Scoliosis Program
Comprehensive Assessment and Treatment Plan
What is scoliosis?
Scoliosis is described as a torsional deformity of the spine, defined by one or more of the convexities. In order to be classified as scoliosis, there needs to be a cobb angle of >10 degrees (aka “side bend” on an XRAY) WITH rotation of the vertebrae towards the concavity (aka the “compressed” side).
What are some signs of scoliosis?
Head tilt or turn
Uneven shoulders
Uneven waist shape
Pelvic shiftess
Uneven bony prominences
How do we diagnose scoliosis?
We diagnose scoliosis by using a combination of a clinical examination along with checking our findings against your XRAY/EOS scans. For a more detailed explanation, please refer to the comprehensive assessment section.
Types of Scoliosis
20% of cases are secondary to another condition
- Congenital – hemi-vertebrae, spina bifida, etc.
- Neuromuscular – CP, SMA, DMD, etc.
- Syndromic – Marfan’s, Ehler’s Danlos, Muscular Dystrophy, etc.
- Disease – Tumor, TB, Osteoporotic fracture
The other 80% of cases is idiopathic, meaning no known cause. These are defined based on the period of life in which the scoliosis emerged
- Infantile (<2yo)
- Juvenile (3-9yo)
- Adolescent (10-17yo)
- Adult Onset or De Novo (18+)
What causes idiopathic scoliosis?
Some factors include:
- Genetics
- Metabolic and hormonal changes through puberty
- Mechanical and connective tissue abnormalities
- Vitamin D deficiency
- Low bone density
Adolescent idiopathic scoliosis is the most common form of idiopathic scoliosis. It is thought to be multifactorial (like slices in a pie) – meaning for each person the slices will be different.
- Theories center around growth plates closing prematurely during hormonal changes, which can be triggered by any number of factors
Adult onset scoliosis (De Novo) is a type of scoliosis that occurs in adulthood in somebody that did not previously have a scoliosis. This can happen due to uneven spinal degeneration with age and bone density loss (sometimes linked with menopause).
Our dedicated Physiotherapy team have a passion for helping our patients. With a deep understanding of the complexities of spinal health, they are highly skilled and experienced in treating spines and spine-related disorders. Our empathetic and professional team are here to listen and to provide best practice clinical care, tailored to your individual needs.
Why do curves progress? – The Vicious Cycle Theory
Idiopathic curves are thought to progress due to a triggering event causing the Vicious Cycle Theory to kick off. Physiotherapy scoliosis specific exercise (PSSE) and bracing are designed to intervene with this cycle to help slow or halt the progression of the curve.
If you are looking for expert Physiotherapy Treatment or Physio group exercise classes, please make a booking or call us
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Not your typical Physiotherapy Clinic
Modern Facilities
Hands-on approach
highest level of care
non-invasive treatment
commitment to recovery
trust & communication
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If you are looking for Expert Physiotherapy Treatment or Physio Group Exercise classes, please make a booking or call us.
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