How to Get Rid of Scoliosis?
In simple terms, scoliosis is a curvature of the spine that is not normal. Human beings have spines (backbones) made up of small bone sections called vertebrae. When these are healthy and fit together well, the spine supports the weight of the body and remains flexible, allowing comfortable movement. A healthy spine curves gently. Human beings are not meant to stand perfectly straight because a healthy, flexible spine has this natural curve.
A person suffering from scoliosis has a spine that curves unnaturally, to the point that the rib cage, hips and shoulders are held at the wrong angle. The condition can progress beyond discomfort and become painful.
Early, Temporary Steps
It’s important for family members and the scoliosis sufferer to realize that treatment methods depend entirely on the severity of the condition. If the abnormal curvature is very slight and does not cause serious problems it may be necessary to try braces or gentle chiropractic manipulation. When patients consult with a doctor they should probably have a few numbers in mind. If the unnatural curve of the spine is less than 20 degrees, many doctors will recommend monitoring the condition very closely.
When the curvature has progressed to the 25 – 40 degree range (from normal) specific treatment may be necessary. It is also important to consider the age of the person. Careful treatment should be considered for younger children, as abnormal curving is less likely to progress in older persons.
Advanced Techniques
Some people who suffer from scoliosis can be helped by braces designed specifically for their individual condition. This is generally recommended for children and young people whose bodies are still growing. This can help correct scoliosis over a period of time if the unnatural angle/curve of the spine is not too pronounced. For those who have a curvature or angle of 50 degrees (considered extreme) it may be necessary to result to surgery. Research records indicate that scoliosis in adults doesn’t reach this extreme very often.
If movement is extremely limited or pain is severe surgery may be necessary to provide relief and to prevent future problems with the nervous system. Surgery most often involves vertebrae fusion, with method varying from one individual to another. Doctors have also started to use a method that implants a titanium rib that can be expanded to correct severely deformed cases. This allows for adjustment as a child is growing. In recent years, doctors have tried stapling of the vertebrae (to stabilize the spine and slow the abnormal curvature).
In summary, curvature that is very small should be monitored and may be treated with gentle manipulation to relieve discomfort. Braces may be used to keep the condition from progressing. If the curvature is severe and life-threatening, especially in adults, it may be necessary to choose surgery to physically correct the abnormal curve. Doctors have found that surgery techniques have progressed to the point that they are universally considered reliable and effective. Each scoliosis case should be considered unique.
Category: Health, Human Body