What is scoliosis?

Scoliosis is a lateral bending and/ or rotary deformation of the spine presenting as one or multiple curves in the back. It can be functional or structural.

If it is functional, then it is usually a compensatory pattern, possibly posture-related, and can be corrected with stretching, strengthening, joint manipulation, and postural retraining.

If it is structural then it is due to anatomical changes. There are wide varieties of structural scoliosis, but the most common one is Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis (AIS).

What is Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis?

Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis (AIS) is of unknown cause and usually happens during adolescence- age 10 to 18. It is more common in young girls and the progression usually slows down after the menstruation starts.

What is the treatment for AIS?

There are many different approaches to help prevent AIS progression and also possibly decrease its curve if it has a functional component.

It can be addressed with:

• Possible bracing depending on the severity of the curve
• Strengthening and stretching exercises to properly address the curvature
• Dynamic Neuromuscular Stabilisation
• Chiropractic treatment 
• Breathing exercises
• Soft tissue work

Below is an exercise that can help:

If you suspect that your child has a scoliosis contact the clinic for a consultation on 057 8678904.