People are not two-dimensional . . . and neither is the neuromusculoskeletal condition of scoliosis that afflicts 4.5% to upwards of 10% of the population.
Traditional approaches to treat or halt scoliosis progression only consider a singular two-dimensional x-ray image . . . and traditional treatments usually only address the sideways or lateral curvature.
However, just as a person is three-dimensional, so is the coiling and spiraling nature of the scoliosis spine.
A recent article by Brett Diaz published in Dynamic Chiropractic discusses the three-dimensional model of the scoliosis spine.
When looking for a physician to treat you or a family member with scoliosis, inquire about their treatment approach. Ask questions to determine whether a physician considers a global approach to treating the spine, or whether the physician is focused purely on the lateral curvature. Questions to consider may be the following:
1) Do you only address the lateral curvature of the spine with treatment?
A physician who only views the spine two-dimensionally will not usually consider the role of the neck, pelvis, and three-dimensional curves of the spine.
Yet, one who looks at all the dimensions of the spine considers the pelvis, structural position of the neck, compression of the spine, gait pattern, rib de-rotation, position of the skull, dominant eye and posture analysis as well as lung capacity when evaluating and planning treatment for scoliosis.
2) What will you do to stabilize the hips and pelvis?
Many physicians will recommend a brace, but hard scoliosis braces seldom stabilize the hips and pelvis. More and more research supports the fact that hard braces don’t prevent scoliosis from progressing–rather, they can cause decreased pulmonary function (breathing), and possibly cause scoliosis to worsen with the addition of the psychological scars associated with body image.
Alternatively, a physician who addresses global patterns of change in a scoliosis spine will consider pelvic rotation–not just default to a shoe lift to correct a leg length discrepancy (which is usually due to a rotated pelvis). By stabilizing and strengthening a weak and shifted pelvis, the rest of the scoliosis spine has a stronger foundation from which to unwind and decompress from it’s curved position.
3) What will you do to address concerns in the neck or upper back?
Many physicians who only consider a two-dimensional approach to scoliosis choose not to address the neck or upper back when treating scoliosis.
In contrast, a physician who approaches the spine globally may look to the condition and structure of the neck, particularly the uppermost part, as one of the key components to stabilizing a weak scoliosis spine.
4) What types of exercises will you prescribe to help me correct my condition?
Traditionally, physicians or physical therapists will focus on core strengthening with scoliosis that may result in tight and sore muscles in the back–with possible risk of scoliosis progression.
However, in regard to scoliosis, core muscles and ligaments are asymmetrical in length, strength, and tone. Instead of focusing on overall core strength, the weak muscles need to be strengthened (asymmetrically), and the tight muscles need to be loosened (again, asymmetrically). Only then, can the spine reposition and realign for possible correction and reduction in scoliosis.
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Learn more about the three-step scoliosis treatment at Spinal Health & Wellness.
