As a parent, learning that your child has scoliosis will likely take you by surprise.
While kids of any age and gender can have scoliosis, it more commonly presents itself and worsens when going through puberty. The big mystery we have yet to solve, however, is why females are more likely to have scoliosis than men.
What is Scoliosis?
Scoliosis is a common disorder that causes the spine to curve in either a ‘C’ or ‘S’ shape rather than be a straight line. While there is no known cause of idiopathic scoliosis, it’s proven that the disorder is not related to certain behaviors or physical activities (ex. wearing a heavy backpack, having bad posture, or playing sports). There is, however, a genetic link – with approximately 30% of patients having a family history of the condition.
Scoliosis in Girls
While we may not know what causes scoliosis to develop, we do know that it occurs much more frequently in females. In fact, girls over the age of ten are ten times more likely to have idiopathic scoliosis than boys of the same age. Girls are also much more likely to develop severe symptoms and spine curves.
Given that scoliosis often occurs when going through puberty – while our bodies are undergoing other significant changes – it’s important to be tested for it. A couple of things to look out for that may be indicators of scoliosis include:
– uneven shoulder blades
– a rotating spine
– uneven hips
– back pain
If your little ones are diagnosed with scoliosis they will still be able to live healthy and active lives. With close observation of the condition you can prevent it from getting worse.
Treatment
Put simply, the method of treatment is dependent upon the severity of the curve. As mentioned, it can be as minor as observation or as major as surgery. Scoliosis treatment is generally focused on decreasing the curve’s progression, whereas Massage Therapy can be successful in reducing discomfort and other symptoms.
Muscles on one side of the curve spine tend to be overstretched with muscles on the other side being contracted – Massage helps to relieve the former and stretch the latter. This results in increased flexibility, and typically lowers the instances of muscle spasms.
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with Scoliosis, we can help with a treatment plan. Our experienced RMTs can find the right plan of action to assist you.
Bayview Sheppard RMT is a massage therapy clinic located in North York, Toronto, open 7 days a week. We offer treatments specifically based around relaxing and stress relief, pregnancy and prenatal massage, sports massage, deep tissue massage, Thai massage, couples massage, and much more. Email or call us today to book.