Scoliosis in Adults – Problems Related with Abnormal Spine Curvature

Scoliosis is a disorder wherein the spine tends to curve away from the middle or sideways. The condition is typically indicated when the person’s shoulder seems more elevated than the other or the when his or her pelvis looks tilted.

Scoliosis in Adults - Causative Factors of the Condition

One of the known causes that lead to scoliosis in adults is congenital, which reveals that the disorder has been present at birth and only develops while in the mother’s womb. As the fetus grows, it is possible that the bones in the spine do not form properly or the ribs fuse together resulting to the curved spine. Another reason of scoliosis in adults is neuromuscular which can be due to the muscle weakness, poor muscle control, or paralysis as a result of diseases like spina bifida, cerebral palsy, polio, and muscular dystrophy. Nonetheless, one type has no identifiable cause yet - the Idiopathic scoliosis which develops from a previously straight spine.

Scoliosis Symptoms - Warning Signs and Diagnosis

Aside from the seemingly tilted shoulders and hips, scoliosis symptoms like backaches and other low-back pains can also be experienced by the person suffering from the said spinal disorder. Fatigue in the spine can also be felt after long periods of standing or sitting, while severe cases may result to breathing problems. These scoliosis symptoms can be confirmed through several diagnostic examinations like the forward-bending test for curve definition, X-ray, and some neurologic exams to observe changes in strength, reflexes, and sensation. Another means for diagnosis may involve the use of measuring device referred to as the scoliometer so as to determine the spine’s curvature.

Scoliosis Exercises - Treatment through Work-outs

In order to correct several muscular imbalances, various scoliosis exercises can be undergone by the patient. One is the yoga which generally contributes in stretching and strengthening the muscles through certain poses that focus onto the back area thereby addressing the curvature problem. Another is the Pilates which give more emphasis in improving posture by strengthening the core muscles. Aside from that, certain positions also facilitate gradual treatment of the condition. Seated exercise positions like twisted seating, doing back or concave arches, and upper back stretches are just some of the useful scoliosis exercises. Prone exercise positions may include leg lifting while standing exercises may involve back stretches.