Scoliosis

Current and Long-Term Symptoms of Scoliosis

At Core Posture Chiropractic, Dr. Tyler Meier, a highly experienced chiropractor and scoliosis expert in Newport Beach, is dedicated to educating patients about scoliosis and its impact on long-term health. Understanding the current and potential long-term symptoms of scoliosis is critical for effective management. Whether you’ve just been diagnosed or are concerned about the progression of your scoliosis, Dr. Meier and his team offer personalized care to help improve your quality of life.

Current Symptoms

In the early stages of scoliosis, the symptoms may be subtle or go unnoticed, particularly in children and adolescents. However, as the condition progresses, patients may experience a variety of physical signs.

One shoulder may sit higher than the other, creating an asymmetrical appearance.
A noticeable curve may form, making one side of the back more prominent than the other.
One hip may be higher, causing an imbalanced posture.
One shoulder blade may stick out more than the other.
You may feel like you’re leaning or tilting to one side.
Your clothes may fit unevenly, highlighting changes in posture.
While scoliosis is often painless in children, some individuals may experience mild to moderate back pain. Adults with scoliosis, particularly degenerative scoliosis, experience more discomfort.
The unevenness caused by scoliosis can lead to muscle fatigue as certain muscles overcompensate for the imbalance.
A curved spine can make it difficult to move freely or comfortably, particularly when bending or twisting.

Long-Term Symptoms of Scoliosis

Without proper care and management, scoliosis can lead to long-term symptoms and complications that may affect overall health and quality of life. For patients with moderate to severe curvature, the condition can worsen over time, particularly in adulthood. Here are some long-term symptoms that scoliosis can cause if left untreated:

Chronic Pain and Discomfort

Persistent Back Pain: As scoliosis progresses, it can lead to chronic back pain due to increased strain on the muscles, ligaments, and joints. This is especially common in adults who develop degenerative scoliosis later in life.

Nerve Pain: In more severe cases, scoliosis can compress nerves, leading to pain, numbness, or tingling in the legs, feet, or other areas.

Breathing and Cardiovascular Issues

Reduced Lung Function: In cases where the spinal curvature is severe, the rib cage may press against the lungs, restricting lung capacity and making it difficult to breathe deeply. This can lead to reduced endurance and difficulty with physical activity.

Cardiovascular Strain: In rare cases, severe scoliosis can also affect the heart by compressing the chest cavity, leading to cardiovascular issues such as increased strain on the heart and decreased overall function.

Postural Issues and Mobility Limitations

Permanent Postural Changes: Over time, scoliosis can lead to permanent postural imbalances, such as uneven shoulders, hips, and a visible curve in the spine. This may affect your ability to sit, stand, or walk comfortably.

Limited Mobility: Severe scoliosis may restrict flexibility and make everyday activities more difficult. Long-term mobility issues can result from both the spinal curve and the associated muscle imbalances.

Mental Health and Social Impact

Self-Image Concerns: For some patients, scoliosis can affect body image and self-confidence due to the visible curvature of the spine and uneven posture.

Reduced Quality of Life: Chronic pain, discomfort, and physical limitations caused by scoliosis can negatively impact your overall quality of life, making it harder to engage in activities or maintain an active lifestyle.

Early Detection and Long-Term Management

The earlier scoliosis is detected, the more effectively it can be managed. At Core Posture Chiropractic, Dr. Tyler Meier offers expert diagnostic services to identify scoliosis early and develop customized treatment plans to help manage symptoms and prevent long-term complications. Our approach emphasizes non-invasive care, including: