Is Chiropractic Safe for Scoliosis?
Is chiropractic care safe for a scoliosis spine?
I might make some people mad with my stance on this.
When you consider a scoliosis spine there are areas that are really flexible and other spots that are stiff and have more trouble moving. If you go to the chiropractor and get adjustments where you hear an audible “pop” that is a manipulation.
The part of your scoliosis that is flexible is the part that is moving and causing the sound you hear. The areas that are stiff, remain unmoving. By causing those flexible spots to move it might make you feel better temporarily, but your curve is getting worse as a result. As those flexible areas move they are deepening your curve.
Other things to consider:
Do you have osteoporosis? Having chiropractic manipulations can cause stress fractures of the vertebrae or your ribs increasing your pain and the degree of your curve.
Are you hypermobile? Do your knees bend backwards? Can you bring your thumb to your forearm? Do your elbows bend backwards? Can your bend forward and touch your hands to the ground?
If you answered yes to these questions, you are hypermobile. This means your joints are more flexible than the average Joe. If you are getting chiropractic adjustments, you can get what’s called “Rebound Effect”. This means, after you get an adjustment and move the position of your vertebrae, your ligaments and muscles tighten severely causing increased pain and trigger points.
All of this is to say, use caution and do your research before beginning any medical treatment for your scoliosis. Find a person who uses scoliosis-specific exercise to treat your condition. Reach out if you need help!
