Scoliosis means “curvature of the spine”. It is commonly first noticed in childhood or adolescence, and the curve often progresses rapidly as the child grows.
If left untreated it can lead to severe spinal deformity, chronic pain, and early spinal degeneration.
Early detection and treatment leads to better long term results.
As a community service we are offering free spinal screenings here at Empowering Wellness Centre at Burleigh Heads Gold Coast.
Currently, there is no program in our health system for the early detection of scoliosis, and this is why Dr. Chris Ientile is offering this screening as a complementary Community Service.
What are the early signs of scoliosis?
- one shoulder blade that is higher than the other.
- one shoulder blade that sticks out more than the other.
- uneven hips.
- a rotating spine.
- problems breathing because of reduced area in the chest for lungs to expand.
- back pain
Often the first call of attention is a history of scoliosis in the family. But not too often is this brought to relevance in regular paediatric consultations; therefore it is always important to mention this even if no evident signs show. Research has shown that there is a 30% chance kids will develop scoliosis if a family member already has it.
An early and close eye to the matter. What to look at?
Uneven posture is probably the most obvious, but it is not always this obvious and our Chiropractors count with training and a screening tool that provides detail to the screening.
There are other visual signs a child may have scoliosis, such as one hip being more pronounced, one shoulder blade sticking out more, one leg appearing shorter than the other, or the body leaning to one side.
As a parent, you might have noticed that your little one’s clothes don’t fit quite right. Maybe his/her T-shirt hangs unevenly, or the neckline seems be off-center.
In addition, any excess fatigue occurring after long periods of sitting or standing might also be a symptom of scoliosis, as the back muscles have to work harder than usual to keep the body balanced.
Part of the reason why it is sometimes difficult to diagnose scoliosis is that the symptoms, especially early on, are so mild. Children rarely suffer chronic back pain from scoliosis unless the curve becomes very severe, so as a parent it may be easy to let it slip by. Call us for an appointment, our doctors are trained and have years of expierence to clarify your doubts.
