The Truth About Adult Scoliosis Progression

When we hear about scoliosis we generally think about the kids we knew in high school that had to wear a brace or maybe even had to deal with scoliosis surgery but we don’t often think about adults with scoliosis. The prevalence of adults with scoliosis is quite high, In this study, results indicate a scoliosis rate of 68% in a healthy adult population, with an average age of 70.5 years(1). So the reality is that 2/3 of the adult elderly population has scoliosis, a curve in their spine when viewed from the front of more than 10 degrees. According to this study and additional resources there is a very strong correlation of scoliosis to pain and dysfunction where about half of the adult scoliosis patients did have measurable social or physical limitations. There was a significant correlation between degeneration of the spine and discs and scoliosis which most likely impacts function levels of those with scoliosis especially on a segmental basis.

When dealing with scoliosis as an adult whether you had the condition from childhood or developed it later in life it seems the major concern is progression. Most adult patients especially the ‘baby boomers” are very concerned about their scoliosis getting worse. I think we have to consider the prevalence of scoliosis differs between the adolescent populations at a 3% incidence level versus the adult population having a 20% incidence level (3). In addition to the older populations of >60 being 40% and >70 year old population at 68%. So there definitely needs to be a distinction between adolescent scoliosis patients that are now adults versus later onset scoliosis induced almost entirely via environmental interaction with an effect on the lumbar spine primarily.

There is a very detailed and respectable study that was recently done regarding progression rates with scoliosis in the adult population (2). The truth is that scoliosis does progress in adulthood. Not only does it progress but it has a somewhat predictable nature to it based on where the curve is located or type of scoliosis. Lumbar and thoracolumbar single curves progress with the highest rate approximately 1.64 degrees per year, so a 10 year span would result in a 16 degree progression, WOW! whereas double major curves have the lowest rate of progression at .82 degrees per year or 8 degrees per decade. These progression statistics were based on very specific parameters. The patients observed in this study were separated into two very distinct groups, Type a double major curves and Type B single lumbar or thoracolumbar curves.

The double major group (type A) was often diagnosed in adolescence and in this particular study started being monitored at a mean age of 24 with a mean cobb angle measurement of 37 degrees (range 22° to 52° ). The single lumbar/thoracolumbar group (type B) began initial monitoring much later at a mean age of 46 with a mean cobb angle of only 20° (range 3° to 35°). The most significant difference between the two different scoliosis types was menopause. Type B single lumbar curves had a significant deterioration and progressed at a faster rate following menopause.

So when discussing whether or not scoliosis progresses in adulthood we have to make an initial distinction between the type of scoliosis that a patient has either adolescent scoliosis generally double major curves or adult onset scoliosis of the lumbar spine. If it is adult onset scoliosis of the lumbar spine then there are certain characteristics to look for and to monitor. If you are female then obviously menopause is a big component of the progression and all proactive steps available should be taken to prevent a big swing of the scoliosis in the wrong direction causing more dysfunction and pain in later years. Considering the progression is correlated and often caused by the rotation in the lumbar spine with adult onset scoliosis this needs to be a major component of the monitoring and scoliosis treatment process.

The adolescent double major has a lower progression rate and is not linked to menopausal deterioration but certainly should not be neglected based on a “ it’s not as bad” mentality, it still will worsen without any intervention and cause undo spinal dysfunction and pain. Interestingly the rotation in this scoliosis type appears to be secondary and a direct result of progression.

The progression of adult scoliosis is linear and therefore can be used to establish an individual prognosis and potentially generate treatment plan to accommodate each type and level of scoliosis.


Spine (Phila Pa 1976). 2005 May 1;30(9):1082-5.

Adult scoliosis: prevalence, SF-36, and nutritional parameters in an elderly volunteer population.

Natural history of progressive adult scoliosis.

Marty-Poumarat C, Scattin L, Marpeau M, Garreau de Loubresse C, Aegerter P.

Spine 2007 May 15;32(11):1227-34; discussion 1235.

Adult Lumbar Scoliosis: Underreported on Lumbar MR Scans

Z. Anwara, E. Zana, S.K. Gujara, D.M. Sciubbaa, L.H. Riley IIIa, Z.L. Gokaslana and D.M. Yousema

Published online before print January 6, 2010, doi: 10.3174/ajnr.A1962 AJNR 2010 31: 832-837

About Dr Kevin Lau

Dr Kevin Lau DC is the founder of Health In Your Hands, a series of tools for Scoliosis prevention and treatment. The set includes his book Your Plan for Natural Scoliosis Prevention and Treatment, a companion Scoliosis Exercises for Prevention and Correction DVD and the innovative new iPhone application ScolioTrack. Dr Kevin Lau is a graduate in Doctor of Chiropractic from RMIT University in Melbourne Australia and Masters in Holistic Nutrition. He is a member of International Society On Scoliosis Orthopaedic and Rehabilitation Treatment (SOSORT), the leading international society on conservative treatment of spinal deformities. In 2006 I was awarded the "Best Health-care Provider Awards" by the largest Newspaper publication in Singapore on October 18 2006 as well as being interviewed on Primetime Channel News Asia as well as other TV and Radio. For more information on Dr Kevin Lau, watch his interviews or get a free sneak peek of his book, go to: http://www.hiyh.info.

When we hear about scoliosis we generally think about the kids we knew in high school that had to wear a brace or maybe even had to deal with scoliosis surgery but we don’t often think about adults with scoliosis. The prevalence of adults with scoliosis is quite high, In this study, results indicate a scoliosis rate of 68% in a healthy adult population, with an average age of 70.5 years(1). So the reality is that 2/3 of the adult elderly population has scoliosis, a curve in their spine when viewed from the front of more than 10 degrees. According to this study and additional resources there is a very strong correlation of scoliosis to pain and dysfunction where about half of the adult scoliosis patients did have measurable social or physical limitations. There was a significant correlation between degeneration of the spine and discs and scoliosis which most likely impacts function levels of those with scoliosis especially on a segmental basis.

When dealing with scoliosis as an adult whether you had the condition from childhood or developed it later in life it seems the major concern is progression. Most adult patients especially the ‘baby boomers” are very concerned about their scoliosis getting worse. I think we have to consider the prevalence of scoliosis differs between the adolescent populations at a 3% incidence level versus the adult population having a 20% incidence level (3). In addition to the older populations of >60 being 40% and >70 year old population at 68%. So there definitely needs to be a distinction between adolescent scoliosis patients that are now adults versus later onset scoliosis induced almost entirely via environmental interaction with an effect on the lumbar spine primarily.

