Treatment for Scoliosis

Scoliosis is also known as curvature of the spine. There is really no known cause of most cases; a few occur due to a congenital defect. Currently only two per cent of women are afflicted and half a percent of men. Treatment for scoliosis comes in many forms. These include: exercise, chiropractic manipulation, nutrition, and medication. There currently is not much evidence that these are an efficient treatment of scoliosis, but there are many people who claim that holistic scoliosis treatment has helped them. They can’t hurt and will produce other benefits as well.

Options

Besides natural methods of scoliosis treatment, you have basically three options: do nothing, wear a brace, and have surgery. The first option of doing nothing may be reasonable in a few cases. For example, it the person has reached their full growth and the curve of the spine is not too serious (below 40 degrees) than it probably will not curve anymore and the person can still lead a normal life without receiving scoliosis treatment. Still, have it monitored regularly so if the curve begins to grow you can take action. However, a child or teenager who has the problem cannot afford to do nothing. It will only get worse and must be corrected as soon as possible.

Wearing a brace

The second treatment of scoliosis is wearing a brace. This is a great option for children and adolescents that have mild scoliosis and wish to prevent the problem from worsening. A brace will not correct the problem, but it does decrease the growth of the spinal curve by a good 90 percent. If the rate of growth is decreased during this time in the person’s life, they may be able to prevent getting surgery treatment for scoliosis.

Surgery

Surgery is the main method of treatment for scoliosis. This is usually used for teens or pre-teens that have a curve of 40 degrees or more. Surgery is a serious option not to be taken lightly. There are steel rods and screws used in order to correct the spine. There are three basic types of curves, each requiring a different form of surgery to correct. Not all surgeons have the same methods, however.

For additional treatment for scoliosis, see a chiropractor as they will be able to manipulate the spine and may have exercises that they can recommend. Many people believe that chiropractic can help decrease spine curvature and alleviate pain and discomfort.