Scoliosis
Lateral curvature of the spine that can drive pain, muscle imbalance, and postural changes.
Scoliosis is a three-dimensional rotational curvature of the spine measuring greater than 10° on standing X-ray (Cobb angle). Adolescent idiopathic scoliosis affects roughly 2–3% of adolescents, with most curves remaining small and non-progressive. In adults, degenerative ('de novo') scoliosis develops with age-related disc and facet changes and is increasingly common after age 50, affecting up to 30% of adults over 60.
Many smaller curves cause no symptoms at all. When symptoms occur, they typically include visible postural asymmetry (uneven shoulders, hips, or rib prominence), muscle fatigue with prolonged standing, low back or mid-back pain, and stiffness localized to the concave side of the curve. Larger or progressive curves can affect breathing mechanics and contribute to nerve irritation.
Adolescent idiopathic scoliosis is most common in girls aged 10–15 during growth spurts. Adult degenerative scoliosis affects men and women equally and increases with age. Adults who had untreated adolescent scoliosis often re-present in their 30s–50s as the curve loads degenerate.
A combined, root-cause approach.
Chiropractic care cannot reverse a structural curve, but a 2014 review in the Journal of Children's Orthopaedics and ongoing work on Schroth-style scoliosis-specific exercise show that manual therapy, postural training, and targeted strengthening meaningfully improve pain, function, and quality of life. We restore motion in the segments above, below, and within the curve, release the asymmetrically tight muscles driving compensation, and prescribe scoliosis-aware strengthening so you can stay active and comfortable in the spine you have.
- Adjustments and mobilization
- ART for asymmetric tight muscles
- Postural and core rehab
- Activity modification
Related Conditions
View all →Low Back Pain
Aching, stiffness, or sharp pain in the lumbar spine that limits bending, sitting, or standing.
Neck Pain
Stiffness, soreness, or limited range of motion in the cervical spine, often from posture or strain.
Sciatica
Pain, tingling, or numbness that travels from the low back through the glute and down the leg.