There is a very detailed and respectable study that was recently done regarding progression rates with scoliosis in the adult population (2). The truth is that scoliosis does progress in adulthood. Not only does it progress but it has a somewhat predictable nature to it based on where the curve is located or type of scoliosis. Lumbar and thoracolumbar single curves progress with the highest rate approximately 1.64 degrees per year, so a 10 year span would result in a 16 degree progression, WOW! whereas double major curves have the lowest rate of progression at .82 degrees per year or 8 degrees per decade. These progression statistics were based on very specific parameters. The patients observed in this study were separated into two very distinct groups, Type a double major curves and Type B single lumbar or thoracolumbar curves.

The double major group (type A) was often diagnosed in adolescence and in this particular study started being monitored at a mean age of 24 with a mean cobb angle measurement of 37 degrees (range 22° to 52° ). The single lumbar/thoracolumbar group (type B) began initial monitoring much later at a mean age of 46 with a mean cobb angle of only 20° (range 3° to 35°). The most significant difference between the two different scoliosis types was menopause. Type B single lumbar curves had a significant deterioration and progressed at a faster rate following menopause.

So when discussing whether or not scoliosis progresses in adulthood we have to make an initial distinction between the type of scoliosis that a patient has either adolescent scoliosis generally double major curves or adult onset scoliosis of the lumbar spine. If it is adult onset scoliosis of the lumbar spine then there are certain characteristics to look for and to monitor. If you are female then obviously menopause is a big component of the progression and all proactive steps available should be taken to prevent a big swing of the scoliosis in the wrong direction causing more dysfunction and pain in later years. Considering the progression is correlated and often caused by the rotation in the lumbar spine with adult onset scoliosis this needs to be a major component of the monitoring and scoliosis treatment process.

The adolescent double major has a lower progression rate and is not linked to menopausal deterioration but certainly should not be neglected based on a “ it’s not as bad” mentality, it still will worsen without any intervention and cause undo spinal dysfunction and pain. Interestingly the rotation in this scoliosis type appears to be secondary and a direct result of progression.

The progression of adult scoliosis is linear and therefore can be used to establish an individual prognosis and potentially generate treatment plan to accommodate each type and level of scoliosis.


Spine (Phila Pa 1976). 2005 May 1;30(9):1082-5.

Adult scoliosis: prevalence, SF-36, and nutritional parameters in an elderly volunteer population.

Natural history of progressive adult scoliosis.

Marty-Poumarat C, Scattin L, Marpeau M, Garreau de Loubresse C, Aegerter P.

Spine 2007 May 15;32(11):1227-34; discussion 1235.

Adult Lumbar Scoliosis: Underreported on Lumbar MR Scans

Z. Anwara, E. Zana, S.K. Gujara, D.M. Sciubbaa, L.H. Riley IIIa, Z.L. Gokaslana and D.M. Yousema

Published online before print January 6, 2010, doi: 10.3174/ajnr.A1962 AJNR 2010 31: 832-837

About Dr Kevin Lau

Dr Kevin Lau DC is the founder of Health In Your Hands, a series of tools for Scoliosis prevention and treatment. The set includes his book Your Plan for Natural Scoliosis Prevention and Treatment, a companion Scoliosis Exercises for Prevention and Correction DVD and the innovative new iPhone application ScolioTrack. Dr Kevin Lau is a graduate in Doctor of Chiropractic from RMIT University in Melbourne Australia and Masters in Holistic Nutrition. He is a member of International Society On Scoliosis Orthopaedic and Rehabilitation Treatment (SOSORT), the leading international society on conservative treatment of spinal deformities. In 2006 I was awarded the "Best Health-care Provider Awards" by the largest Newspaper publication in Singapore on October 18 2006 as well as being interviewed on Primetime Channel News Asia as well as other TV and Radio. For more information on Dr Kevin Lau, watch his interviews or get a free sneak peek of his book, go to: http://www.hiyh.info.

Read More

The ineffectiveness of Scoliosis Bracing

By Dr Kevin Lau

Scoliosis is known by the curvature of a person’s spine. The areas commonly afflicted are the middle or side bones of the spine. Scoliosis can be discovered at birth, while in the womb the bones of the spine fail to form properly or the ribs fuse together leading to congenital scoliosis. The condition poses minimal risk to infants and young children of both genders.

Neuromuscular scoliosis refers to muscle problems such as poor muscle control, muscle weaknesses and muscle paralysis caused by certain diseases (spina bifida, muscular dystrophy and polio). Idiopathic scoliosis has no cause and is frequently observed in adolescents, the majority being young girls. The spinal curves worsen as adolescents grow. The braces are less helpful to overweight patients afflicted with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis.

Treatment varies according to the cause of the scoliosis, the size and location on the spine and the growth rate of the patient. For curves between 24 to 40 degrees in adolescents, body braces are advised by doctors to stop the advancement of spine curving. Boston Brace, Milwaukee Brace, Wilmington Brace and Charleston Brace are the different types of braces. Each brace has an individual function and the patients’ health care provider has to choose the most suitable one for the patient.

Medical reports say the scoliosis brace does not reverse the curve; instead it applies pressure at certain points to straighten the spine. The importance of the brace is that it is adjustable as the patient matures.

The standard treatment prescribed is a scoliosis brace that corrects moderate curves of 24 to 40 degrees in adolescents. This treatment is recommended despite the lack of evidence to validate its prescription and the debate is still ongoing. Though hard and elastic braces have been shown to correct spinal curvature, the research does not provide definite answers. More investigation is needed to determine conclusively if body bracing is good for scoliosis patients. 

The preference for scoliosis bracing is in small part due to subpar research on the effects of scoliosis exercise in the 1960’s to1970’s.  It is important to consider the supervision of these research studies. The participants were instructed to engage in scoliosis exercises which were not directed towards relieving scoliosis curvature or pain. The orthopedic scoliosis specialist community took the research as the basis to advocate scoliosis bracing over exercise.

Recent long-term studies published in research journals cast doubt on the usefulness of the scoliosis brace treatment, especially on its supposed ability to halt the scoliosis spine progression, preventing the patient from needing scoliosis surgery or significantly altering the condition.

At the 2010 SOSORT meeting in Montreal, a speaker presented findings that demonstrated the possible negative impact scoliosis braces may have on an individual. When scoliosis braces were used on rat tails, which are structurally similar to the human spine, the rate of disc deformity increased. Moreover, the curvature of the scoliosis spine had an elevated chance of worsening.

The futility of the brace is further illustrated in a graph designed by the creators of the Scoliscore genetic test. The results of the scoliosis brace treatment and the predicted progression of Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis by studying pre-disposed genetic factors was plotted in two separate graphs. The two graphical lines matched almost perfectly, emphasizing that scoliosis brace is a poor treatment that doesn’t alter the course of the condition.

