Scoliosis Care in Peachtree City
A school screening flags a possible curve, and suddenly you’re up late reading about braces and surgery. Or perhaps you’re an adult who was told about a mild curve years ago and is now wondering whether it has anything to do with the back, neck or shoulder discomfort you’re experiencing. At Davis Chiropractic Center, we take a closer look at the curve, how you’re moving and what the findings actually mean for you or your child.
A Curve on the X-Ray Is Only Part of the Picture
Scoliosis is a sideways curvature of the spine that may also involve rotation. X-rays can be used to confirm and measure a suspected curve, including its Cobb angle. What those findings mean depends on factors such as the degree of the curve and the person’s age. For a growing child or teenager, monitoring the curve over time may be particularly relevant.
Family History Can Be an Important Clue
Uneven Shoulders, a Raised Rib and Other Signs
Some people have a noticeable curve but function very well. Others may have physical changes or symptoms such as:
- One shoulder sitting higher than the other
- One hip appearing higher
- A rib that is more prominent on one side
- Back, neck or shoulder discomfort
- Rib discomfort
- That’s why the X-ray is only one piece of the evaluation.
X-Rays Plus a Look at How You Move
When appropriate, on-site digital X-rays allow us to evaluate the curve and rotation. We also look at shoulder and hip height, rib position, family history and, just as importantly, how you’re functioning day to day.
Care is tailored to the individual findings. Depending on the patient, it may include chiropractic adjustments and exercises selected to build strength and support movement. For younger patients whose curves require additional management, our practice works with other providers for bracing when appropriate. Patients who’ve previously undergone scoliosis surgery may still be evaluated for chiropractic care, with treatment modified around the surgically treated area.
Why a School Screening Is a Starting Point
A school screening may identify signs that warrant a closer look, but it doesn’t provide the same information as an X-ray. Dr. Preston has seen children referred after a screening who didn’t have scoliosis on X-ray, as well as patients who weren’t aware they had a significant curve. A more complete evaluation can help determine what’s actually happening.
Staying Active With a Curve
A scoliosis diagnosis doesn’t automatically mean surgery. The appropriate approach depends on the individual, including age, curve severity, symptoms, function and other health considerations. The goal of chiropractic care is to support movement and function while keeping an eye on how you’re doing over time. If your findings indicate that you need bracing, surgical consultation or another type of care, we’ll discuss referral options with you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can my teen keep playing sports with scoliosis?
What if my child needs more than chiropractic care?
Clearer Answers for Your Family
It’s easier to make decisions when you understand what the examination and X-rays show. Our team will take the time to look at the curve, your or your child’s function and the bigger clinical picture. Book an appointment with Dr. Gary or Dr. Preston at Davis Chiropractic Center today.
