Scoliosis in children and young adults is a common spinal deformity that affects both males and females. 

Derived from Ancient Greek meaning ‘Bent or Curved’, Scoliosis occurs when the spine curves to the side. It can lead to postural changes, discomfort, long-term degeneration and, in severe cases, issues with lungs and the heart can also occur. But, if Scoliosis is discovered and managed early, progression of the curvature and associated symptoms can be alleviated or even avoided.

In young children, it is actually more common in boys than girls. However, past the age of 10, Scoliosis is far more common in girls. In adolescence, girls are up to eight times more likely than boys to develop Idiopathic Scoliosis.

‘About 1 in 15 Australian girls develop some scoliosis during their growing period between 9 to 14 years, usually a year before they start menstruating.  Scoliosis is less common in boys, and commonly develops a year before puberty.’ Orthopaedics SA

There are Four Types of Scoliosis

Infantile Scoliosis

Occurs in children younger than 4 years old and curvature tends to develop around 6 months of age. Infantile idiopathic scoliosis is a rare condition, but it is more common in boys. In most cases early diagnosis and treatment has long lasting results.

Juvenile Scoliosis

Occurs in ages 4-10 years old. This type of Scoliosis is also rare in Australia.

Both Infantile and Juvenile Scoliosis progress rapidly and may require intensive management and treatment.

Adolescent Scoliosis

Diagnosed between 10 years old to young adulthood, this type of scoliosis is the most common.

Appearing in early adolescence, this is much more common in girls than boys. While very small curves occur in both sexes, the ratio of girls needing treatment spikes to around one in eight. Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis in girls accounts for about 90% of Scoliosis seen by clinicians.

Adult Scoliosis

There are two subgroups of Adult Scoliosis:

• Adolescent Scoliosis in Adult (ASA) – first appears during teenage years
• Degenerative De-Novo Scoliosis (DDS) – degenerative scoliotic curves that appear in middle aged adults over 45 years old, due to degeneration of the spine.

Scoliosis, Uneven Shoulders, Prominent Shoulder Blade, Spinal Curve, Uneven Hips.

Chiropractic can assist physical changes, discomfort and degeneration caused by Scoliosis.

Causes of Scoliosis

Most Scoliosis cases are considered to be idiopathic – there is no known cause. Other cases are caused by:

• a genetic link
• progressive spinal degeneration
• neuromuscular conditions such as cerebral palsy or muscular dystrophy.

Management of Scoliosis

Treatment and management depend on the degree of the curve.

• If the curvature is small, conservative physical therapy such as chiropractic, exercises and postural advice is beneficial.
• If the curvature is moderate or progressive, bracing may also be required.
• In severe cases, surgery may be considered to avoid vital organ involvement.

If you are concerned that you, or your child, are displaying symptoms of Scoliosis, help is at hand. Chiropractic care can assist with diagnosis, management, and treatment.

Concerned about Scoliosis? We welcome you to visit us as Connect Chiropractic for a posture and spinal assessment.