Scoliosis is a condition that affects millions of Americans and one that is frequently misunderstood in terms of what can and cannot be done about it. While chiropractic care cannot structurally correct a significant scoliotic curve, it plays a meaningful role in managing the condition, reducing pain, improving mobility, and slowing progression in many patients.
Dr. Frank Stiso at Stiso Chiropractic, Acupuncture & Massage Therapy in Manasquan, NJ works with scoliosis patients of all ages with an honest, realistic approach to what chiropractic care can achieve.
What Is Scoliosis?
Scoliosis is an abnormal lateral curvature of the spine. Rather than running in a straight vertical line when viewed from the back, a scoliotic spine curves to one side, sometimes forming a single curve that resembles a C shape, and sometimes forming two curves that resemble an S shape. In some cases the spine also rotates, which can cause one shoulder blade, hip, or side of the rib cage to appear more prominent than the other.
Scoliosis is most commonly diagnosed in children and adolescents during periods of rapid growth, though it can also develop in adults as a result of degenerative changes in the spine. The cause is unknown in the majority of cases, a type called idiopathic scoliosis, though it can also result from neuromuscular conditions, congenital spinal abnormalities, or injury.
Symptoms of Scoliosis
Mild scoliosis often produces no symptoms at all and is discovered incidentally during a routine physical or imaging study. More significant curves can produce:
-
Uneven shoulders, hips, or waist
-
One shoulder blade that appears more prominent than the other
-
A visible curve in the spine
-
Back pain, particularly in the lower back
-
Muscle fatigue and tension on one side of the spine
-
Reduced range of motion
-
In severe cases, difficulty breathing due to reduced chest cavity space
How Chiropractic Care Helps
Chiropractic care for scoliosis is focused on managing the condition rather than correcting the curve itself. The goals of treatment are to reduce pain and discomfort, improve spinal mobility, reduce muscle tension caused by the asymmetrical loading of the spine, and help patients maintain the best possible function and quality of life.
Dr. Stiso takes an honest approach to scoliosis care. He will review any available imaging, assess the degree and pattern of the curve, and give patients a realistic picture of what chiropractic treatment can achieve in their specific case. Treatment is gentle and adapted to the individual, taking into account the severity of the curve and any associated symptoms.
For younger patients whose curves are still developing, regular monitoring and early intervention can play an important role in preventing progression. For adult patients managing pain and stiffness from long-standing scoliosis, chiropractic care can provide meaningful ongoing relief.
Why Choose Dr. Stiso for Scoliosis
Dr. Stiso is straightforward with his scoliosis patients about what chiropractic can and cannot do. He does not oversell the outcome or make promises that cannot be kept. What he does offer is a thorough evaluation, an honest treatment plan, and consistent care aimed at keeping patients as comfortable and functional as possible.
If a patient's curve requires intervention beyond what chiropractic can provide, he will say so and make the appropriate referral.
Ready to Get Started?
If you or a family member is dealing with scoliosis in Manasquan, Wall Township, or the surrounding Monmouth County area, Dr. Stiso and the team at Stiso Chiropractic, Acupuncture & Massage Therapy are ready to help.
Call us at (732) 528-7746 or click the button below to get started. Most major insurance accepted. New patients are always welcome.