Two types of scoliosis
Scoliosis can be caused by a short leg pulling the spine into a curve — this is called functional scoliosis. A different type, idiopathic scoliosis, involves an actual structural curve in the spine and predominantly affects adolescent females.
Functional scoliosis may not cause any problems at all, though in some cases a heel lift can help level the pelvis. If you notice a spinal curve that disappears when your child sits down, that's often a sign of a short leg on one side rather than true scoliosis.
Checking at home
Idiopathic scoliosis needs to be monitored and treated appropriately, and it's important to keep an eye on prepubescent children, especially girls. One simple check is called Adam's test: stand behind your child and ask them to bend forward at the waist, knees straight, until their spine is horizontal to the floor. If you see one side of the ribs sitting higher than the other, that's most likely thoracic scoliosis.
Other signs to watch for include uneven shoulder heights while standing, and a difference in the gap between the waist and arms when comparing left and right sides. If anything looks concerning, your child should see an appropriate healthcare practitioner for a proper assessment.
When x-rays and bracing come in
Not all scoliotic curves progress, but if they do, it's important to catch them before the teenage growth spurt. Some children need an x-ray to assess this, and low-dose imaging facilities exist to keep radiation exposure to a minimum — occasionally repeat x-rays are needed to track the rate of progression. The Cobb angle is the measurement used to grade severity; an angle greater than 10 degrees is classified as scoliosis, and the higher the angle, the more pronounced the curve.
If a curve is progressing, devices such as the Boston Brace can help guide the spine through a growth spurt. In more advanced cases that aren't caught early enough, surgery involving spinal rods (Harrington rods) may be needed, usually left in permanently.
Where chiropractic care fits in
Chiropractic is not a substitute for bracing, and a chiropractor cannot fix scoliosis. What chiropractic care can do is ease pain and tension in the high-load areas of the spine that scoliosis creates, using gentle manipulation and exercises, and it can play a role in early detection as part of a broader management team alongside your GP or specialist.
Book an assessment
If you're noticing signs of a spinal curve in your child, or you're managing scoliosis yourself and want support with pain and tension, we're happy to have a look. Contact the clinic to book in.