Scoliosis, second opinions and x-rays

While chiropractic treatment is great for short-term pain, its benefits are not limited to just acute conditions. Chiropractic care from Dr. Weigle at Absolute Health Chiropractic is also helpful for long-term problems like scoliosis.

What is scoliosis?

A normal human spine has gentle curves when viewed from the side, but should appear straight when seen from the front or back. Scoliosis is a spinal deformity that causes a C- or S-shaped curve to the left or right.

There are two major types of scoliosis. Congenital scoliosis is present from birth. Idiopathic scoliosis, however, is much more common and usually appears during adolescence. The word idiopathic simply means “from no clear cause.” This type is more prevalent in females, and while there is some evidence to suggest idiopathic scoliosis is hereditary, this is not yet certain.

Scoliosis is further classified by the direction of the abnormal curvature. Levoscoliosis is a leftward curve, while dextroscoliosis is the term for a curve to the right.

Scoliosis symptoms

Unfortunately, the side effects of having scoliosis are sometimes serious, particularly later in life. Patients with scoliosis often have uneven shoulders and hips. This leads to a lopsided gait that puts more wear on one side of the body. This can result in hip, knee, shoulder and foot issues in the future. Furthermore, scoliosis sufferers will often have poor posture which can cause other problems in the back, neck and head.

Scoliosis screening

Since scoliosis can cause degenerative disease down the road, scoliosis screening in kids is crucial so that the condition can be diagnosed and corrected early. Dr. Weigle is trained and experienced in scoliosis screening. It’s a painless process consisting of a simple exam and x-rays, if needed.

All children should undergo scoliosis screenings, regardless of family history. If scoliosis is found, treatment can begin immediately. Adults should also receive an exam for scoliosis if they experience pain with walking long distances, back pain or notice uneven hips or shoulders.

Chiropractic treatment for scoliosis

Braces and surgery are the most often prescribed treatments for scoliosis. However, Dr. Weigle provides other options. Chiropractic treatment, in the form of specialized exercises and adjustments, has been shown to not only relieve pain in scoliosis patients, but also to help correct abnormal curvatures. A study published in 2011 found that in a group of 28 patients, 22 had a reduction in pain and an improvement in their deformity with chiropractic care alone. Scoliosis treatment from Dr. Weigle at Absolute Health Chiropractic is a superb way to treat a difficult condition non-invasively, without the need for surgery.

Consulting and second opinions

Any good medical provider understands that getting a second opinion is a sign of a responsible patient. If your car had a problem that your mechanic couldn’t fix, you’d probably seek advice from a second mechanic. Your body is no different. If you’re having pain and not finding relief, it’s probably time to try something else.

Dr. Weigle is qualified to provide a second opinion on any pain or mobility issue you may be experiencing. After a complete history and consultation, she will perform an exam and any necessary diagnostic tests. She can then formulate a diagnosis and treatment plan.

Even if you’re certain about your diagnosis, a second opinion never hurts. Dr. Weigle can also offer treatment options that you might not have considered. Narcotics, opioids and risky, invasive procedures can often be avoided with all natural chiropractic care. Chiropractic is always non-invasive, uses no surgery and lacks side-effects. Before you decide on a major surgical procedure or start dangerous pain medications, see Dr. Weigle at Absolute Health Chiropractic for an alternative medical consultation.

Do chiropractors need to take x-rays?

The short answer is yes. X-rays, also called radiographs or roentgenograms, are an invaluable, non-invasive diagnostic tool. Chiropractors, like all medical professionals, use x-rays to locate, diagnose and grade abnormalities.

Complementary medical providers like Dr. Weigle are trained in the use of x-rays to precisely locate problem areas. Despite having the same basic anatomy, everyone has internal differences that can only be defined through medical imaging. X-rays are used to distinguish these differences and determine the severity of any problems.

Specifically, Dr. Weigle employs x-rays to look for any spinal subluxations, or small dislocations. An x-ray will also help him ascertain the degree of subluxation. In fact, x-rays don’t show just bone, but also some soft tissue. Therefore, Dr. Weigle can use x-rays to search for other issues as well.

Finally, x-rays are a great tool for communicating with patients. Dr. Weigle will be able to point out any areas of concern and clearly show you any problems. You’ll have a good visual representation of your diagnosis and planned treatment.

Some patients have concerns about x-ray safety. While it’s true that x-rays do use radiation, the amount of radiation is much less than in some other forms of imaging, such as CT scans. Furthermore, Dr. Weigle is thoroughly trained in diagnostic x-rays and will always use the least amount of radiation necessary for your case.

Scoliosis Screenings by Chiropractor in Gainesville