Scoliosis Part 2: Types and Causes
In my last blog I described Scoliosis as a sideway curve of your spine that takes a C or S shape and demonstrates a 10 degree deviation to one side or another. Now, let’s talk about the types and causes of scoliosis as we know it.
Types of Scoliosis
Types of Scoliosis: Scoliosis can be subdivided into two types, structural or functional.
- Functional Scoliosis is a curve in your spine that can be secondary to muscle imbalances, leg length inequality or posture and has the potential for correction. (1)
- Structural Scoliosis refers to the rigid unchanging shape of the vertebrae and spine that will not allow for reduction or reversal of the spinal curve.
Structural Scoliosis Causes
Let’s subdivide structural scoliosis into categories based on what we know of its cause (2,3):
- Idiopathic: In medicine, this word eludes to not knowing the cause of something. About 80% of Scoliosis cases falls under this category. We don’t know the cause just yet but researchers are working on it.
- Congenital: You’re born with vertebrae that are shaped a certain way.
- Neuromuscular: People that have certain issues with muscles and nerves. An example of this would be people that suffer from Cerebral palsy
- Degenerative: This can be as a result of an injury, surgical intervention to the spine or bone loss
Scoliosis and Genetics
Practitioners also consider your genetic inheritance while diagnosing you with a certain type. Though not conclusive, it appears there may be a higher prevalence of scoliosis in children born to scoliotic parents.
Stay tuned for my next blog entry as I discuss the diagnosis and treatment process of Scoliosis in adolescents.
The Backs In Action Chiropractic Clinic in East Vancouver
Here at Backs in Action Wellness Centre (Located in East Vancouver near the Commercial-Broadway Skytrain Station) we have the training, techniques and expertise to help you get the treatment you need. We want to help strengthen your body.
Call or email for a chiropractic assessment today with our Commercial Drive Chiropractors and let us help you return to your daily activities!
Phone Number: 604-876-9977 Email: info@backsinaction.ca
Dr Shervin Ranjbar
Chiropractor
Resources and References:
1) American Chiropractic Association: acatoday.org/content_css.cfm?CID=2189
2) Scoliosis Research Society (SRS): srs.org/patient_and_family/scoliosis/
3) WebMD: Osteoarthritis Health Center: webmd.com/osteoarthritis/guide/arthritis-scoliosis
