Scoliosis is a condition that effects the curves in the spine. It can be confusing because our spines do have beautifully designed natural curves that allow for proper locomotion and dispersing the forces put on the body. However, when a spine has scoliosis there are curves in the spine that should not be there.
There are 2 types of scoliosis:
Anatomical & Functional
Anatomical scoliosis is defined as having a physical abnormality within the bones of the spine. Meaning that one or more vertebra are misshapen or missing part of it's structure. This forces the spine to curve due to having improper foundation. Much like if you are building a lego tower with square pieces. But then one piece is shaped like a triangle! This would force your lego tower to curve to the side.
Functional scoliosis is more common and is not due to improper vertebra shape. Unfortunately the cause is still not known as to why the spine will create these extra curves. There may be a genetic component, or severe muscular imbalances that pull unevenly on the spine over time. Many spine experts theorize that scoliosis is the body's way of decreasing tension on the spinal cord stemming from the birth process. Remember that the spinal cord is the freeway for nerve signals to travel within the spine. The cord attaches itself to the bony spine with small ligaments. During birth, it is very common to have misalignments occur within the spine. These misalignments, whether big or small, tug and pull on the ligaments, which then strain the cord. In an effort to decrease that strain, the body shortens the cord by putting in these curves. This idea solidifies the need for newborns to be adjusted after birth! If there is no strain on the spinal cord, there is no need for the spine to change it's shape.
Frequently scoliosis is diagnosed in the early teenage years. This is mainly due to the massive increase in growth experienced during this time. During these pivotal "growth spurts", extra stain on the spine forces the muscles to adapt and develop around that strain. This is when we start to see physical changes in the teenage body more easily and a diagnoses of scoliosis can be made.
Signs of Scoliosis:
The point is, that scoliosis can lead to early degenerative changes in the spine (arthritis), numerous muscular symptoms, and if advanced enough, can cause trouble with the internal organs such as the lungs.
Scoliosis changes many aspects of health. If you have children, check them early and often for signs of scoliosis. The earlier you detect it, the easier it is to mitigate permanent physical damage. Come see our experts at Thrive Family Chiropractic today!
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Serving the communities of Huntington Beach, Seal Beach, Westminster, Fountain Valley, Costa Mesa, Irvine, Newport Beach, Garden Grove, Santa Ana
Thrive Family Chiropractic
18141 Beach Blvd Ste 150, Huntington Beach, California 92648