Conditions we treat
Scoliosis
A sideways curvature of the spine that can develop in adolescence or show up later in life. We monitor how it's progressing and support the structure around it.
What scoliosis is
Scoliosis is a sideways curvature of the spine, often with some rotation, rather than the spine's normal front-to-back curves. It can develop during adolescent growth for no clear single reason, or show up later in life as discs and joints degenerate unevenly.
Signs to watch for
- Uneven shoulders or one shoulder blade sitting more prominently than the other
- A visible lean to one side when standing
- One hip appearing higher than the other
- Back pain that develops from the uneven way the spine is loading
- Clothes hanging unevenly for no obvious reason
How we monitor it at North River
Digital X-rays and computerized postural analysis let us track how a curve is measuring over time, rather than relying on how it looks from visit to visit. That's especially useful during adolescent growth, when a curve can progress relatively quickly.
What structural chiropractic care can and can't do
We're direct about this: chiropractic care isn't a replacement for bracing or surgical evaluation in cases where a curve is significant or progressing quickly, and we'll tell you if that's what your imaging shows. What we do offer is ongoing monitoring, postural support work, and care aimed at reducing the pain and asymmetric strain that often comes with living with a curve.
FAQ
Frequently asked questions
Can chiropractic care fix scoliosis?+
It's not a cure for the curve itself, especially in more significant cases. What structural care can offer is monitoring, symptom relief, and support for the muscles and joints working harder because of the curve.
At what age should scoliosis be checked?+
Adolescence is when curves most often develop or progress quickly, so catching it early matters. Adults can also develop or notice curves later in life and should get evaluated if they notice any of the signs above.
Does scoliosis always cause pain?+
Not always, especially with milder curves. When pain does show up, it's often from the uneven way the spine and surrounding muscles are compensating for the curve.
Will I need a brace or surgery?+
That depends entirely on the size and progression of the curve, which is something we can help identify but isn't a decision we make alone. We'll refer you to the right specialist if your imaging points that way.
How often should scoliosis be monitored?+
It depends on the person's age and how the curve has been behaving. Dr. Johns will recommend a follow-up schedule based on what he sees in your imaging, not a fixed timeline for everyone.
Next step
Dealing with scoliosis?
We'll walk through what's going on and whether this is the right fit for you.
Request an Appointment