Scoliosis is a spinal condition that usually occurs in children and teenagers. However, adults may also be diagnosed with scoliosis. This usually occurs when a curve in the adult’s spine (which has existed during their youth) gets progressively worse over time. Alternatively, it may be due to osteoporosis or degenerative changes in the spine. Those with this condition have either a ‘C’ or ‘S’-shaped curve in their spine.
An Overview Of Scoliosis
Our spine has three natural curves – they are located in the cervical spine in our neck (lordosis), the thoracic spine from the base of the neck to the lower back (kyphosis), and the lumbar spine in the lower back to the tip of the coccyx (lordosis). The curves in a healthy spine run anterior and posterior to the body. Conversely, for those with scoliosis, the spine curves laterally.
There are various types of scoliosis and causes for spinal curvature. The four main types of scoliosis are as followed:
1. Idiopathic scoliosis is the most common form of scoliosis. When a patient’s scoliosis is referred to as idiopathic scoliosis, it means that the cause is unknown. This condition is usually found in the following age groups – infantile (younger than 3 years old), juvenile (3 to 10 years old), and adolescent (older than 10 years old).
2. Congenital scoliosis occurs due to congenital birth defects in the spine. This condition is often associated with other organ defects.
3. Neuromuscular scoliosis happens due to a loss of control of the muscles or nerves that support the patient’s spine. Cerebral palsy and muscular dystrophy are common causes of this type of scoliosis.
4. Degenerative scoliosis may be caused by arthritis in the joints that link them or degeneration of the patient’s discs, which separate the vertebrae. Unlike the first three types of scoliosis, which are usually present in childhood, degenerative scoliosis occurs later in life.
Symptoms of Scoliosis
So how do you tell whether someone has scoliosis? Well, it is vital to note that all cases of scoliosis are unique to the individual. However, there remain several tell-tale signs. These symptoms include but are not limited to
- ‘S’-shaped curve in the back when standing;
- A tilt in the waistline;
- One shoulder appears higher than the other;
- The body curves to one side when viewed from the front or back;
- For female patients, one breast may appear higher than the other.
If you notice such symptoms, please do not hesitate to seek advice from our team of professionals.
How Osteopathy Can Help With Scoliosis
Our osteopath’s approach to treatment varies depending on the degree to which the spinal curvature affects the patient’s life or whether the condition is worsening. In cases of functional scoliosis, where the spine curvature is not caused by structural abnormalities or spinal complications, our osteopath may recommend corrective exercise and manual therapy to resolve the issue.
Patients will receive instructions for the personalised exercises and stretches they can do at home. These may include:
- Gentle hip extension;
- Gentle spinal mobilisations and extension;
- Standing hamstring stretches;
- The cat/cow stretch;
- The pelvic tilt.
However, if the problem stems from structural scoliosis – i.e. the four types of scoliosis covered above – our osteopath may recommend distributing the workload throughout the spine and away from the problem area so that the patient feels more comfortable. The aim is to allow the rest of the patient’s body to accommodate the workload, thus easing the pressure on the spine.
It is essential to note that structural scoliosis cannot be fully cured and requires life-long management. In such cases, patients may benefit from regular osteopathy treatment to keep themselves comfortable. Our osteopath will also provide tips and exercises to help manage the pain and condition.
If you are diagnosed with scoliosis and would like to seek a reliable osteopathy clinic to help manage your condition, look no further than Orchard Health Clinic. As the best osteopath in Singapore, our team takes a holistic approach to treating your scoliosis, providing you with personalised solutions tailored to your needs. Do not hesitate to contact us today to schedule an appointment with our healthcare professionals.