Aside from the limited probability of the braces actually working, there are other reasons for the immense aversion to wearing it. The brace is constructed to attach against the skin to firmly hold the spine in place. It has been known to cause great discomfort as well as skin problems since the plastic brace is fitted very tightly. The plastic fittings chaff the skin and are responsible for skin irritations and skin breakouts. The areas have to be given time to heal before the device can be worn again. The brace is also responsible for darkening of patches of the skin. Health care professionals advise patients to wear a cotton shirt underneath the brace, but that does very little to help.

Weather conditions further enhance the distress; given that hot or humid conditions can be very uncomfortable, patients have to take excessive measures to keep their skin cool and dry.

Scoliosis brace treatment is not flexible. It has to be worn for the prescribed period of time each day, which means the patient has to be careful on the removal and fixing of the brace. Most patients find it bothersome to remove the brace for bathing and then to re-attach it again. The biggest issue adolescents have with the scoliosis brace, it is too noticeable. The brace is even obvious under clothing, undermining the patient’s confidence. Many patients reported feeling self-conscious and “weird” after a few weeks of wearing the brace. They began to resist the treatment, seeing it as an imposition and a very unwanted interference in their already difficult lives.

In light of these latest developments, patients should explore other options rather than expensive and invasive scoliosis braces. “Health in Your Hands: Your Plan for Natural Scoliosis Prevention and Treatment” by Dr Kevin Lau D C, Kevin Lau is a good book that underlines a comprehensive and easy plan to prevent and treat scoliosis.

It is divided into three sections and each section offers something to the reader.  With purchase of the book, readers will be privy to vital information that will help them manage their scoliosis condition.

The book offers the following;

• In-depth explanation of the causes and research on the scoliosis condition. The common symptoms of scoliosis.
• Critical analysis on bracing and surgery. Answering questions such as why they are unsuitable and ineffectual.
• Information on the latest treatments including a discussion on their various aspects.
• A scoliosis assessment to determine the quality of life teenagers will have in their later years.
• An extensive nutritional program. In addition to details on the consequences of a proper lack of nutrition especially how it effects the normal growth of the spine.
• Comprehension on the movement of muscles and ligaments on scoliosis patients.
• Elucidates good, strengthening exercises for the spine and routines you can follow within your schedule. All the exercises are detailed in simple diagrams.
• Tips and body mechanics to amend your posture as well as to ease back pain are mentioned in the book. Additionally, the best sitting, standing and sleeping positions are given.
• Inspirational stories and case studies that will enable readers to gain experience and enlightenment.

The dietary program outlined in the book is what the Aboriginal groups of Australia and tribes from native Africa have been surviving on. Their community has a very low occurrence of scoliosis and they are relatively healthy. Dr Lau describes his book as cohesion between modern medicine and ancient wisdom, combining the best from each for a healthier lifestyle.

People suffering from scoliosis have found relief from their problems within the book. It is well-researched and designed to provide maximum benefit to the readers. Chiropractors even recommend it to their patients. The book is handy for both patients and health care professionals to incorporate into a fitness and health regime. 

About Dr Kevin Lau

Dr Kevin Lau DC is the founder of Health In Your Hands, a series of tools for Scoliosis prevention and treatment. The set includes his book Your Plan for Natural Scoliosis Prevention and Treatment, a companion Scoliosis Exercises for Prevention and Correction DVD and the innovative new iPhone application ScolioTrack. Dr Kevin Lau is a graduate in Doctor of Chiropractic from RMIT University in Melbourne Australia and Masters in Holistic Nutrition. He is a member of International Society On Scoliosis Orthopaedic and Rehabilitation Treatment (SOSORT), the leading international society on conservative treatment of spinal deformities. In 2006 I was awarded the "Best Health-care Provider Awards" by the largest Newspaper publication in Singapore on October 18 2006 as well as being interviewed on Primetime Channel News Asia as well as other TV and Radio. For more information on Dr Kevin Lau, watch his interviews or get a free sneak peek of his book, go to: http://www.hiyh.info.

By Dr Kevin Lau

Scoliosis is known by the curvature of a person’s spine. The areas commonly afflicted are the middle or side bones of the spine. Scoliosis can be discovered at birth, while in the womb the bones of the spine fail to form properly or the ribs fuse together leading to congenital scoliosis. The condition poses minimal risk to infants and young children of both genders.

Neuromuscular scoliosis refers to muscle problems such as poor muscle control, muscle weaknesses and muscle paralysis caused by certain diseases (spina bifida, muscular dystrophy and polio). Idiopathic scoliosis has no cause and is frequently observed in adolescents, the majority being young girls. The spinal curves worsen as adolescents grow. The braces are less helpful to overweight patients afflicted with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis.

Treatment varies according to the cause of the scoliosis, the size and location on the spine and the growth rate of the patient. For curves between 24 to 40 degrees in adolescents, body braces are advised by doctors to stop the advancement of spine curving. Boston Brace, Milwaukee Brace, Wilmington Brace and Charleston Brace are the different types of braces. Each brace has an individual function and the patients’ health care provider has to choose the most suitable one for the patient.

Medical reports say the scoliosis brace does not reverse the curve; instead it applies pressure at certain points to straighten the spine. The importance of the brace is that it is adjustable as the patient matures.

The standard treatment prescribed is a scoliosis brace that corrects moderate curves of 24 to 40 degrees in adolescents. This treatment is recommended despite the lack of evidence to validate its prescription and the debate is still ongoing. Though hard and elastic braces have been shown to correct spinal curvature, the research does not provide definite answers. More investigation is needed to determine conclusively if body bracing is good for scoliosis patients. 

The preference for scoliosis bracing is in small part due to subpar research on the effects of scoliosis exercise in the 1960’s to1970’s.  It is important to consider the supervision of these research studies. The participants were instructed to engage in scoliosis exercises which were not directed towards relieving scoliosis curvature or pain. The orthopedic scoliosis specialist community took the research as the basis to advocate scoliosis bracing over exercise.

Recent long-term studies published in research journals cast doubt on the usefulness of the scoliosis brace treatment, especially on its supposed ability to halt the scoliosis spine progression, preventing the patient from needing scoliosis surgery or significantly altering the condition.

At the 2010 SOSORT meeting in Montreal, a speaker presented findings that demonstrated the possible negative impact scoliosis braces may have on an individual. When scoliosis braces were used on rat tails, which are structurally similar to the human spine, the rate of disc deformity increased. Moreover, the curvature of the scoliosis spine had an elevated chance of worsening.

