Scoliosis and it's contribution to back pain has always confused the public. There are a lot of misconceptions as to what the term means.

The spine does most of its' growing between the ages 11-18. Curvature as seen on x-ray does itself not constitute or deserve the diagnosis of Scoliosis. After the age of 18 it is considered to be more of compensation related back pain than calling it Scoliosis. Many times there may not even be any low back or mid back pain associated with the findings.

Scoliosis technically does not begin until there is at least a 25 degree curve. The primary treatments are Chiropractic adjustments, physiotherapy and strengthening of the back muscles and spine.

At 30 degrees a more aggressive approach of rehab is required. At 35 degrees bracing is required and at 40 degrees surgery is a serious consideration due to the affect on the heart and lungs.

At Arizona Spinal Care in Scottsdale we are always stressing early detection in children, especially in females. We then emphasis strengthening and rehabilitation combined with Chiropractic care as a key management tools, as time is of the essence. It also teaches youth the importance of exercise in managing and preventing back pain for life.

One of the newer methods of rehab is Vibration Therapy Exercise which we have been using to treat back pain for the last few months. We have specific protocols for rehab including Scoliosis. Here is a great article regarding that protocol. http://www.theamericanchiropractor.com/articledetail.asp?articleid=1133&... In addition please visit the vibration Therapy section of our website for more details.