Scoliosis and Foot Issues: Impact and Treatment Options

Scoliosis and Foot Problems

Hello Doctor, thank you for taking the time to read my question.
I have had uneven shoulders since I was 12 years old, but I didn't pay much attention to it.
It wasn't until I was 19 that I went to see a specialist about my spine, and I found out that my spine is curved by 20 degrees and I have issues with uneven shoulders.
My body weight has been leaning to the left for a long time, and recently I have been trying to shift my weight to the right.
I noticed that my legs feel different when walking, but there is no pain.
Later, I followed some methods I found online and printed out footprints of both feet, discovering that the back of my left foot is wider than that of my right foot, although I do not have flat feet.
My question is, has my long-term weight bearing on the left side caused my left foot to deteriorate faster? If I seek medical attention, are there ways to slow down aging or improve my left foot? Should I go to an orthopedic specialist for an X-ray, or can I consult directly with a rehabilitation specialist? Thank you, Doctor.

Ms. Hsu, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/09/16

Dr. Chen Bochen reply Orthopedics

Hello, Ms.
Hsu.

1.
To assess the pressure on both feet, it is best to use a professional pressure plate for testing (manufacturers specializing in orthotics and insoles will have this), or visit a medical center with gait analysis and motion analysis laboratories (such as Dr.
Kuo Chien-Chung at China Medical University Hospital).
Simply stepping on paper is not very accurate.

2.
If there is prolonged pressure on one side, that side will indeed degenerate more quickly.

3.
The best way to slow down aging is to activate the body's adaptive capabilities by stretching more (yoga) and strengthening muscles, especially the core (weight training, Pilates).

4.
No one's body is perfectly aligned, but most people do not experience pain because the body has an inherent ability to regulate and adapt.
Individuals with poor adaptability (unhealthy lifestyle, lack of exercise) tend to feel discomfort with even slight misalignments, while those with good adaptability can have significant spinal deviations without symptoms.

5.
The Rehabilitation Department can also perform X-rays.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2020/09/16

More Info

Scoliosis, a condition characterized by an abnormal lateral curvature of the spine, can have a significant impact on various aspects of physical health, including foot mechanics and overall posture. Your experience with scoliosis and the subsequent changes in your foot structure and function is not uncommon. The uneven distribution of weight and pressure on your feet due to the spinal curvature can lead to compensatory changes, which may manifest as differences in foot width, arch height, and overall foot function.

Understanding the Impact of Scoliosis on Foot Health
When the spine is misaligned, it can alter the way weight is distributed across the body. In your case, with a 20-degree curvature and a tendency to shift your weight to the left, it is plausible that your left foot is bearing more load over time. This can lead to several issues, including:
1. Foot Deformities: As you noted, the left foot may appear wider at the back, which could indicate changes in the foot's structure due to increased pressure and usage. This can lead to conditions such as bunions or other deformities over time.

2. Muscle Imbalances: The muscles in your legs and feet may develop imbalances due to the uneven distribution of weight. This can affect your gait and lead to further complications, such as knee or hip pain.

3. Increased Wear and Tear: The foot that bears more weight may experience accelerated wear and tear, leading to conditions like plantar fasciitis or heel pain.

Treatment Options
To address your concerns, there are several avenues you can explore:
1. Consultation with Specialists: It is advisable to consult with both an orthopedic specialist and a physical therapist. An orthopedic doctor can assess your spinal curvature and its implications on your foot structure, possibly recommending imaging studies like X-rays to evaluate the extent of the curvature and any related issues. A physical therapist can help you develop a tailored exercise program to strengthen the muscles supporting your spine and feet, improve your posture, and enhance overall balance.

2. Footwear and Orthotics: Proper footwear is crucial. Shoes that provide adequate support and cushioning can help alleviate some of the pressure on your feet. Custom orthotics may also be beneficial, as they can help redistribute weight more evenly across your feet and provide additional support where needed.

3. Strengthening and Stretching Exercises: Engaging in exercises that focus on strengthening the core, back, and lower extremities can help improve your posture and reduce the compensatory load on your feet. Stretching exercises can also help maintain flexibility and prevent stiffness.

4. Postural Training: Working on your posture through physical therapy can help you learn to distribute your weight more evenly, which may alleviate some of the issues you are experiencing with your feet.

5. Regular Monitoring: Given that you are aware of the changes in your body, regular follow-ups with healthcare professionals can help monitor any progression of your condition and adjust your treatment plan as necessary.

Conclusion
In summary, your concerns regarding the impact of scoliosis on your foot health are valid. It is essential to take a proactive approach by consulting with both orthopedic and rehabilitation specialists to develop a comprehensive treatment plan. This plan should focus on addressing the underlying issues related to your scoliosis while also providing strategies to improve foot function and overall mobility. By doing so, you can work towards mitigating any potential long-term effects on your feet and enhancing your quality of life.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Foot Pain, Scoliosis, and Pelvic Misalignment: A Holistic Approach

Hello, Doctor! I am 19 years old. During the summer vacation two years ago, I wore slightly high sandals while going out. Although I felt a prickling sensation, I thought it was due to a foreign object in my shoe, so I didn't pay much attention. However, a few months later, ...

Dr. He Yujun reply Traditional Chinese Medicine
Frequent dislocation of bones can be attributed not only to poor posture but also to constitutional issues. Qi deficiency can lead to weakness in muscles and ligaments, resulting in inadequate stabilization of bones, which may dislocate with minimal exertion. Yin deficiency can r...

Understanding Scoliosis: Treatment Options and Surgery Considerations

What are the treatment methods for scoliosis (with pain)? Is surgery necessary? Can it be cured?

Dr. Wang Zikang reply Orthopedics
The severity of scoliosis is determined by the degree of curvature and whether it affects lung function. The muscle imbalance caused by the curvature can exacerbate pain in the shoulders, back, and lower back, and may sometimes lead to difficulties in sitting posture. If these sy...

Can Surgery Correct Bow Legs? Exploring Treatment Options and Risks

Hello Doctor: I have had a condition known as "out-toeing" since childhood. I would like to ask if there are surgical options or other methods to treat this condition, as it makes walking inconvenient and causes me to sway from side to side. If I were to undergo surgery...

Dr. Pan Yingda reply Rehabilitation
I believe that having flat feet does not necessarily correlate with walking in a swaying manner (it is more related to the gluteus medius). Surgery may not necessarily be helpful. You could visit a nearby rehabilitation department, orthopedic clinic, or sports medicine department...

Understanding Scoliosis: Causes, Consequences, and Treatment Options

Hello, I would like to ask about issues related to scoliosis. I heard that if a male has a scoliosis greater than 15 degrees, he is exempt from military service (although this has been abolished). I would like to know what problems and consequences can arise if the curvature is g...

Dr. Wang Shouji reply Orthopedics
Most cases of scoliosis have an unknown cause. In adults, if the curvature is between 15-35 degrees, only symptomatic treatment is necessary. If the curvature exceeds 35-40 degrees, surgery may be required. There is no definitive treatment that can "cure" scoliosis; it ...