The futility of the brace is further illustrated in a graph designed by the creators of the Scoliscore genetic test. The results of the scoliosis brace treatment and the predicted progression of Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis by studying pre-disposed genetic factors was plotted in two separate graphs. The two graphical lines matched almost perfectly, emphasizing that scoliosis brace is a poor treatment that doesn’t alter the course of the condition.

Aside from the limited probability of the braces actually working, there are other reasons for the immense aversion to wearing it. The brace is constructed to attach against the skin to firmly hold the spine in place. It has been known to cause great discomfort as well as skin problems since the plastic brace is fitted very tightly. The plastic fittings chaff the skin and are responsible for skin irritations and skin breakouts. The areas have to be given time to heal before the device can be worn again. The brace is also responsible for darkening of patches of the skin. Health care professionals advise patients to wear a cotton shirt underneath the brace, but that does very little to help.

Weather conditions further enhance the distress; given that hot or humid conditions can be very uncomfortable, patients have to take excessive measures to keep their skin cool and dry.

Scoliosis brace treatment is not flexible. It has to be worn for the prescribed period of time each day, which means the patient has to be careful on the removal and fixing of the brace. Most patients find it bothersome to remove the brace for bathing and then to re-attach it again. The biggest issue adolescents have with the scoliosis brace, it is too noticeable. The brace is even obvious under clothing, undermining the patient’s confidence. Many patients reported feeling self-conscious and “weird” after a few weeks of wearing the brace. They began to resist the treatment, seeing it as an imposition and a very unwanted interference in their already difficult lives.

In light of these latest developments, patients should explore other options rather than expensive and invasive scoliosis braces. “Health in Your Hands: Your Plan for Natural Scoliosis Prevention and Treatment” by Dr Kevin Lau D C, Kevin Lau is a good book that underlines a comprehensive and easy plan to prevent and treat scoliosis.

It is divided into three sections and each section offers something to the reader.  With purchase of the book, readers will be privy to vital information that will help them manage their scoliosis condition.

The book offers the following;

• In-depth explanation of the causes and research on the scoliosis condition. The common symptoms of scoliosis.
• Critical analysis on bracing and surgery. Answering questions such as why they are unsuitable and ineffectual.
• Information on the latest treatments including a discussion on their various aspects.
• A scoliosis assessment to determine the quality of life teenagers will have in their later years.
• An extensive nutritional program. In addition to details on the consequences of a proper lack of nutrition especially how it effects the normal growth of the spine.
• Comprehension on the movement of muscles and ligaments on scoliosis patients.
• Elucidates good, strengthening exercises for the spine and routines you can follow within your schedule. All the exercises are detailed in simple diagrams.
• Tips and body mechanics to amend your posture as well as to ease back pain are mentioned in the book. Additionally, the best sitting, standing and sleeping positions are given.
• Inspirational stories and case studies that will enable readers to gain experience and enlightenment.

The dietary program outlined in the book is what the Aboriginal groups of Australia and tribes from native Africa have been surviving on. Their community has a very low occurrence of scoliosis and they are relatively healthy. Dr Lau describes his book as cohesion between modern medicine and ancient wisdom, combining the best from each for a healthier lifestyle.

People suffering from scoliosis have found relief from their problems within the book. It is well-researched and designed to provide maximum benefit to the readers. Chiropractors even recommend it to their patients. The book is handy for both patients and health care professionals to incorporate into a fitness and health regime. 

About Dr Kevin Lau

Dr Kevin Lau DC is the founder of Health In Your Hands, a series of tools for Scoliosis prevention and treatment. The set includes his book Your Plan for Natural Scoliosis Prevention and Treatment, a companion Scoliosis Exercises for Prevention and Correction DVD and the innovative new iPhone application ScolioTrack. Dr Kevin Lau is a graduate in Doctor of Chiropractic from RMIT University in Melbourne Australia and Masters in Holistic Nutrition. He is a member of International Society On Scoliosis Orthopaedic and Rehabilitation Treatment (SOSORT), the leading international society on conservative treatment of spinal deformities. In 2006 I was awarded the "Best Health-care Provider Awards" by the largest Newspaper publication in Singapore on October 18 2006 as well as being interviewed on Primetime Channel News Asia as well as other TV and Radio. For more information on Dr Kevin Lau, watch his interviews or get a free sneak peek of his book, go to: http://www.hiyh.info.

Read More

Scoliosis & Epigenetics

Written by Dr. A. Joshua Woggon, Copyright 2012.

"Research is to see what everybody else has seen, and to think what no one else has thought."

-Albert Szent-Gyorgi, Nobel Prize Winner & Discoverer of Vitamin C


The role that genetics plays in the development of scoliosis remains controversial. While it cannot be disputed that scoliosis does have a familial component (people who have a family member with scoliosis are more likely to have it themselves), the fact that identical twins do not always share the disease of scoliosis emphasizes the role that other, non-genetic factors play in the development of scoliosis.

This topic was recently explored in detail by four of the most highly respected researchers in the field of scoliosis, including the foremost experts on the etiology (cause) of scoliosis, Burwell & Dangerfield, and the current editor-in-chief of the Scoliosis journal, Theodoros Grivas. The article, entitled Adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS), environment, exposome, and epigenetics: a molecular perspective of postnatal normal spinal growth and the etiopathogenesis of AIS with consideration of a network approach and possible implications for medical therapy, was recently published in the journal Scoliosis, and is the first research endeavor to explore the role of epigenetics in scoliosis.

Epigenetics, while as complex as genetics if not moreso, can be summarized simply as the study of the environmental factors which regulate genetic expression. Through the process of methylation, genes can be "turned on" or "turned off" in response to these factors. Thus, an individual with a family history of cancer and who is at high risk for developing cancer themselves can modify their diet & lifestyle, which will actually re-write their genetic code to reduce their chances of developing cancer.

Due to the gaps in our understanding of what causes scoliosis, the traditional approaches of bracing & surgery can only aim at treating the effects of scoliosis; most notably, Cobb angle. Bracing & scoliosis surgery are mechanical in nature; they do not involve rehabilitation of the neurological systems of the body, and they do not claim to address what caused the scoliosis to develop in the first place. They merely respond to the presence of a lateral curvature of the spine by attempting to force it back into place.

The lack of research on the causes of scoliosis is, in part, driven by the sociopolitical forces which prevail and continue to promote bracing & surgery as the only solutions. In the last decade, epigenetics has revolutionized the way in which we understand many diseases. Unfortunately, this has not been the case for scoliosis, where "there are only sporadic reports suggesting that environmental factors are at work in etiology. [E]pigenetics does not figure in any causal analysis of postnatal normal spinal growth, or in the etiopathogenesis of AIS. This reflects current scientific opinion that genetic rather than environmental factors determine the etiology of AIS in accordance with the genetic variant hypothesis of disease."

