Scoliosis is a medical condition that refers to the development of the spine and abnormal curvature. Scoliosis could have an S-shaped curve with two distinct curves in the spine, or it could have a C-shaped curve where there is a single distinct curve.
At Physiotherapy First in Brampton, we offer scoliosis treatments at our wellness centre to help children, tweens, and teens with this condition.
There are two general types of scoliosis – nonstructural (functional) and structural. With nonstructural scoliosis, the spine functions normally, yet it is curved. The curvature can potentially be corrected if this type of scoliosis is diagnosed early enough.
With structural scoliosis, the spine is more rigid and fixed to the point that it can only be treated. For more severe cases, spinal fusion surgery may be an option to prevent structural scoliosis from worsening.
There are no underlying causes that determine whether someone will develop scoliosis or not. Some research studies have suggested that one cause could be hereditary factors if the condition is present in other family members.
Scoliosis develops during the development and growth of the spine at three different stages of development. Infantile scoliosis affects babies and toddlers from birth to age three.
Juvenile scoliosis refers to children between the ages of four and nine. Adolescent scoliosis relates to children aged ten and older. Adolescent scoliosis is more common as it starts when a child enters puberty and experiences growth spurts during this time.
Adults are not at risk of the condition developing and do not develop scoliosis. However, adults could show signs of scoliosis as they get older if they had slight to mild scoliosis as a child or teen that was never diagnosed.
As the spine develops and begins to curve, there are some noticeable symptoms parents need to be aware of as follows:
As the condition progresses, other symptoms that could develop are back pain and difficulty breathing. Potential damage to the lung and heart can occur in severe cases.
Scoliosis is diagnosed through a visual examination by looking for symptoms as the patient bends forward. Your osteopath, physiotherapist, or chiropractor may also feel along the spinal column to determine whether there are signs of curvature developing.
X-rays can be taken if needed but are often not used to limit radiation exposure to developing children. An MRI may be prescribed if there are signs of nervous system problems, suspected tumors, or infection.
There are several common treatments used depending on the type of scoliosis being treated, which can include:
The healthcare providers at Physiotherapy First will work with you and your child to determine what types of treatment will work best for their scoliosis. Treatment plans are tailored to the patient’s needs. We encourage parents and children to ask questions about their scoliosis and participate in making decisions about what treatments could be most beneficial.
The primary objective of scoliosis treatments is to prevent the condition from worsening while helping to improve posture, reduce back pain, increase back strength, and improve the patient’s overall quality of life.
If scoliosis is diagnosed early enough and with the right treatments, it could go away once your child experiences growth spurts. Sometimes assistance is required using bracing and other treatment methods.
Many health benefits plans often cover scoliosis treatments. We would be happy to discuss your insurance options in greater detail when you call to schedule an initial consultation.
To find out more about scoliosis treatments in Brampton and book a consultation appointment, please feel free to contact Physiotherapy First at 905-796-6662 today! We look forward to speaking with you, answering your questions about scoliosis, and helping to alleviate any pain or discomfort your child is experiencing as quickly as possible.
We provide access to highly educated health professionals at our Brampton wellness centre who have been educated and trained in the most effective methods for treating scoliosis. Our health professionals also receive ongoing education and training to provide our patients with the most recent advances in scoliosis treatments.
Physiotherapy First is a dynamic multidisciplinary centre that works closely with your family Doctor and other healthcare professionals to provide the most complete, up-to-date rehabilitation science and service for you and your family.
Copyright © 2024 Physiotherapy First. All rights reserved.
