A Precise and Gentle Treatment Method For Scoliosis

What is Scoliosis?

Scoliosis is a condition characterized by a curvature of the spine. The curve may be sideways, or there may be an S-shaped curve. And, the curve usually appears in children ages ten to fifteen, occurring during puberty. Some people go undiagnosed with scoliosis well into adulthood, or it may onset in adulthood due to other health conditions, such as cerebral palsy or muscular dystrophy.

In most cases, scoliosis is not a serious health issue. However, if untreated, it can cause discomfort, pain, or in more severe cases, cause serious spinal deformities.

Signs and Symptoms of Scoliosis

Usually, scoliosis is discovered in children during routine health exams, however, there are some warning signs parents can look for. The posture can be affected by the condition, and when standing straight it may appear as though one shoulder and one hip are higher than the other. The patient may also experience back discomfort.

In more severe cases, the curvature will be more pronounced. An extreme curve or a rotation of the spine may cause the body to look like it’s leaning, or the rib cage may appear to protrude when the patient is bending over. And, severe scoliosis can also contribute to breathing difficulties. 

Early detection and treatment of scoliosis is a patient’s best chance at slowing progression and preventing more serious complications.

How the Upper Cervical Spine Affects Scoliosis

Experts still do not know what causes scoliosis in up to 80% of patients, however, research has found that the condition may be linked to early trauma in the upper cervical spine. This part of the spine, which supports the head, is found in the neck and upper back. The vertebrae in this delicate area can become misaligned when children experience jolts or blows that are common when they play rough and tumble. Misalignments of the vertebrae can cause musculoskeletal imbalances, and these imbalances may result in scoliosis as children continue to grow and develop.

How Our Upper Cervical Treatment Works for Scoliosis

Dr. Elizabeth Hoefer of Well Connected Chiropractic is an expert in the Blair Chiropractic Technique. Unlike the sudden twists and cracks in traditional chiropractic methods, the Blair Chiropractic Technique utilizes minimal pressure and gentle realignments. This makes it a safe, drug-free, non-invasive treatment of scoliosis. 

The technique involves state-of-the-art 3D imaging technology to pinpoint the particular areas of concern and find the precise location of misalignments. Once detected, Dr. Hoefer will proceed with a series of manual manipulations to help bring the upper cervical spine back into proper alignment so that it can develop as nature intended. 

If scoliosis is preventing you or your child from living a full life, get in touch with Dr. Hoefer for an appointment today. Dr. Hoefer services patients in Orange County, including Anaheim, Rancho Santa Margarita, Dana Point, San Clemente, Costa Mesa, Huntington Beach, Irvine, Laguna Niguel, Mission Viejo, Newport Beach, and Santa Ana.