Scoliosis is a sideways curve of the spine, and it impacts an estimated 6% to 9% of the United States population. This spinal condition most commonly develops during the growth spurt right before puberty. However, scoliosis can also start to develop in adulthood as a result of wear and tear on the spine.
Common Symptoms of Scoliosis in Kids
In kids, most cases of scoliosis are idiopathic, meaning that there isn’t a clear cause. The condition also often causes no pain in kids, so it’s often identified by pediatricians during routine check-ups.
Common signs and symptoms of scoliosis in kids include:
- The head doesn’t appear centered with the body
- One-shoulder is higher than the other
- One hip being higher than the other
- Ribs protruding from the body
- The two sides of the back are at different heights when the child bends forward
- The arms don’t hang straight beside the body when the child stands up straight
Common Symptoms of Scoliosis in Adults
Scoliosis that occurs in adulthood occurs as the spinal discs start to degenerate. As these discs wear down, they begin to tilt sideways, causing a curve in the spine that’s known as scoliosis. Most adults that develop scoliosis experience back pain as the first and most pronounced symptom. However, as the spine curves, it can lead to pressure on the nerves near the spine, leading to numbness or weakness in the legs.
Other symptoms of scoliosis in adulthood include:
- Difficulty standing up straight
- Difficulty walking
- Fatigue
- Becoming shorter in height
- A bump in the lower back
- One-shoulder being higher than the other
- One hip is higher than the other
- Shortness of breath
PT and Chiropractic Care For Scoliosis
In many cases, physical therapy and chiropractic care can be used to manage symptoms of scoliosis without prescription medications or invasive procedures. By strengthening the muscles that support the spine, increasing range of motion, and relieving pressure on the nerves near the spine, these non-invasive treatment methods can greatly benefit kids and adults with scoliosis.
For physical therapy and/or chiropractic care for scoliosis, schedule an appointment at Florida Injury & Wellness Center today.
