Scoliosis

Scoliosis is a sideways curvature of the spine that most often is diagnosed in adolescents. While scoliosis can occur in people with conditions such as cerebral palsy and muscular dystrophy, the cause of most childhood scoliosis is unknown.

Most cases of scoliosis are mild, but some curves worsen as children grow. Severe scoliosis can be disabling. An especially severe spinal curve can reduce the amount of space within the chest, making it difficult for the lungs to function properly. Signs and symptoms of scoliosis may include:

  • Uneven shoulders

  • One shoulder blade that appears more prominent than the other

  • Uneven waist

  • One hip higher than the other

  • One side of the rib cage jutting forward

  • A prominence on one side of the back when bending forward

Dr. Tenckhoff uses Cox Technic Flexion Distraction and Decompression to widen the canal space, drop the intradiscal pressure and increase the disc height to relieve pain and encourage as much mobility into the scoliotic spine as possible. At home you may want to avoid sitting for long periods of time, wear a support brace if recommended, take nutritional supplements that help rebuild disc cartilage, do exercises - that strengthen your spine, sleep on a supportive mattress, sit in an ergonomically designed chair, and modify your daily activities as needed.