Scoliosis
Scoliosis is an abnormal sideways curve of the spine that can affect posture, mobility, and overall comfort. While many cases are mild, the uneven alignment often leads to stiffness, muscle imbalance, and fatigue in the mid-back or upper back. Over time, this can make standing tall, rotating, or breathing deeply more difficult. At KIRO, we focus on restoring motion, reducing tension around the curve, and teaching strategies that help you move and feel better within your unique spinal alignment.
Why does scoliosis occur?
Scoliosis can occur for different reasons depending on age and spine health. In adolescents, most cases are idiopathic scoliosis, meaning the exact cause is unknown but genetics and growth patterns play a role. In adults, scoliosis often develops from degenerative changes in the discs and joints, leading to curvature over time. Both types create uneven spinal alignment, which can affect posture, mobility, and comfort.
What are the common symptoms with scoliosis?
Common symptoms of scoliosis include uneven shoulders or hips, a visible rib hump, and mid-back or upper-back stiffness. Many people also notice posture fatigue when standing, limited rotation, or aching muscles around the curve. In some cases, nerve irritation may cause pain, numbness, or tingling.
Who is most at risk of getting scoliosis?
Scoliosis most often develops during adolescent growth spurts, especially in those with a family history of spinal curvature. Adults can also be at risk as discs and joints wear down, leading to degenerative scoliosis. Jobs or activities that involve prolonged asymmetric postures, like hairstyling, mechanics, or heavy one-sided lifting, may aggravate symptoms.
How do KIRO doctors treat scoliosis?
At KIRO, treatment for scoliosis begins with a detailed exam to understand your unique curve pattern. In the early phase (typically 1–2 visits per week), our chiropractors use precise adjustments to improve mobility in restricted areas of the spine and rib joints while easing tension in overworked muscles.
Your personalized plan also includes targeted exercises such as thoracic and rib mobility drills, scapular strengthening, and breathing techniques that expand the concave side of the curve. We may also guide you on posture strategies and ergonomic changes to reduce daily strain.
To ensure progress, we perform monthly Nervous System Scans and rotate doctors during your care so you benefit from multiple expert perspectives. When needed, we coordinate with medical providers for bracing or orthopedic input, ensuring a comprehensive approach to managing scoliosis.
How long does it take to fix scoliosis?
Chiropractic care doesn’t “fix” or straighten a scoliosis curve, but it can improve comfort, mobility, and posture tolerance. Most patients notice relief within 4–6 weeks, with another 6–8 weeks focused on building strength, symmetry, and endurance, about 12 weeks for stable improvements. Many choose periodic maintenance care to manage symptoms during growth phases or age-related changes.
What are the benefits of chiropractic care for scoliosis?
Benefits of chiropractic care for scoliosis:
Reduces stiffness and muscle imbalance around the curve
Improves posture comfort and alignment tolerance
Enhances spinal mobility and rotation
Eases fatigue from standing or sitting too long
Provides personalized strategies tailored to your curve pattern
Offers a conservative, non-surgical approach to symptom management
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