In addition to scoliosis bracing and observation, another treatment option is surgery.
Scoliosis Bracing vs Surgery
Scoliosis bracing, whenever possible is a better, non-invasive scoliosis treatment option. However, sometimes, it isn’t enough. In severe cases, a doctor may recommend surgery for scoliosis. This is a treatment option used in mature spines where the curve is greater than 45 degrees or a spinal curve that has not responded to bracing.
The goal of surgery is to prevent the curve from becoming larger and also to correct spinal deformities. A doctor will often use screws, rods, and connectors to correct spinal alignment. This procedure may limit movement, but should be considered in severe cases. The best doctor to contact is a chiropractor that specializes in scoliosis treatment.
Alternative Scoliosis Treatment Options
There are alternative scoliosis treatment options available for scoliosis, but very few of them have shown significant benefits. Physical therapy may be beneficial when used at the same time as traditional treatments. A physical therapist can design an exercise program to help individuals look straighter and breathe better. However, studies have not shown that physical therapy is useful by itself in preventing the spinal curve from increasing.
Acupuncture, massage, pilates, and yoga have also been promoted as alternative treatments. Acupuncture may help with pain or discomfort in some cases, but it has not been proven to be beneficial at treating scoliosis. Massage can be very beneficial at relieving the pain caused by scoliosis. There are many techniques of massage used. A doctor may recommend a trained massage therapist but, if not, be sure to seek out a licensed massage therapist for relief.
Pilates is a series of movements used to strengthen muscles in a low-stress manner. This may be beneficial by strengthening muscles which support the spinal column. However, pilates has not been shown to prevent curves from becoming larger. It may provide some relief and be used with bracing or other therapies. Yoga is intended to provide benefits by improving muscles through stretching and breathing exercises. Those with back pain from scoliosis have noted benefits but have not seen their condition improve through yoga alone.
Choosing Scoliosis Treatment Options
Many people are diagnosed with scoliosis today and it is a condition which has been studied extensively. These are the primary treatments available and each has benefits, depending on a number of factors. People live full, happy lives with the appropriate treatment and face few limitations because of their condition. If considering treatment options, use this guide to learn more about what is available and which option may be the best choice.
One of them? Soft scoliosis bracing.
Read our next article here.
Pivonka Family Chiropractic
1355 S Higley Rd #102
Gilbert, AZ 85296
(480) 892-0022
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