Scoliosis is the abnormal curvature of the spine, and it can be diagnosed by a visit to the chiropractor. It occurs mostly in young women during puberty, so it’s important that girls between the ages of 11 and 20 receive an examination of the spine. The abnormal curve may resemble the letters S or C when you look at the back, and unless the curve is pronounced, it may not be very noticeable. There are also few symptoms associated with scoliosis, although you may experience some pain or fatigue in your back as your spine pulls on the muscles. During the exam, the doctor will look at the spine and check for common signs of scoliosis, such as uneven alignment of the shoulders or ribcage. You may also be asked to bend over and touch your toes so that the doctor can examine the alignment of the spine. X-rays of the spine may also be used to determine if you have an abnormal curve. If you’re diagnosed with scoliosis, the next step is determining the severity of the curve in your spine. If the curve is severe, you may need surgery. Otherwise, you may need to wear a brace and perform special exercises. Correcting scoliosis is important for proper growth and development, but the process can take time. It can take months or even years to correct the spine, so it’s best to be prepared for a long recovery and be patient. Your chiropractor can help relieve pain caused by the condition and help you determine how long treatment may take.

©2006 Crossroads Mobile. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.