Scoliosis Screenings
What is Scoliosis?
Everyone's spine has a natural front-to-back curve- that's what produces the normal rounding of the shoulders and the sway of the lower back. However, some people suffer from "Scoliosis" - an abnormal curvature of the spine, especially one characterized by a rotational side-to-side deformity. In simple terms, what this means is that the spine is twisted side-to-side, often taking on an "S" shaped appearance and even resembling a corkscrew in some cases.
WHY IS SCOLIOSIS A PROBLEM?
Three percent of people have some degree of abnormal spinal curvature, scoliosis, and for some it never becomes a serious problem. But for many others, the curve gets worse over time and can cause considerable pain, frustration, and limitations on normal activities. Severe scoliosis can even complicate breathing and circulation. Conditions arising as a result of scoliosis include rib deformity, shortness of breath, digestive problems, chronic fatigue, acute or dull back pain, leg, hip, and knee pain, acute headaches, mood swings, and menstrual disturbances.
When should Scoliosis be detected?
As soon as possible! Early detection is essential if treatment is to be effective. Because the spine continues to grow into the early 20s, if left uncorrected it often worsens. Once the curvature is fully developed, correction by any means becomes much more difficult and serious complications are more likely to occur. Scoliosis is a progressive condition that can continue to worsen even after skeletal maturity. Millions of scoliosis sufferers are routinely misinformed about the accelerating nature of their spinal curvature progression.
Who can have Scoliosis?
It is possible for anyone to have scoliosis, but scoliosis tends to run in families, and it affects many more girls than boys. In fact, research indicates that girls are nearly eight times more likely than boys to have scoliosis and five times more likely to require some form of treatment for their condition than boys, and the curvature of their spine is more likely to worsen over time, especially if left unattended.
HOW IS SCOLIOSIS DETECTED?
Most public school nurses in the United States test for scoliosis, but even the International Scoliosis Society agrees that the most accurate diagnosis is one done by a doctor. As a doctor who specializes in the spine, and is trained to identify and manage problems relating to the spine and the back, a chiropractor is well qualified to test for scoliosis. A scoliosis screening takes just minutes out of a child's day, but can give the child and their parents information that may affect their future health potential and quality of life.
HOW MUCH DOES A SCOLIOSIS SCREENING COST?
At North Georgia Spinal Care, we offer a low-cost scoliosis screening, including a thoracic x-ray, to children under 18 years of age. Click on the following link to print the coupon for a Scoliosis Screening. For people over 18 years of age, you may use your insurance co-pay for your first visit, or our affordable self-pay fees.
