Scoliosis Treatment in Lincoln, NE

Scoliosis Specialist

Scoliosis is a medical condition characterized by an abnormal curvature of the spine. It can affect people of all ages, but it typically develops during childhood or adolescence. The condition can cause the spine to curve in a sideways direction, resulting in an S or C-shaped curve. Scoliosis can vary in severity, with some cases causing mild discomfort while others can lead to significant physical deformity and even respiratory problems. This article by our Lincoln, NE chiropractic practice on chiropractic care can help you to understand more about Scoliosis. In Lincoln, if you have scoliosis, contact us today at our Novo Chiropractic Lincoln. Dr. Shane Davidson DC, a well-known scoliosis specialist, can help you manage your condition and provide relief from the symptoms of scoliosis.

Symptoms Of Scoliosis

Scoliosis includes a variety of symptoms that may occur individually or together in any combination. These symptoms include:

  • Unmanageable pain in the lower back
  • Knee or hip pain that makes it difficult to walk
  • Pain or numbness in legs, feet, or toes
  • Uneven shoulders or waist
  • A shoulder blade that protrudes more than the other
  • Hips that are not the same height
  • A visible curvature in the spine
  • Fatigue and Lower back hump
  • Inability to stand up straight and Difficulty in walking
  • Shortness of breath upon an activity or at rest

Causes Of Scoliosis

It is not always known why scoliosis develops, but there are some common causes for the condition, including:

  • In rare cases, neuromuscular conditions muscular dystrophy or cerebral palsy might lead to scoliosis
  • Physical deformities at birth
  • Spinal injuries or infections can increase the risk of scoliosis
  • Recurrent muscle spasms around the spine may lead to scoliosis
  • A variety of birth defects can increase the likelihood that scoliosis will develop in children
  • Unknown causes, which makes up the majority of cases

Types Of Scoliosis

There are two types of structural scoliosis. 

  • Congenital ScoliosisThis condition develops before a child is even born and is present at birth. School physicals often detect it. In rare cases, surgery is required.
  • Acquired ScoliosisThis is also known as habitual scoliosis and is caused by injury or consistent and repetitive motion that causes a curvature in the spine. Acquired scoliosis can be reversed.

Long Term Problems Due To Ignoring Scoliosis

If scoliosis is left untreated, many long-term problems can occur:

  • Limited range of motion across the entire body but specifically in the spine
  • Herniated discs
  • Rarely, lung and heart damage due to rib cage constantly putting pressure on the organs
  • Chronic back pain
  • Lowered self-esteem due to abnormal physical appearance

Temporary Pain Relief

Temporary pain relief can be provided by:

  • Ice packs applied to the affected area
  • OTC Painkillers such as ibuprofen or aspirin
  • Prescription painkillers for severe pain
  • Exercises to stretch and strengthen back muscles
  • Spinal injections of steroids or anesthetics and a Back brace

Scoliosis Treatment In Lincoln, NE

If you are seeking scoliosis treatment, there are several options, including non-surgical treatment to relieve the symptoms of scoliosis. Some of these include:

  • Spinal adjustments/manipulation
  • Deep tissue massage
  •  
  • Physical therapy
  • Stretches that loosen the muscles around the spine
  • Strengthening exercises such as lifting
  • Posture exercises
  • Yoga for whole-body and breathing solutions
  •  
  • Bone grafting – taking bone from the patient’s hip or from a cadaver and grafting it to help promote faster healing in the affected vertebrae
  • Spinal fusion – vertebrae are realigned and fused together to reduce or eliminate the curve in the spine
  • Spinal reconstructio
  • Spinal decompression surgery
  •  

Scoliosis Treatment In Chiropractic Care

Typically, scoliosis begins as a minor bend in the spine that gradually progresses. In fact, for the diagnosis of scoliosis to be made, there must be a minimum 60-degree sideways curve of the spine. Once the spine has advanced to this stage, there are often severe health consequences. The good news is that if the bending of the spine is discovered and cared for properly during its early stages, it can be prevented from advancing over time.

Our doctors at Novo Chiropractic Lincoln have the resources and experience to provide you with the most appropriate care and, as a result, eliminate the need for more invasive and aggressive treatments. To accomplish this, our office will perform a full health history to identify any factors that could be contributing to the presence of scoliosis. Often occupational factors, lifestyle habits, previous traumas, and recreational activities are at the roots of the problem. An x-ray examination is the most effective means of detecting scoliosis. However, various orthopedic examinations such as the Adams position test can assist in the diagnosis. Our chiropractors will also examine the hips and shoulders for un-leveling and also check the legs for variation in length, which can be a clue to the development of scoliosis.

After these factors have been considered, our chiropractors will perform specific spinal adjustments to reverse the body’s compensations and assist in the restoration process. If you have any questions regarding scoliosis or chiropractic care, please call Novo Chiropractic Lincoln to schedule an appointment as soon as possible.

Book An Appointment

Request an appointment online by calling us on (402) 817-7373

You can also use the online booking tool below.

Frequently Asked Questions About Scoliosis

Are Chiropractors good for scoliosis?

Chiropractors are highly trained professionals who have plenty of experience in treating scoliosis. While you may need to see other doctors, chiropractic care can help with pain management and  provide many benefits for the overall health of your spine.

Is gymnastics bad for scoliosis?

Gymnastics can cause scoliosis to progress due to the repetitive extending motions of the spine. It is best to consult with your chiropractor about performing exaggerated backbends and extensions. Often chiropractors will suggest modified techniques if you wish to participate in gymnastics. 

Is scoliosis a neurological condition?

Most types of scoliosis are not neurological conditions, including those caused by injury or physical deformities. However, some rare cases of scoliosis are caused by neuromuscular conditions such as cerebral palsy or muscular dystrophy, and these are considered neurological. 

Does scoliosis worsen with age?

The progression of scoliosis over time will depend on the severity of your condition. If you have significant curves (over 50 degrees) in your spine, your condition will likely worsen as you get older if you don’t treat it. Those with minor curves may not experience any progression of the disease. 

In some cases, depending on the location of the spinal curvature, scoliosis can make it difficult to breathe. Your rib cages can push against your heart and lungs, causing shortness of breath and depleting your oxygen levels.

What does scoliosis pain feel like?

Scoliosis pain can come in many forms. You will likely experience some pain in your lower back, but it is also common to have pain in your legs and feet. Severe cases that cause your ribs to press on your organs can also lead to chest and lung pain, as well as stiffness throughout your body. 

Can scoliosis affect bowel movements?

In rare but severe cases, scoliosis can affect your bowels. Your intestines may become blocked, leading to constipation depending on the curvature of your spine and its location.

Doesn’t a Lack of Calcium Cause scoliosis?

While low calcium levels don’t directly cause scoliosis, they are often seen as a contributing factor. A lack of calcium is linked to low bone density and strength, and patients with scoliosis often have both of these. Low calcium alone doesn’t cause scoliosis, but it can make it worse.  

Isn’t a Certain Amount of Sideways Curvature Normal?

Everybody has some natural curves in their spine, so, usually, sideways curvature might exist in your back. However, if this curvature takes an S or C shape or an exaggerated shape, it isn’t considered normal. Any curvature that negatively affects your everyday life is not normal.

Do Heavy Back-Packs Cause Scoliosis?

Heavy backpacks do not usually lead to scoliosis, but if you are consistently lugging around a bag that is too heavy for you, you might be affected by acquired scoliosis. This is usually a less severe form of the condition and is reversible for most people. 

What organs are affected by Scoliosis?

Scoliosis can affect many different organs based on the location of the curvature. Your heart and lungs can be compressed by constant pressure from your rib cage, and your intestines and stomach can also suffer from this. It can also put stress on your brain and nervous system. Chiropractic treatment can help alleviate some of these issues. 

Can Scoliosis affect your height?

The spinal curvature caused by scoliosis can make you appear shorter than you are, and the constant pressure on your vertebrae can also negatively affect your height. Mild scoliosis may not have much effect on your height, but severe cases can take several inches off. 

Does Medical Insurance Cover Scoliosis Treatment?

Every insurance plan is different, but there is a good chance that your medical insurance will cover your scoliosis treatment. Check with your provider to ensure that you will be covered and doctors are within your network.

Content Reviewed By

Dr. Shane Davidson Lincoln, NE Chiropractor
Doctor of Chiropractic
Author