Scoliosis

Scoliosis Therapy Center In Chapel Hill

Can Scoliosis be Reversed?

Do you suffer from scoliosis in the Chapel Hill, Raleigh, or Durham areas? Typically, scoliosis begins as a minor bend in the spine that gradually progresses. In fact, for the diagnosis of a scoliosis to be made, there must be a minimum 60^o sideways curve of the spine. Once the spine has advanced to this stage there are often severe health consequences. The good news is that if the bending of the spine is discovered early, and then cared for properly during its early stages, it can be prevented from advancing over time and in many cases the curvature can be reduced.

What Causes Scoliosis?

The cause of scoliosis has been researched, and there has been little consensus regarding its origin. However, the studies have shown that scoliosis is more likely to occur in young adolescent females. Many times a small bend in the spine begins with the simple misalignment of single vertebrae. Over time, the body begins to compensate for this abnormality and “S” and “C” shaped curves of the spine develop. Often parents and children first notice the presence of scoliosis due to the un-evening of the shoulders and pelvis. Unlike other spinal conditions, scoliosis cannot be reversed by changes in posture.

While many cases of scoliosis effect the younger population, it is important to realize that the condition can also develop in older adults. As people age, degenerative disorders such as osteoporosis cause the bones in the spine to lose their normal shape. As a result, the body begins to compensate by producing lateral curves in the spine to ensure that the head remains level. In such cases, if the cause of the bending is not addressed, severe consequences including heart and lung problems may develop.

An x-ray examination performed by your treating physician is the most effective means of detecting a scoliosis. However, various orthopedic examinations such as Adams Position Test can assist in the diagnosis. Dr. Cosmas Leigh at Leigh Brain & Spine will also examine the hips and shoulders for un-evening, and check the legs for variation in length which. This can be a clue to the development of a scoliosis.

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Chiropractors FAQ

Do Chiropractors adjust all patients the same way?

No. The chiropractor evaluates each patient’s unique spinal problem and develops an individual course of care. In fact, there are many different chiropractic techniques and the chiropractor will decide which is best for each patient. The recommendations made by a chiropractor are based upon years of training and experience. Each patient’s care is uniquely different from every other patient.

Can a person who had back surgery see a chiropractor?

Yes. It’s an unfortunate fact that up to half of those who had spinal surgery discover a return of their original symptoms months or years later. They then face the prospect of additional surgery. This too common occurrence is known as “Failed Back Surgery Syndrome.” Chiropractors may help prevent repeated back surgeries. In fact, if chiropractic care is initially utilized back surgery can often be avoided in the first place. Some chiropractors specialize in serving those people who have had previous back surgeries and are still in pain. Spinal Decompression Therapy can be the most effective course of treatment for such a person.

Can I adjust myself?

No. Since a chiropractic adjustment is a specific force, applied in a specific direction to a specific joint, it is virtually impossible to adjust oneself correctly and accurately. It is possible to turn or bend or twist in certain ways to create a “popping” sound that sometimes accompanies a chiropractic adjustment. Unfortunately, this type of joint manipulation is usually counterproductive, often making an already unstable spine even more unstable, and can sometimes be dangerous. Adjusting the spine is not for amateurs.

Can I tell if my spine is out of alignment?

Not always. A misalignment is like a dental cavity–you may have it for a long time before symptoms appear. That’s why periodic spinal checkups are so important. Although it may be possible to know you have a misalignment, it is rarely possible to be sure you don’t. Regular spinal checkups are always a good idea, and they promote good health from the inside out.

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About Dr. Cosmas Leigh

Chiropractic Physician

Dr. Cosmas Leigh, D.C. is a pioneer in Spinal Decompression to treat spinal stenosis, herniated discs, bulging discs, and disc degeneration. Dr. Leigh was the first in his region to include the state-of-the-art DRX 9000c Non-Surgical Spinal Decompression system to his practice to reduce pain and restore function for people of all ages.

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