Can Chiropractic Care Help Treat Scoliosis and Its Symptoms?
Chiropractic care may not improve spinal curvature in scoliosis, but it can effectively relieve back pain or discomfort in the short term. Common side effects include soreness, stiffness, and headaches.
Understanding Scoliosis
Scoliosis is a condition where the spine curves sideways, typically forming an “S” or “C” shape. This condition often develops in childhood or adolescence, usually between the ages of 10 and 18. The cause is often unknown, which is referred to as idiopathic scoliosis.
Not everyone with scoliosis requires treatment. Some individuals may benefit from nonsurgical options, while surgery is generally reserved for severe cases.
What Is Chiropractic Care?
Chiropractic care focuses on the body’s ability to heal itself and is a form of complementary and alternative medicine. People often visit chiropractors to address musculoskeletal issues, aiming to alleviate pain and correct alignment problems. Treatment typically involves spinal manipulation, relaxation techniques, exercises, and nutritional guidance.
Can Chiropractic Help with Scoliosis?
Chiropractic care is generally beneficial for alleviating pain associated with scoliosis. However, it remains unclear if it can effectively address the spinal curvature itself.
Chiropractic for Scoliosis Pain Relief
In many cases, spinal curvature from scoliosis can lead to chronic back pain. The American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons suggests that chiropractic treatment may provide effective short-term pain relief. A 2021 review highlighted spinal manipulation as a potential method for managing spine pain. A small study in 2020 found that spinal manipulation reduced pain and improved spinal alignment in individuals with degenerative scoliosis, though it did not alter the curvature.
A 2019 case study noted that combining spinal manipulation with physical therapy over four months helped reduce pain and enhance function in a patient with prior spinal fusions.
Chiropractic and Spinal Curvature Reduction
The effectiveness of chiropractic care in reducing spinal curvature in scoliosis is still debated. Some studies indicate a slight improvement; for instance, a 2016 study found decreased curvature after eight weeks of chiropractic treatment in children, but no further changes were observed afterward. Reviews from 2023 and 2017 pointed out that while some studies reported positive effects, there is insufficient high-quality evidence to confirm the benefits of spinal manipulation for curvature correction.
Is Massage Therapy Effective for Scoliosis?
Massage therapy is another nonsurgical option that may benefit individuals with scoliosis. Like chiropractic care, it may not correct spinal curvature but can help alleviate pain. The National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH) states that massage therapy may lead to short-term relief for various types of pain, including lower back, shoulder, and neck pain.
Does Chiropractic Care Make Scoliosis Worse?
Chiropractic care is unlikely to worsen scoliosis. However, some side effects may occur. A 2015 study found that 29.7% of participants experienced mild side effects, such as muscle soreness, after chiropractic visits. About 5% reported feeling worse after treatment.
According to the NCCIH, common side effects of spinal manipulation include increased pain or discomfort, headaches, and stiffness, with a rare risk of spinal cord injury.
Effective Nonsurgical Treatments for Scoliosis
For individuals with mild curvature (less than 25 degrees), immediate treatment may not be necessary. Regular follow-up with X-rays every 6 to 12 months may be recommended to monitor the condition.
For younger individuals with moderate curvatures, bracing is the primary nonsurgical treatment, helping to prevent worsening curvature as they grow. Other nonsurgical treatments may not change spinal curvature but can offer important benefits, such as:
- Improved range of motion, flexibility, and strength
- Short-term relief from back pain
- Enhanced quality of life
Examples of these treatments include:
- Physical therapy exercises
- Yoga
- Pilates
- Acupuncture
Surgery is typically recommended only for curvatures greater than 45 to 50 degrees, generally involving spinal fusion.
FAQs About Nonsurgical Scoliosis Treatment
Is Chiropractic Safe for Scoliosis?
Chiropractic care is generally safe when performed by a qualified and licensed professional. In the U.S., chiropractors must earn a Doctor of Chiropractic (DC) degree, pass the National Board of Chiropractic Examiners exam, and obtain a state license.
If you have concerns about chiropractic’s impact on your scoliosis, consult your doctor before starting treatment.
Can Chiropractic Care Realign Scoliosis?
Nonsurgical treatments may help slightly improve the spinal curvature or prevent it from worsening. The only treatment that can significantly straighten the spine in scoliosis is spinal fusion, though this procedure may still not completely straighten the spine.
Which Is Better: Physiotherapy or Chiropractic for Scoliosis?
Research comparing physiotherapy and chiropractic care for scoliosis is limited. An earlier study suggested that both treatments had similar effects and costs for low back pain.
Conclusion
While chiropractic care is unlikely to significantly improve spinal curvature in scoliosis, it can help alleviate back pain or discomfort, especially in individuals with more severe curvatures. Generally, chiropractic is safe when provided by a trained and licensed professional, although some side effects like soreness and headaches may occur.
If you’re considering chiropractic treatment for your scoliosis, it’s crucial to consult your doctor first. They can guide you on the risks and benefits and help you find a qualified practitioner.
