Living with scoliosis can often feel like navigating through a maze of misinformation and uncertainty.
To help shed light on some of the most common concerns and queries, I, David Butler, alongside the dedicated team at Align Therapy, have compiled a list of frequently asked questions regarding scoliosis.
Our goal is to provide clear, evidence-based answers to help you understand your condition better and to empower you with the knowledge to manage it effectively.
Here are some insights based on years of specialized practice and patient outcomes.
Q: What success can I expect with The Schroth Method?
A: The main goal of The Schroth Method is to stop the progression of the curve.
This is effective in 70% of our scoliosis patients where we can halt the progression of the curve.
If we then get some reduction in the curve, that is even better. If you are having pain associated with your curve, you should be able to see a significant reduction in pain and a definite improvement in posture.
We use objective measurements to quantify these results.
Q: Will I have back pain later in life because I have scoliosis?
A: Curves that stay smaller usually have less pain later in life.
Curves that are over 35 degrees tend to have more pain later in life, but this is not always the case.
We have seen patients with 72-degree curves who are in their 60s and 70s who do not have back pain, but we have also seen patients with 18-degree curves who have significant pain.
We also have to remember that back pain is present in a significant percentage of the population anyway, so we can’t always blame the curve for the pain.
Q: Will my scoliosis get worse?
A: This depends on the size of your curve. Smaller curves tend not to progress as much as larger curves.
In kids, if the curve gets over 45 degrees, the chance of it continuing to get worse is significant.
Curves over 35 degrees also tend to progress later in life, but not as much. Adult scoliosis is harder to predict, but if the curve develops in later years, the chance of it getting worse is high, because it already has, leading to the diagnosis.
Q: How do I know if I have scoliosis?
A: Most scoliosis curves are caught with screening from a pediatrician.
School screenings were performed in the past, but these are not done as much anymore.
There are some common signs to look for when determining if you have scoliosis.
Uneven shoulders, one shoulder blade that pokes out, uneven hips, a shift in the pelvis to the side, and a rib that protrudes on the front can all be signs of scoliosis.
You can also do a test called an “Adam’s Test” to determine if you have a scoliosis curve.
Q: I had scoliosis correction surgery but I still have pain. Can treatment help?
A: This is a very common problem we treat at Align Therapy. Pain after scoliosis surgery can be due to muscle tension, weakness, myofascial pain, or a variety of other things.
The good news is it usually responds very well to treatment!
Most of the time we just have to work on strengthening what is weak and stretching what is tight.
Combining that with the correct manual therapy can be very helpful.
Q: What activities should I not do with scoliosis?
A: There really are no specific activities that have been shown in the literature to make scoliosis worse.
Because of this, we usually do not tell our patients to stop doing things.
If something causes pain in the back, that is usually an indication that you either need to increase your stability to tolerate it, or you might want to pick another activity.
Otherwise, be active and stay strong.
Our hope is that this information not only answers your immediate questions but also serves as a beacon of hope and direction as you navigate your scoliosis journey.
Remember, you’re not alone, and at Align Therapy, we’re dedicated to providing the support and expert care you need to live a fulfilling life with scoliosis.
Ready To Unlock Your Path to a Pain-Free Life?
Seeking personalized guidance for Scoliosis? We’re here to offer support with a Complimentary Discovery Visit.
Scheduling is easy. Contact us at (801) 980-0860 to secure your spot. Act quickly – availability is limited!
It’s time to move beyond chronic pain and towards an active, fulfilling life.
Envision the happiness and relief of your family and friends as you embrace an active lifestyle once more.
Together, let’s achieve the pain-free existence you’ve been longing for!
More Free Advice For Scoliosis:
Read our blog – Managing Pain After Scoliosis Surgery: Effective Approaches and Therapies
Follow us on social media for more helpful tips and advice – Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube
