Scoliosis is treated according to the results of a spinal exam.
How is Scoliosis Diagnosed?
How is scoliosis diagnosed? The condition is diagnosed through physical examination and special maneuvers such as the forward bend test and other exercises which measure leg strength and balance. Imaging tests, such as X-ray and CT Scan, may also be performed to specifically localize the curvature. A special equipment known as Scoliometer is used to measure the distortion of the torso. However, no test nor equipment has been designed yet to correctly predict the progression of the curvature.
One factor in diagnosing scoliosis is family history. If a family has more than one child that has scoliosis, then it is likely that another child will develop the condition as well. A lot of adolescents and pre-adolescents get scoliosis. On the subject of family history, there does seem to be a genetic component with scoliosis. There are some families that have recessive genes where it skips a generation, and some where each generation has some form of spinal curvature. Once diagnosed, there are a few different treatment options available, depending on the level of curvature as well as other factors.
Correcting Scoliosis
How is scoliosis corrected? The management of scoliosis requires the initial decision of treating or not treating the condition. Curvatures of less than 20 degrees does not require treatment while those with 25 degrees of deviation depends on the decision of the doctor and progression of the curve. Soft scoliosis bracing is indicated for moderate degrees of curving while surgery is the treatment of choice for severe conditions. A good thing to note is that surgery is only recommended very rarely. Spinal surgery is usually only done when the condition is degenerating. One thing that is good to know about scoliosis is that a great many patients do not experience any pain.
The decision in treating the deformity will not always be straight cut. The patient’s age, other medical conditions and personal choice must always be considered by the physician and the family in formulating a treatment plan for the patient. Ultimately, the decision rests in the hands of the patient as well as the physician. When a patient is diagnosed, they should sit down with their doctor and address all of their questions and concerns. That way, the patient not only gets the scoliosis treatment option that is right for their condition, it is the option that they can live with.
Pivonka Family Chiropractic
1355 S Higley Rd #102
Gilbert, AZ 85296
(480) 892-0022
https://correctscoliosis.com