In short, there is a very real possibility that environmental forces may play a larger role in the development and progression of scoliosis than genetic factors, but due to the current dogma, this possibility is simply not being explored in the United States.

One of the possible environmental factors which could play a role in scoliosis is "environmental effects induced in the spine by physical exercises." Unfortunately, this was not explored in this paper, and remains unknown and unresearched.

It is not unreasonable, in the face of evidence proving that an individual's genetic risk for cancer can be reduced through diet & lifestyle changes, to propose that an individual could affect their spinal health in the same manner through chiropractic, physical therapy, and other modalities. With the lack of evidence supporting the current mechanical-based therapies, this new hypothesis - based around epigenetics and its potential to empower the patient by emphasizing how what you do affects your health - has no more or less validity than the old, conventional way of thinking.

"The etiologic, and potentially therapeutic, problem is to establish in each AIS [patient], which process(es), in what pathway(s), is/are abnormal or exacerbating the deformity." It is highly unlikely that the cause of scoliosis is the absence of rods in the spine, or the patient's clothing is not rigid or constricting enough. Although it may mean swimming against the current and going against popular belief, advancing our understanding of the cause of scoliosis can only help us to develop better clinical rehabilitation strategies. Despite the past inattention, it is hoped that this new article by Burwell et al will be the first of many to explore scoliosis in a new light, and that the promise offered by epigenetics to revolutionize scoliosis treatment will be realized in the decade to come.

About Dr Kevin Lau

Dr Kevin Lau DC is the founder of Health In Your Hands, a series of tools for Scoliosis prevention and treatment. The set includes his book Your Plan for Natural Scoliosis Prevention and Treatment, a companion Scoliosis Exercises for Prevention and Correction DVD and the innovative new iPhone application ScolioTrack. Dr Kevin Lau is a graduate in Doctor of Chiropractic from RMIT University in Melbourne Australia and Masters in Holistic Nutrition. He is a member of International Society On Scoliosis Orthopaedic and Rehabilitation Treatment (SOSORT), the leading international society on conservative treatment of spinal deformities. In 2006 I was awarded the "Best Health-care Provider Awards" by the largest Newspaper publication in Singapore on October 18 2006 as well as being interviewed on Primetime Channel News Asia as well as other TV and Radio. For more information on Dr Kevin Lau, watch his interviews or get a free sneak peek of his book, go to: http://www.hiyh.info.

Written by Dr. A. Joshua Woggon, Copyright 2012.

"Research is to see what everybody else has seen, and to think what no one else has thought."

-Albert Szent-Gyorgi, Nobel Prize Winner & Discoverer of Vitamin C


The role that genetics plays in the development of scoliosis remains controversial. While it cannot be disputed that scoliosis does have a familial component (people who have a family member with scoliosis are more likely to have it themselves), the fact that identical twins do not always share the disease of scoliosis emphasizes the role that other, non-genetic factors play in the development of scoliosis.

This topic was recently explored in detail by four of the most highly respected researchers in the field of scoliosis, including the foremost experts on the etiology (cause) of scoliosis, Burwell & Dangerfield, and the current editor-in-chief of the Scoliosis journal, Theodoros Grivas. The article, entitled Adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS), environment, exposome, and epigenetics: a molecular perspective of postnatal normal spinal growth and the etiopathogenesis of AIS with consideration of a network approach and possible implications for medical therapy, was recently published in the journal Scoliosis, and is the first research endeavor to explore the role of epigenetics in scoliosis.

Epigenetics, while as complex as genetics if not moreso, can be summarized simply as the study of the environmental factors which regulate genetic expression. Through the process of methylation, genes can be "turned on" or "turned off" in response to these factors. Thus, an individual with a family history of cancer and who is at high risk for developing cancer themselves can modify their diet & lifestyle, which will actually re-write their genetic code to reduce their chances of developing cancer.

Due to the gaps in our understanding of what causes scoliosis, the traditional approaches of bracing & surgery can only aim at treating the effects of scoliosis; most notably, Cobb angle. Bracing & scoliosis surgery are mechanical in nature; they do not involve rehabilitation of the neurological systems of the body, and they do not claim to address what caused the scoliosis to develop in the first place. They merely respond to the presence of a lateral curvature of the spine by attempting to force it back into place.

The lack of research on the causes of scoliosis is, in part, driven by the sociopolitical forces which prevail and continue to promote bracing & surgery as the only solutions. In the last decade, epigenetics has revolutionized the way in which we understand many diseases. Unfortunately, this has not been the case for scoliosis, where "there are only sporadic reports suggesting that environmental factors are at work in etiology. [E]pigenetics does not figure in any causal analysis of postnatal normal spinal growth, or in the etiopathogenesis of AIS. This reflects current scientific opinion that genetic rather than environmental factors determine the etiology of AIS in accordance with the genetic variant hypothesis of disease."

In short, there is a very real possibility that environmental forces may play a larger role in the development and progression of scoliosis than genetic factors, but due to the current dogma, this possibility is simply not being explored in the United States.

One of the possible environmental factors which could play a role in scoliosis is "environmental effects induced in the spine by physical exercises." Unfortunately, this was not explored in this paper, and remains unknown and unresearched.

It is not unreasonable, in the face of evidence proving that an individual's genetic risk for cancer can be reduced through diet & lifestyle changes, to propose that an individual could affect their spinal health in the same manner through chiropractic, physical therapy, and other modalities. With the lack of evidence supporting the current mechanical-based therapies, this new hypothesis - based around epigenetics and its potential to empower the patient by emphasizing how what you do affects your health - has no more or less validity than the old, conventional way of thinking.

"The etiologic, and potentially therapeutic, problem is to establish in each AIS [patient], which process(es), in what pathway(s), is/are abnormal or exacerbating the deformity." It is highly unlikely that the cause of scoliosis is the absence of rods in the spine, or the patient's clothing is not rigid or constricting enough. Although it may mean swimming against the current and going against popular belief, advancing our understanding of the cause of scoliosis can only help us to develop better clinical rehabilitation strategies. Despite the past inattention, it is hoped that this new article by Burwell et al will be the first of many to explore scoliosis in a new light, and that the promise offered by epigenetics to revolutionize scoliosis treatment will be realized in the decade to come.

