In severe cases, scoliosis may affect nearby structures, depending on the location of the curvature. The constant pressure on the rib cage may:
- Reduce the space around the heart and lungs
- Put pressure on the intestine and stomach
- Place strain on the nervous system
