What is scoliosis?
How do you know that the curve in your spine is abnormal? Scoliosis is an abnormal sideways curvature in the spine and the signs and symptoms vary, depending on the severity and onset of the condition. In most cases, scoliosis is very mild and many individuals live their lives without knowing they have it. However, in very severe cases, such as spinal fusion where two or more vertebrae are fused, surgery is required. Scoliosis in younger individuals (<10) tends to lead to more serious cases, so close attention is required.
What are the signs and symptoms?
Symptoms and signs of scoliosis vary greatly, depending on severity. An individual with scoliosis may have, but not limited to:
- Pain in the neck/shoulder, back, lower back, and/or bottock area
- Limited mobility on one side
- Unevenness of muscle on one side of the spine
- Uneven height of shoulders/hips
- Heart and lung problems in severe cases
How do you check for scoliosis?
A proper diagnosis should only be made by a health physician but a simple way to check for scoliosis is to examine the level of both shoulders and hips. If one side is higher than the other, it’s a good indication of scoliosis. Checking unevenness of the shoulder blades can be a sign as well. An examiner can also check for unevenness of the back when the spine is bent forward. Your doctor may recommend imaging tests, such as X-ray, CT scan, MRI scan to confirm scoliosis.
What are the causes of scoliosis?
There are many different types of scoliosis and each type is determined by the cause of the condition The first type is called idiopathic and it consists about 70% of all cases; There is no clear cause of idiopathic scoliosis. Degenerative scoliosis is the second most common of about 20% of cases, where the cause is because of the degeneration of the spine and disc. Although it may be a smaller fraction, diseases that cause neurological dysfunction can also lead to scoliosis.
In Traditional Chinese Medicine, scoliosis is seen as a sign of Governing Vessel (Du) channel dysfunction. The Governing Vessel channel is the acupuncture meridian that runs in the back, from the middle of the hip bone to the head. Dysfunction of this channel can be caused by congenital weakness, external factors (bad posture/trauma), bone and/or muscle weakness due to imbalance in the internal system.
How does our clinic use Traditional Chinese Medicine to treat scoliosis?
Traditional Chinese Medicine treatment for scoliosis focuses on fixing the dysfunction in the Governing Vessel channel. Governing Vessel channel specific acupuncture points and spine points on Zhu’s scalp acupuncture are used to “open” the spine, increase the circulation and promote healing to the area.
In many cases, there are underlying deficiencies which contribute to scoliosis. Congenital deficiency, and imbalance of the internal system from deficiency of organs are quite common. To improve such conditions, herbal medicine and dietary change must be implemented to the treatment.
Scoliosis-specific exercises are an essential part of the treatment. These exercises help the body to regain balance on both sides and add strength to support the spine. They also help to correct any postures or movements that may have become habitual and provide education to prevent further degeneration.
While scoliosis itself may not be a serious condition, it can lead to more complications down the road if left untreated. If yourself or anyone you know is struggling from scoliosis, please contact us at 416-901-2873 or info@mycompletebalance.com to book your initial assessment appointment.
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Why wait for spring allergies to come to you when you can prevent it! San Jiu allergy patches are made from a blend of herbs that are easy and pain-free, making them ideal for both children and adults. To learn more about how it all works, you can read up on our blog article here. We’re happy to share that the patch days have been announced for the winter season:
Mon, Dec 21, 2020
Wed, Dec 30, 2020
Fri, Jan 8, 2021
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10% off Genuine Health Vegan Protein Powder
• Made with a custom blend of 7 high protein organic vegan ingredients (spirulina, mung bean, yellow pea kernel, pumpkin, flaxseed, hemp and brown rice)
• Fermented using non-dairy probiotics and enzymes for more effective absorption without bloating
• Add to water, smoothie or baking recipe!
• Available in vanilla and chocolate
Yes, we are open! Book your appointment by emailing us at info@mycompletebalance.com or calling us at 416-901-2873
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