About Dr Kevin Lau

Dr Kevin Lau DC is the founder of Health In Your Hands, a series of tools for Scoliosis prevention and treatment. The set includes his book Your Plan for Natural Scoliosis Prevention and Treatment, a companion Scoliosis Exercises for Prevention and Correction DVD and the innovative new iPhone application ScolioTrack. Dr Kevin Lau is a graduate in Doctor of Chiropractic from RMIT University in Melbourne Australia and Masters in Holistic Nutrition. He is a member of International Society On Scoliosis Orthopaedic and Rehabilitation Treatment (SOSORT), the leading international society on conservative treatment of spinal deformities. In 2006 I was awarded the "Best Health-care Provider Awards" by the largest Newspaper publication in Singapore on October 18 2006 as well as being interviewed on Primetime Channel News Asia as well as other TV and Radio. For more information on Dr Kevin Lau, watch his interviews or get a free sneak peek of his book, go to: http://www.hiyh.info.

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Fecal parasites in cats

Lucio-Forster A and Bowman DD. Prevalence of fecal-borne parasites detected by centrifugal flotation in feline samples from two shelters in upstate New York. J Feline Med Surg. 2011; 13: 300-3.

Coccidia oocysts in a cat with diarrhea

Fecal samples from 1,322 cats from two shelters and affiliated foster homes in New York were processed for parasite detection over a 3.5-year period. All samples were processed by both zinc sulfate and sugar double centrifugal flotation. In slightly over half of the samples (50.9%), at least one parasite was detected upon microscopic examination. At least 18 different parasites ranging from 0.2% to 21% in prevalence were recovered in the process. The two most prevalent parasites in this study were Cystoisopora species and Toxocara cati (each had a prevalence of 21%). The next most prevalent was Giardia species cysts at 8.9%, followed by Aelurostrongylus abstrusus (the cat lungworm) at 6.2%. The remaining parasites were each found in less than 4% of the samples: taeniids, Cryptosporidium species, Ancylostoma species, Cheyletiella species, Dipylidium caninum, Otodectes species, Toxoplasma gondii, Sarcocystis species, Demodex and Spirometra species, Alaria species, and Felicola subrostratus. The study results indicate prevalence determination based solely on fecal examination is likely to underestimate the true prevalence of infection in the population. Many of the parasites detected in the study are acquired by predation, which is even possible in owned cats that have outdoor access or the potential for visits from mice, voles, and other transport hosts (fleas, etc.). These findings would support the recommendations that all pets, even those under routine veterinary care, should have at least one fecal examination and should be placed on year-around prevention for internal and external parasites. [VT]

Related articles:
Queen EV, Marks SL and Farver TB. Prevalence of selected bacterial and parasitic agents in feces from diarrheic and healthy control cats from Northern California. J Vet Intern Med. 2012; 26: 54-60.

More on cat health:
Winn Feline Foundation Library
Find us on Facebook
Follow us on Twitter
Sign up for our e-newsletter

Lucio-Forster A and Bowman DD. Prevalence of fecal-borne parasites detected by centrifugal flotation in feline samples from two shelters in upstate New York. J Feline Med Surg. 2011; 13: 300-3.

Coccidia oocysts in a cat with diarrhea

Fecal samples from 1,322 cats from two shelters and affiliated foster homes in New York were processed for parasite detection over a 3.5-year period. All samples were processed by both zinc sulfate and sugar double centrifugal flotation. In slightly over half of the samples (50.9%), at least one parasite was detected upon microscopic examination. At least 18 different parasites ranging from 0.2% to 21% in prevalence were recovered in the process. The two most prevalent parasites in this study were Cystoisopora species and Toxocara cati (each had a prevalence of 21%). The next most prevalent was Giardia species cysts at 8.9%, followed by Aelurostrongylus abstrusus (the cat lungworm) at 6.2%. The remaining parasites were each found in less than 4% of the samples: taeniids, Cryptosporidium species, Ancylostoma species, Cheyletiella species, Dipylidium caninum, Otodectes species, Toxoplasma gondii, Sarcocystis species, Demodex and Spirometra species, Alaria species, and Felicola subrostratus. The study results indicate prevalence determination based solely on fecal examination is likely to underestimate the true prevalence of infection in the population. Many of the parasites detected in the study are acquired by predation, which is even possible in owned cats that have outdoor access or the potential for visits from mice, voles, and other transport hosts (fleas, etc.). These findings would support the recommendations that all pets, even those under routine veterinary care, should have at least one fecal examination and should be placed on year-around prevention for internal and external parasites. [VT]

Related articles:
Queen EV, Marks SL and Farver TB. Prevalence of selected bacterial and parasitic agents in feces from diarrheic and healthy control cats from Northern California. J Vet Intern Med. 2012; 26: 54-60.

More on cat health:
Winn Feline Foundation Library
Find us on Facebook
Follow us on Twitter
Sign up for our e-newsletter

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Hot 'n' Healthy: Ripped at 68, weightlifter pushes all ages to hit the gym

By Chris Thompson 

Ripped at 68

At age 68, Tony O’Connor is as sharp mentally as he is physically. A retired engineer, he has been a competitive bodybuilder and personal trainer for 47 years. He is quick to tell you he is still learning and goes online every day to do research to better serve his clients.

His clients range in age from 10 to 85. O’Connor likes to say, “It is never too soon or never too late.”

With a diverse client base, O’Connor adheres to doctors’ instructions and adapts his training sessions to accommodate clients with shoulder or back injuries, scoliosis, diabetes, pregnancy, etc.

Cheri Acreed, 62, was diagnosed with polymyalgia rheumatica, which causes musculoskeletal pain. She has taken several serious falls and attributes no broken bones to the flexibility and lean muscle mass she has developed while training with O’Connor.

“Since being diagnosed two years ago, Tony is the best thing that has happened to me physically and mentally,” Acreed says.

Originally from Birmingham, England, O’Connor weighed 125 lbs. at age 20. That was in 1963, and there were only gyms for boxing in England at that time — weightliftng was not an option. So he bought a small set of weights, began lifting on his own and never looked back.

He has won more competitions than we could list here, including at age 65, when he won the Bodybuilders.com “Over 40 Amateur of the Year.” This competition included male competitive bodybuilders from 16 countries.

O’Connor and his wife, Mary Ann, promote the Southern Isles Bodybuilding, Figure and Wheelchair Championships that take place annually in Savannah. For more information, go to southernislesbb.com.

Asked about weightlifting for seniors, O’Connor explained that people begin to lose lean muscle mass at age 35. Cardio is important, but weight bearing exercises promote lean muscle mass and are good for the heart and bones.

O’Connor says nutrition is different for everyone. He specializes in personal nutrition programs by balancing proteins and carbohydrates to feed lean muscle. When preparing for a bodybuilding competition, he manipulates his own diet to reach 2 percent body fat.

