Common Symptoms of Scoliosis
Scoliosis symptoms can vary widely but may include:
- Uneven shoulders, hips, or rib cage
- Visible spinal curve or body tilt
- Back pain or stiffness, especially after activity
- Muscle imbalance and tension on one side of the body
- Limited range of motion or reduced flexibility
- Fatigue from poor posture or spinal imbalance
- In severe cases, difficulty breathing due to reduced lung space
Root Causes and Contributing Factors
The exact cause of scoliosis often depends on the type:
- Idiopathic scoliosis — most common, typically diagnosed in adolescence without a clear cause, higher likelihood with girls vs. boys
- Degenerative scoliosis — related to arthritis, disc degeneration, or aging
- Neuromuscular scoliosis — linked to conditions such as cerebral palsy or muscular dystrophy
- Congenital scoliosis — caused by spinal abnormalities present at birth
Even when the cause is not fully understood, contributing factors like poor posture, muscle imbalances, and lifestyle can influence how scoliosis progresses and how symptoms show up.
How Scoliosis Is Diagnosed
Our providers begin with a detailed exam of your posture, alignment, and movement patterns. If scoliosis is suspected or already diagnosed, we may recommend:
- Spinal X-rays to measure curve severity (Cobb angle)
- Movement assessments to understand how scoliosis impacts your daily movements and function
- Functional medicine testing for inflammation, nutrient deficiencies, or hormonal imbalances that may affect bone and muscle health
This comprehensive approach helps us design care that addresses both spinal alignment and the whole body.
Our Treatment Approach
While scoliosis cannot always be “cured,” it can be managed effectively. At Aligned Modern Health, we focus on reducing pain, improving mobility, and preventing progression:
- Chiropractic Care: Gentle, targeted adjustments to improve spinal mobility, reduce pressure, and restore function.
- Functional Rehabilitation: Exercises to strengthen weak muscles, improve posture, and support spinal stability.
- Acupuncture: Co-treatment helps ease muscle tension, reduce pain, and improve nervous system regulation.
- Functional Medicine & Nutrition: Supports bone health, reduces inflammation, and promotes whole-body resilience.
- Lifestyle Coaching: Ergonomic, sleep, and movement guidance to ease daily strain on the spine.
Every plan is individualized, empowering patients to live more comfortably with scoliosis.
Conditions Commonly Linked to Scoliosis
Scoliosis is often associated with or mistaken for:
- Chronic back pain
- Herniated discs
- Poor posture
- Neck pain and tension headaches
- Arthritis and spinal degeneration
(Each should link internally to related AMH condition pages.)
What to Expect From Care
Your scoliosis care journey includes:
- Initial Visit – A provider listens to your history, symptoms, and goals.
- Diagnostic Imaging & Testing – Spinal X-rays and movement assessments, if needed.
- Personalized Care Plan – Tailored chiropractic, rehab, acupuncture, and functional medicine.
- Ongoing Support – Regular monitoring to track curve progression and adapt care as needed.
Appointments are available in-person at AMH clinics, with virtual support for nutrition and functional medicine. All services are insurance-eligible and FSA/HSA friendly.
Is Scoliosis Affecting You?
Scoliosis doesn’t have to define your mobility or limit your quality of life. With root-cause, whole-body care, you can find relief, improve alignment, and feel stronger every day.
Book a visit today and take the first step toward managing scoliosis with confidence and comfort.
