How Is Scoliosis Diagnosed?

Chiropractors use medical and family history, physical and neurological examination when checking a person for scoliosis. An X-ray will help to diagnose the scoliosis and lets the chiropractor measure the curve and see its location, shape and pattern. An early X-ray is useful to check for any subsequent increase in curvature later on.

Idiopathic scoliosis

Despite years of research doctors don't know what causes the most common type of scoliosis. When a cause can't be identified, the scoliosis is called idiopathic scoliosis.

Most cases develop in children between the ages of 9 and 14 during the growth spurt of puberty. It affects more girls than boys with 80 percent of adolescent cases affecting girls.

As the curvature gets worse, the spine tends to rotate. This can affect the ribs, which become prominent on one side.

In severe cases of early onset upper back scoliosis, the rotated ribs may limit the amount of air getting to the lungs, putting strain on the heart. This increases the risk of heart failure.

This is why early diagnosis is important - appropriate treatment can prevent serious complications.

Call Advanced Healthcare Inc. today and have Dr. Pisarek evaluate you to determine if you demonstrate spinal scoliosis and recommend appropriate treatment options.