He says most people think they drink enough water, but they don’t. Drinking the right amount of water is key to building lean muscle and losing water weight.

O’Connor’s physique and accomplishments can be intimidating, but he’s actually a nice guy. If you are intimidated by physical fitness, his advice is: “Set a small goal and reach it. Then set another small goal and another. You will achieve lean muscle mass and lose body fat no matter your age or physical capabilities.”

If you want more information about O’Connor’s personal workout log, visitwww.bodybuilding.com and search for Tony O’Connor. You can contact O’Connor at the Islands Family YMCA, 912-897-1192.

ABOUT THIS SERIES

Many adults do not exercise because
of age and illness when, in fact, exercise may be the best medicine for you.
Research shows exercise can help
boost heart health, maintain a healthy
mind and body, keep joints flexible
and improve balance to minimize falls.
In our “Age is Just a Number” series,
we will introduce you to Hot ’n’ Healthy seniors who will inspire you whether you
are young or old.

About Dr Kevin Lau

Dr Kevin Lau DC is the founder of Health In Your Hands, a series of tools for Scoliosis prevention and treatment. The set includes his book Your Plan for Natural Scoliosis Prevention and Treatment, a companion Scoliosis Exercises for Prevention and Correction DVD and the innovative new iPhone application ScolioTrack. Dr Kevin Lau is a graduate in Doctor of Chiropractic from RMIT University in Melbourne Australia and Masters in Holistic Nutrition. He is a member of International Society On Scoliosis Orthopaedic and Rehabilitation Treatment (SOSORT), the leading international society on conservative treatment of spinal deformities. In 2006 I was awarded the "Best Health-care Provider Awards" by the largest Newspaper publication in Singapore on October 18 2006 as well as being interviewed on Primetime Channel News Asia as well as other TV and Radio. For more information on Dr Kevin Lau, watch his interviews or get a free sneak peek of his book, go to: http://www.hiyh.info.

By Chris Thompson 

Ripped at 68

At age 68, Tony O’Connor is as sharp mentally as he is physically. A retired engineer, he has been a competitive bodybuilder and personal trainer for 47 years. He is quick to tell you he is still learning and goes online every day to do research to better serve his clients.

His clients range in age from 10 to 85. O’Connor likes to say, “It is never too soon or never too late.”

With a diverse client base, O’Connor adheres to doctors’ instructions and adapts his training sessions to accommodate clients with shoulder or back injuries, scoliosis, diabetes, pregnancy, etc.

Cheri Acreed, 62, was diagnosed with polymyalgia rheumatica, which causes musculoskeletal pain. She has taken several serious falls and attributes no broken bones to the flexibility and lean muscle mass she has developed while training with O’Connor.

“Since being diagnosed two years ago, Tony is the best thing that has happened to me physically and mentally,” Acreed says.

Originally from Birmingham, England, O’Connor weighed 125 lbs. at age 20. That was in 1963, and there were only gyms for boxing in England at that time — weightliftng was not an option. So he bought a small set of weights, began lifting on his own and never looked back.

He has won more competitions than we could list here, including at age 65, when he won the Bodybuilders.com “Over 40 Amateur of the Year.” This competition included male competitive bodybuilders from 16 countries.

O’Connor and his wife, Mary Ann, promote the Southern Isles Bodybuilding, Figure and Wheelchair Championships that take place annually in Savannah. For more information, go to southernislesbb.com.

Asked about weightlifting for seniors, O’Connor explained that people begin to lose lean muscle mass at age 35. Cardio is important, but weight bearing exercises promote lean muscle mass and are good for the heart and bones.

O’Connor says nutrition is different for everyone. He specializes in personal nutrition programs by balancing proteins and carbohydrates to feed lean muscle. When preparing for a bodybuilding competition, he manipulates his own diet to reach 2 percent body fat.

He says most people think they drink enough water, but they don’t. Drinking the right amount of water is key to building lean muscle and losing water weight.

O’Connor’s physique and accomplishments can be intimidating, but he’s actually a nice guy. If you are intimidated by physical fitness, his advice is: “Set a small goal and reach it. Then set another small goal and another. You will achieve lean muscle mass and lose body fat no matter your age or physical capabilities.”

If you want more information about O’Connor’s personal workout log, visitwww.bodybuilding.com and search for Tony O’Connor. You can contact O’Connor at the Islands Family YMCA, 912-897-1192.

ABOUT THIS SERIES

Many adults do not exercise because
of age and illness when, in fact, exercise may be the best medicine for you.
Research shows exercise can help
boost heart health, maintain a healthy
mind and body, keep joints flexible
and improve balance to minimize falls.
In our “Age is Just a Number” series,
we will introduce you to Hot ’n’ Healthy seniors who will inspire you whether you
are young or old.

About Dr Kevin Lau

Dr Kevin Lau DC is the founder of Health In Your Hands, a series of tools for Scoliosis prevention and treatment. The set includes his book Your Plan for Natural Scoliosis Prevention and Treatment, a companion Scoliosis Exercises for Prevention and Correction DVD and the innovative new iPhone application ScolioTrack. Dr Kevin Lau is a graduate in Doctor of Chiropractic from RMIT University in Melbourne Australia and Masters in Holistic Nutrition. He is a member of International Society On Scoliosis Orthopaedic and Rehabilitation Treatment (SOSORT), the leading international society on conservative treatment of spinal deformities. In 2006 I was awarded the "Best Health-care Provider Awards" by the largest Newspaper publication in Singapore on October 18 2006 as well as being interviewed on Primetime Channel News Asia as well as other TV and Radio. For more information on Dr Kevin Lau, watch his interviews or get a free sneak peek of his book, go to: http://www.hiyh.info.

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Rabies in the United States in 2010

Blanton JD, Palmer D, Dyer J and Rupprecht CE. Rabies surveillance in the United States during 2010. J Am Vet Med Assoc. 2011; 239: 773-83.

