Scoliosis, the condition characterized by abnormal, sideways curvature of the spine, can be managed with non-invasive therapies.

1. Scoliosis – Symptoms and Treatment Methods
Scoliosis is a medical condition characterized by any abnormal, sideways curvature of the spine that
usually occurs during the growth spurt just before puberty. However, adults can suffer from the condition
too, as a progression from scoliosis in childhood or as a result of spinal degeneration due to aging,
sometimes in association with conditions such as arthritis or osteoporosis which affect the spine.
Neuromuscular conditions such as cerebral palsy or muscular dystrophy can also result in abnormal
spine curves.
• Towards the side as a single curve to the left (shaped like the letter C, often called levoscoliosis)
• Towards the side as a single curve to the right (shaped like backwards letter C, called
dextroscoliosis)
• As two curves (shaped like the letter S)
Severe scoliosis can be disabling and can reduce the amount of space within the chest, making it difficult
for the lungs to function properly.
Symptoms
• Difficulty in breathing
• One hip higher than the other
• One shoulder blade appears more prominent than the other
• Uneven shoulders
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2. • Uneven waist
• Back pain
• Chronic fatigue and future spinal kyphosis (widow’s hump)
• Headaches
• Knee pain
• Leg and hip pain
• Menstrual-cycle disturbances
• A tendency to lean to one side
• A prominent ribcage
Treatment Methods
Surgery is usually recommended only to relieve symptoms due to an overly tilted or arthritic spine and if
the condition severely limits mobility. In most cases, the curvature of the spine can be managed without
surgery. In fact, professional rehabilitation centers offer effective non-invasive treatments for scoliosis.
• Physical therapy – This modality is often the first step in the treatment. The treatment helps
strengthen the muscles, alleviate aches and improve flexibility in the region around the back.
Strengthening and stretching exercises are prescribed to build muscle strength and restore
normal spine function. Physical therapy exercises also help patients improve posture and range
of motion.
• Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) – The TENS unit delivers low voltage
electric impulses to the affected area which interact with the sensory nervous system to block or
reduce muscle spasm and aches.
• Chiropractic care – Spinal manual manipulation can provides relief from short-term pain due to
scoliosis.
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3. In a professional healthcare center, firm diagnosis is ensured with x-ray images of the spine which will
reveal how severe the curvature is and where it occurs in the spine. Evaluation of the image will allow
the physician to provide the patient with a customized treatment plan to manage the condition.
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