Scoliosis is a sideways curve of the spine that may cause stiffness and pain. Most scoliosis is idiopathic, meaning that the cause of it is unknown.  However, in some instances, degenerative diseases of the spine can cause scoliosis. Also, osteoporosis (when the bones soften; usually in older people) can cause the vertebrae to shape the curve causing scoliosis or kyphosis (round back). If not treated properly, back pain, deformity, fatigue after prolonged sitting or standing, and difficulty breathing can be some symptoms that will arise.

Scoliosis is more common in females and often begins in childhood. If it is detected early, scoliosis treatment may prevent it from worsening over time – depending on the severity.

Chiropractic care, including exercise, can help improve this condition. Dr. Dean A. Robinson, as a chiropractor practicing exclusively orthopedics, looks at his Fallbrook and Temecula patients’ overall health examining the spine as well as other factors of lifestyle. To help identify the problem’s cause, he will discuss symptoms and previous injuries, your family's health history, and recreational and work-related activities. If needed, he will refer you to a specialist for further scoliosis treatment.

Symptoms of Scoliosis

Scoliosis is often painless. The curvature itself may often be too subtle to be noticed, even by observant parents. Some parents may notice abnormal posture in their growing child that includes:

• A tilted head that does not line up over the hips.
• A protruding shoulder blade or one side of the rib cage in front.
• One hip or shoulder that is higher than the other, causing an uneven hem or shirt line.
• An uneven neckline.
• Leaning more to one side than the other.
• In developing girls, breasts appearing to be of unequal size.
• One side of the upper back is higher than the other when the child bends over, knees together, with the arms dangling down.

Scoliosis may be suspected when one shoulder appears to be higher than the other, there is a curvature in the spine, or the pelvis appears to be tilted.  The treatment of more severe scoliosis can involve the use of a brace or surgery.  Treatment is determined by the cause and severity of the scoliosis, the size and location of the curve, and the stage of bone growth of the patient.

For more information, or to schedule an evaluation, give our office a call today.

Dr. Dean A. Robinson is licensed to practice Chiropractic in California and Nevada, and has been evaluating and treating orthopedic conditions involving the spine and extremities for over 30 years.  He is highly trained and vastly experienced in evaluating and helping patients recover from injuries (including those caused in car accidents and on the job).  With a post-graduate degree in Chiropractic Orthopedics, having completed San Diego Spine Research Institute's post-graduate course "Whiplash: The Masters Certification Program", and as a Qualified Medical Evaluator for the State of California, he can precisely diagnose and treat injuries, as well as provide essential medical reports and documentation needed in work and auto accident cases.