The medical condition known as scoliosis refers to an abnormal spinal curvature. Instead of the spine curving back and forth, with scoliosis, the spine’s twisting creates a sideways ‘S’ or ‘C’ shape. Scoliosis can lead to various symptoms, depending on the severity of the condition. So, if you live/work in the greater area of State College, PA, Dr. Renee Gehrig and her team of professionals at Gehrig Family Chiropractic Center offer effective noninvasive treatment options for scoliosis patients’ symptoms.
Scoliosis can potentially affect anyone at any age. However, the condition is usually more common for girls, developing during their adolescent years. The condition’s severity varies greatly – with some cases successfully managed through noninvasive treatment options.
The exact cause of scoliosis remains unknown; however, the condition is often associated with genetic factors or specific neuromuscular or underlying medical afflictions that may include –
- Cerebral Palsy.
- Muscular Dystrophy.
The Symptoms of Scoliosis
The following are the most common scoliosis symptoms:
- Uneven Shoulders, Waist, or Rib Cage
One shoulder may be higher, or a shoulder blade may be more pronounced.
- The Head is Not Centered
The head may be off-center or shifted to one side.
- Back Pain
Some people experience back pain, although this is not necessarily the case in all situations.
- Reduced Mobility
Severe scoliosis can potentially reduce mobility and make it challenging to perform simple activities.
- Muscle Weakness & Fatigue
Symptoms that characterize a more severe scoliosis condition include –
- Digestive Issues – created by pressure on the intestines/stomach.
- Breathing Issues – caused by a compromised lung function.
Chiropractic Treatments for Scoliosis
Chiropractors offer a combination of techniques that can help improve the spine’s alignment, which can help to reduce discomfort, stiffness, and pain. These may include:
- Spinal Adjustments – gentle manual manipulation adjusts the spine’s vertebrae and alignment.
- Electric Muscle Stimulation – electrical currents stimulate muscles, reducing discomfort and pain.
- Therapeutic Exercises & Stretching - can improve mobility, circulation, balance, coordination, and more.
- Therapeutic Ultrasound – high-frequency sound encourages blood flow and reduces inflammation while lessening stiffness, muscle spasms, and pain.
In addition, Dr. Gehrig can offer lifestyle modification guidance to help better manage the condition and its symptoms. These include –
- Trying to improve your posture.
- Maintaining an appropriate, healthy weight for your height.
- Avoiding those activities which may cause the condition to become worse, and more.
Reach Out to a Leading Chiropractor in State College PA
If you would like additional information regarding treatment options for scoliosis, please contact Dr. Gehrig or her professional staff at 814-231-0717 or our office online. At Gehrig Chiropractic Center, we look forward to creating a personalized plan to help best manage scoliosis symptoms.