Rabies vaccination in El Salvador

Rabies continues to be a worldwide problem and an important public health concern. In the U.S., wildlife is the most important source of the causative virus, but spillover into domestic species does occur. This report summarizes the occurrences of rabies in the U.S. during 2010. During that year, 48 states and Puerto Rico reported 6,154 rabid animals and 2 human rabies cases to the Centers for Disease Control, representing an 8% decrease from the 6,690 rabid animals and 4 human cases reported in 2009. Hawaii and Mississippi did not report any laboratory-confirmed rabid animals during 2010. Approximately 92% of reported rabid animals were wildlife species. Relative contributions by the major animal groups were as follows: 2,246 raccoons (36.5%), 1,448 skunks (23.5%), 1,430 bats (23.2%), 429 foxes (6.9%), 303 cats (4.9%), 71 cattle (1.1%), and 69 dogs (1.1%). Interestingly, compared to 2009, rabies decreased in all species except cats, where there was a 1% increase. This reinforces the importance of vaccination of all cats against rabies. Two cases of rabies involving humans were reported from Louisiana and Wisconsin in 2010. Louisiana reported an imported human rabies case involving a 19-year-old male migrant farm worker who had a history of a vampire bat (Desmodus rotundus) bite received while in Mexico. This represents the first human rabies case reported in the U.S. confirmed to have been caused by a vampire bat rabies virus variant. [MK]

Related articles: 
Compendium of animal rabies prevention and control, 2011. National Association of State Public Health Veterinarians, Inc. MMWR Recomm Rep. 2011 Nov 4;60(RR-6):1-17. Free full text article.

More on cat health:
Winn Feline Foundation Library
Find us on Facebook
Follow us on Twitter

Blanton JD, Palmer D, Dyer J and Rupprecht CE. Rabies surveillance in the United States during 2010. J Am Vet Med Assoc. 2011; 239: 773-83.

Rabies vaccination in El Salvador

Rabies continues to be a worldwide problem and an important public health concern. In the U.S., wildlife is the most important source of the causative virus, but spillover into domestic species does occur. This report summarizes the occurrences of rabies in the U.S. during 2010. During that year, 48 states and Puerto Rico reported 6,154 rabid animals and 2 human rabies cases to the Centers for Disease Control, representing an 8% decrease from the 6,690 rabid animals and 4 human cases reported in 2009. Hawaii and Mississippi did not report any laboratory-confirmed rabid animals during 2010. Approximately 92% of reported rabid animals were wildlife species. Relative contributions by the major animal groups were as follows: 2,246 raccoons (36.5%), 1,448 skunks (23.5%), 1,430 bats (23.2%), 429 foxes (6.9%), 303 cats (4.9%), 71 cattle (1.1%), and 69 dogs (1.1%). Interestingly, compared to 2009, rabies decreased in all species except cats, where there was a 1% increase. This reinforces the importance of vaccination of all cats against rabies. Two cases of rabies involving humans were reported from Louisiana and Wisconsin in 2010. Louisiana reported an imported human rabies case involving a 19-year-old male migrant farm worker who had a history of a vampire bat (Desmodus rotundus) bite received while in Mexico. This represents the first human rabies case reported in the U.S. confirmed to have been caused by a vampire bat rabies virus variant. [MK]

Related articles: 
Compendium of animal rabies prevention and control, 2011. National Association of State Public Health Veterinarians, Inc. MMWR Recomm Rep. 2011 Nov 4;60(RR-6):1-17. Free full text article.

More on cat health:
Winn Feline Foundation Library
Find us on Facebook
Follow us on Twitter

Read More

Study: Anatomic Patterns Could Influence Appropriate Scoliosis Treatments

Written by  Kathleen Roney | February 06, 2012

According to a study published in Spine, different anatomic patterns of proximal thoracic curves could cause different altered positions of the esophagus relative to the spine and result in different potential risks of esophageal injuries during thoracic pedicle screw insertion.

Researchers took axial CT images from 20 patients with complete proximal thoracic curve, 22 patients with fractional proximal thoracic curve and 14 normal patients to evaluate the changed relative positions of esophagus in proximal thoracic curves of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis patients.

Key findings include:

•    Esophagus-vertebral angle was significantly smaller than that in the  normal group
•    EVA in the complete proximal thoracic group was significantly greater than in the normal group at each level.
•    The esophagus was at a high risk of injury with right anterior penetrated TPS in the CPT group.
•    Spine surgeons should choose appropriate pedicle screw length to avoid anterior cortical perforation in the PT region of AIS patients. 

About Dr Kevin Lau

Dr Kevin Lau DC is the founder of Health In Your Hands, a series of tools for Scoliosis prevention and treatment. The set includes his book Your Plan for Natural Scoliosis Prevention and Treatment, a companion Scoliosis Exercises for Prevention and Correction DVD and the innovative new iPhone application ScolioTrack. Dr Kevin Lau is a graduate in Doctor of Chiropractic from RMIT University in Melbourne Australia and Masters in Holistic Nutrition. He is a member of International Society On Scoliosis Orthopaedic and Rehabilitation Treatment (SOSORT), the leading international society on conservative treatment of spinal deformities. In 2006 I was awarded the "Best Health-care Provider Awards" by the largest Newspaper publication in Singapore on October 18 2006 as well as being interviewed on Primetime Channel News Asia as well as other TV and Radio. For more information on Dr Kevin Lau, watch his interviews or get a free sneak peek of his book, go to: http://www.hiyh.info.

Written by  Kathleen Roney | February 06, 2012

According to a study published in Spine, different anatomic patterns of proximal thoracic curves could cause different altered positions of the esophagus relative to the spine and result in different potential risks of esophageal injuries during thoracic pedicle screw insertion.

Researchers took axial CT images from 20 patients with complete proximal thoracic curve, 22 patients with fractional proximal thoracic curve and 14 normal patients to evaluate the changed relative positions of esophagus in proximal thoracic curves of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis patients.

Key findings include:

•    Esophagus-vertebral angle was significantly smaller than that in the  normal group
•    EVA in the complete proximal thoracic group was significantly greater than in the normal group at each level.
•    The esophagus was at a high risk of injury with right anterior penetrated TPS in the CPT group.
•    Spine surgeons should choose appropriate pedicle screw length to avoid anterior cortical perforation in the PT region of AIS patients. 

About Dr Kevin Lau

Dr Kevin Lau DC is the founder of Health In Your Hands, a series of tools for Scoliosis prevention and treatment. The set includes his book Your Plan for Natural Scoliosis Prevention and Treatment, a companion Scoliosis Exercises for Prevention and Correction DVD and the innovative new iPhone application ScolioTrack. Dr Kevin Lau is a graduate in Doctor of Chiropractic from RMIT University in Melbourne Australia and Masters in Holistic Nutrition. He is a member of International Society On Scoliosis Orthopaedic and Rehabilitation Treatment (SOSORT), the leading international society on conservative treatment of spinal deformities. In 2006 I was awarded the "Best Health-care Provider Awards" by the largest Newspaper publication in Singapore on October 18 2006 as well as being interviewed on Primetime Channel News Asia as well as other TV and Radio. For more information on Dr Kevin Lau, watch his interviews or get a free sneak peek of his book, go to: http://www.hiyh.info.

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