Chiropractors/scoliosis
Expert: Scott F. Gillman, DC, DACBSP - 9/10/2009
QuestionMy question has two parts. First, a 16-year old male with a 40 degree curve in the lower back, could there be a problem in the base of the skull causing the curve in the lower spine. So far the upper spine (connected to the ribs) is not curved. Second, is there research on the use of chiropractic weights and scoliosis treatment that is available to the public to read? I can't find much on the web and/or I am looking the the wrong spot.
AnswerSue,
First, there is no clear evidence as to what causes scoliosis in a healthy young person, although scoliosis is more prevalent with congenitial defects (e.g. an extra bone) or neurologic disorders. But for healthy kids, all is speculation. Second, there is no sure effective treatment short of surgery. The brace people tout cures, but there's no convincing research. There is no exercise program or chiropractic or PT treatment that improves scoliosis. Go to www.biomedcentral.com and look at the scoliosis journal. It's open to the public. It would give you a lot of current information.
'Best,
Dr. G