Structural Scoliosis
A structural scoliosis is probably the most common spinal deformity encountered in clinical practice by Chiropractors.
It is a complex three-dimensional deformity that disorganises the careful interrelationship between all of the spinal vertebrae.
It involves both a "sideways" curvature and rotation of the spinal vertebrae. Over time the bones become quite misshapen. As the condition
progresses the vertebra and the intervertebral discs decrease in height on the concave side of the curve.
Scoliosis may be related to other diseases such as:
Muscular dystrophy
Syringomyelia
Cerebral palsy
Ehler's-Danlos syndrome
Marfan's syndrome
Neurofibromatosis.
In these cases the scoliosis would be classified as secondary.
1. Infantile Idiopathic Scoliosis
Child younger than 3 years old
The only type more common in boys than girls.
This type of curve can often clear up by itself.
If the curve is mild it can usually be treated, observed and managed by chiropractors.
For very pronounced curves the standard medical procedure would be to include bracing or possibly even surgery in the most severe of cases.
2. Juvenile Idiopathic Scoliosis
Children aged 3-10 years of age.
Highest rate of progression and ultimately surgical intervention.
Chiropractic observation, treatment and management is appropriate for minor curves. Medical management in more pronounced curves is bracing and in severe curves surgical intervention.
3. Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis
Children greater than 10 years of age
The most common form
The older the patient and the smaller the curve the less the chance of progression.
Bracing is typically only effective in children that have yet to reach skeletal maturity and is recommended on the more pronounced curves.
The more severe curves require surgical intervention.
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