Scoliosis

As scoliosis is one of our specialities, we have a website completely dedicated to this condition. Please click here to be directed to that site. (South Florida Scoliosis Center).

What causes scoliosis? The most common cause of scoliosis is known as idiopathic which by definition means “unknown”. There are some studies that show there is a genetic component to it showing that there is a family lineage. There are also conditions like cerebral palsy and multiple sclerosis that do cause the abnormal curvature of the spine, but often the cause of scoliosis in an individual is difficult to determine. The spine in its naturally aligned state from the side does have a curve to it, which allows for mobility, upright walking, and the flow of nerve information to be distributed throughout the body.

In the case of scoliosis, the spine curves out sideways, often during the preteen (adolescent, growth spurts) years as the body is Still Growing. The curvature can be congenital, passed through heredity, neuromuscular, in which the aforementioned condition can affect the normal development of the spine, and idiopathic, in which there is no known direct cause.

Adult scoliosis can be disruptive and degenerative, as the spine begins to curve to the side as we age. Scoliosis in adults can be connected to arthritis, disk herniations and stenosis as well.

Regardless of how the spine became misaligned, our doctor can prescribe a course of treatment to offer improvement including curve reduction, pain relief, postural benefits, symmetry and overall improvement in quality of life. Most times surgery is avoided when managed properly.

Scoliosis Symptoms

How to tell if you have scoliosis? It begins with a slight curvature of the spine that develops slowly over time and can be difficult to detect. This results in more than just the physically observable condition of a curved back, which is one of the last things that an outsider can observe about someone with this condition.

Oftentimes, there is not a lot of warning that your body gives you about scoliosis. Sometimes, scoliosis causes no pain at all; and is not physically noticeable until the condition is either screened for, or there is a notice of the head tilted to the side or clothes fitting abnormally that once fit well.

Mild curvature can cause posture and spinal-related problems. Severe scoliosis can make it difficult to breathe and cause chest pain. However, it's important to note that not every form of scoliosis will cause pain.

Scoliosis in adults can gradually set in, degenerating the spine and forcing it into a maladaptive curve. This can affect not only posture but the ability to walk well without assistance.

Dr Greaux can treat many forms of scoliosis without invasive corrective surgery or using braces to straighten the abnormal curvature.

Scoliosis Treatment

What is the traditional course of treatment for scoliosis? Short of pain management, use of a brace, or invasive surgery, little has been attempted to treat scoliosis. Dr Greaux can address many symptoms and problems associated with scoliosis, helping the body compensate for the curvature and correct the alignment issues.

If you or a loved one have scoliosis, call us at (305) 705-0777 to schedule an appointment.