Scoliosis: C- or S-Shaped Spine That Disrupts Body Balance

Scoliosis is a condition in which the spine curves abnormally in a C or S shape, leading to postural imbalance. It can result from improper body mechanics or be present from birth.

• Functional Scoliosis is caused by poor posture or repetitive strain. For example, students who carry heavy bags and lean to one side can develop spinal curvature over time due to daily uneven weight-bearing.
  
• Structural Scoliosis, present from birth, often becomes more apparent during adolescence. Symptoms include back pain and visibly curved spine.

How to Spot Scoliosis?

Symptoms can vary in severity, but early signs include:

• A visibly curved spine
  
• Uneven shoulders
  
• Uneven shoulder blade prominence
  
• Uneven waist or body leaning to one side
  
• In females, asymmetrical breasts may also be noticeable

Physical Therapy for Scoliosis

At Gaikota, scoliosis patients undergo thorough evaluation, including CT scans or MRI, and possibly laboratory tests. The primary goal is to strengthen the muscles around the spine to help realign and stabilize it, and prevent further curvature. The severity and curvature angle play key roles in determining the treatment approach.

Therapies used include:

• Ultrasound Therapy
  Improves blood circulation and relaxes muscles near the spine.
  
• Shock Wave Therapy
  Reduces pain and stimulates natural healing at injured tissue points.
  
• Spinal Traction
  Relieves tension in spinal muscles and tissues, improves mobility in muscles and joints.
  
• Therapeutic Exercise
  Personalized stretching and strengthening routines are advised based on the curvature pattern to increase flexibility and core strength.

Treatment Based on Degree of Curvature

• Mild curvature (1025 degrees):
  Patients are advised to do physical therapy and exercises, with regular monitoring.
  
• Moderate curvature (2545 degrees):
  A back brace may be recommended, especially for children and adolescents, worn at least 20 hours a day until bone growth is complete.

Integrative Care for Enhanced Results

Besides physical therapy, Gaikota offers integrative treatment to promote recovery and prevent progression. This includes:

• Lifestyle and posture adjustments
  
• Nutritional guidance and vitamin supplementation
  
• Regenerative therapies such as:
  
  • Prolotherapy
    
  • Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Injections
    
  • Biological Peptides (Nucleic Acid)
    
  • Cell-based Therapy for cellular regeneration

Early Intervention Matters

If scoliosis is detected early, effective treatment can lead to positive outcomes:

• Functional scoliosis may fully resolve with correction.
  
• Congenital scoliosis can improve with therapy depending on individual anatomy.
  

Delaying treatment can lead to chronic back pain, poor posture, and psychological effects in adolescents. In severe cases, scoliosis may compress the lungs and heart, leading to breathing difficulties and fatigue.

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