Spinal Issues: Do You Really Need to Adjust Scoliosis?

Q: Spinal Issues: Do You Really Need to Adjust Scoliosis?

Hello, Xiaorong： From your tone, you seem to be a young girl rather than an elderly woman! Your discussion focuses on scoliosis. <br>Scoliosis, excluding severe underlying conditions (such as congenital spinal deformities or poliomyelitis), can be categorized into two types that

Regarding the spine..?

Doctor: I previously had severe pain in my spine, to the point where even standing still was painful.
It might have been caused by lifting heavy objects at work.
I went to see a doctor, who told me that my lower spine was curved and protruding.
He said that it definitely needed to be adjusted back into place.
After the treatment, I felt better and the pain was gone, but a few days later, it returned.
I consulted another doctor, who said that it was not necessary to adjust my spine back.
I'm really unsure about what to do.
Dr.
Su, my spine no longer hurts, but does it really need to be adjusted? What are the consequences if it’s not adjusted? I’ve heard that girls with scoliosis can be infertile; is that true? I feel anxious and worried every day.
Please, doctor, tell me...

Xiao Rong, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2004/11/08

Dr. Su Yiren reply Orthopedics

Hello, Xiaorong: From your tone, you seem to be a young girl rather than an elderly woman! Your discussion focuses on scoliosis.
Scoliosis, excluding severe underlying conditions (such as congenital spinal deformities or poliomyelitis), can be categorized into two types that commonly affect the general population: 1.
Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis: This typically occurs during the fourth grade of elementary school to the middle school years.
2.
Degenerative Scoliosis: This develops after middle age due to regular activity and aging, causing a slight pre-existing curvature to progress into a pathological curve.
In Western medicine, treatment is based on the degree of curvature, as shown in the table below:
- Adolescent Type
- 12°-20°: Observation and outpatient follow-up
- 21°-40°: Brace
- >41°: Surgery
As for whether your spine needs further correction, I recommend that you return to your physician to express your concerns, as an in-person evaluation will provide a clearer diagnosis.

Reply Date: 2004/11/08

More Info

Understanding spinal issues, particularly scoliosis, can be quite complex, and it’s understandable that you feel anxious about your condition. Let’s break down your concerns regarding scoliosis and its treatment.

Firstly, scoliosis is a condition characterized by an abnormal lateral curvature of the spine. It can occur in varying degrees of severity, and while some cases are mild and may not require treatment, others can lead to significant discomfort or complications. In your case, it seems that you have experienced pain associated with your spinal alignment, which is a common symptom in individuals with scoliosis.

Regarding the necessity of adjusting or correcting scoliosis, it largely depends on the severity of the curvature and the symptoms it produces. If your curvature is mild and you are not experiencing pain or functional limitations, many healthcare providers may recommend a watchful waiting approach rather than aggressive treatment. However, if the curvature is moderate to severe, or if it is causing pain or affecting your quality of life, then intervention may be warranted.

The fact that you have experienced pain relief after treatment suggests that there may have been a mechanical component to your discomfort, possibly related to muscle strain or joint dysfunction rather than the curvature itself. It’s not uncommon for individuals with scoliosis to experience pain due to muscle imbalances or compensatory movements rather than the curvature directly.

As for the concern about whether scoliosis can lead to infertility, there is no direct evidence to support this claim. Scoliosis itself does not affect reproductive organs or function. However, severe cases of scoliosis can lead to complications that might indirectly affect overall health and well-being, which could influence fertility. It’s essential to focus on maintaining a healthy lifestyle, managing any pain, and addressing any concerns with a healthcare provider.

If you are still experiencing discomfort or have concerns about your spinal alignment, it may be beneficial to seek a second opinion from a specialist, such as an orthopedic surgeon or a physical therapist who specializes in spinal conditions. They can provide a thorough evaluation and discuss potential treatment options, which may include physical therapy, bracing, or in some cases, surgery, depending on the severity of the curvature and associated symptoms.

In terms of management, maintaining a strong core and back muscles through targeted exercises can help support your spine and alleviate discomfort. Additionally, practicing good posture and ergonomics, especially if your work involves lifting heavy objects, is crucial in preventing further strain on your back.

In summary, whether or not to adjust scoliosis depends on various factors, including the severity of the curvature and the presence of symptoms. It’s essential to have open communication with your healthcare providers, seek second opinions if necessary, and focus on maintaining overall spinal health through exercise and proper body mechanics. If you have any further questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to reach out to a healthcare professional who can provide personalized advice based on your specific situation.

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