Scoliosis
What is Scoliosis?
Scoliosis Explained
At Core Posture Chiropractic, located in Newport Beach, California, Dr. Tyler Meier, a leading chiropractor and scoliosis expert, is dedicated to helping patients understand and manage scoliosis. Whether you’re seeking relief, looking for answers, or want to learn more about this condition, we’re here to provide clarity and support.
What is Scoliosis?
Scoliosis is a medical condition characterized by an abnormal curvature of the spine, often resembling an “S” or “C” shape when viewed from the back. While a healthy spine runs straight down the middle of the back, a spine affected by scoliosis bends to the side. This curvature can range from mild to severe and, in some cases, may require medical intervention to prevent further progression.
Types of Scoliosis
Thoracic Scoliosis: This is a spinal deformity that causes the spine to curve sideways in the upper and middle back. It’s the most common type of scoliosis.
Lumbar: Lumbar scoliosis is a condition that causes an abnormal sideways curve in the lower spine, or lumbar area. It is characterized by a distinctive “C” shaped curve in the lower spine.
Double Curve: Double curve scoliosis, also known as S-curve scoliosis, is a type of scoliosis that causes the spine to have two curves that bend in opposite directions, forming the shape of an “S”.
Thoracolumbar: Thoracolumbar scoliosis is a type of scoliosis that causes a sideways curve in the spine where the upper and lower back meet.
What Causes Scoliosis?
Idiopathic Scoliosis: This is the most common form, and its cause is unknown, hence the term “idiopathic.” Research is ongoing to better understand the mechanisms behind this type of scoliosis. It most frequently occurs during growth spurts in adolescence.
Congenital Scoliosis: This type is present at birth and results from abnormal spinal development in the womb.
Neuromuscular Scoliosis: Caused by underlying conditions such as cerebral palsy or muscular dystrophy, which affect muscles and the ability to support the spine.
Degenerative Scoliosis: This occurs in adults, often as a result of disc degeneration, arthritis, or other age-related spinal changes.
Child vs. Adult Scoliosis
Childhood Scoliosis
Scoliosis can develop in infancy, childhood, or adolescence. It is most commonly diagnosed in adolescence during periods of rapid growth. Idiopathic scoliosis is the most common type in children and adolescents, with no identifiable cause. Although many cases are mild, severe cases may progress and lead to complications such as reduced lung capacity or chronic back pain.
Adult Scoliosis
In adults, scoliosis often develops due to the wear and tear on the spine over time, leading to degenerative changes. This type, known as adult degenerative scoliosis, is typically the result of the gradual breakdown of the intervertebral discs and joints. Adults may also have scoliosis that carried over from childhood or adolescence, which may or may not have been treated. Common symptoms in adults include back pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility, especially as the curvature progresses.
Causes of Scoliosis
While scoliosis can be caused by conditions such as cerebral palsy and muscular dystrophy, most cases are idiopathic—meaning the cause is unknown. Research into the genetic and environmental factors that lead to idiopathic scoliosis is ongoing, with the hope of identifying specific mechanisms in the future.
If you or your child are experiencing any of these symptoms, scheduling a consultation with Dr. Tyler Meier is an essential first step in determining the presence and extent of scoliosis.
