Scoliosis Treatment in Sturgis
Scoliosis is an abnormal sideways curvature of the spine that creates an “S” or “C” shape when viewed from behind. It most commonly develops during childhood or adolescent growth spurts, and girls are diagnosed more often than boys. While the exact cause is often unknown, scoliosis does tend to run in families and can also be linked to certain neurological, muscular, or connective tissue conditions.
Symptoms of Scoliosis
Many people with mild scoliosis experience few or no symptoms, but as the curvature progresses or as the spine ages, symptoms can become more noticeable. Scoliosis is classified as mild when the curve is under 25 degrees, moderate between 25 and 50 degrees, and severe when it exceeds 50 degrees. As the spine continues to degenerate with age, scoliosis symptoms often worsen. Spinal stenosis — a narrowing of the spinal canal — can develop alongside scoliosis, increasing pain and pressure over time. The greater the curvature, the more likely it is that symptoms will develop, including:
- Low back pain and stiffness with limited range of motion
- Uneven shoulder or hip height, or a shoulder blade that protrudes
- Fatigue from uneven weight distribution in the lower back and legs
- Pain or numbness from pinched nerves
- A tendency to lean forward, as this posture opens space in the spinal column to relieve nerve pressure
- In severe cases, rib cage deformity that can affect lung function and the ability to breathe deeply
Chiropractic Care for Scoliosis
While chiropractic care cannot straighten a curved spine, it plays a meaningful role in managing scoliosis and reducing its impact on daily life. At Key City Chiropractic & Acupuncture, Dr. Goebel uses spinal adjustments and targeted muscle work to help patients stand more comfortably, reduce strain on the back and legs, and improve overall spinal function. Regular chiropractic care helps keep joints moving, reduces inflammation caused by spinal misalignments, and supports the body’s ability to manage the stress of an abnormal curvature.
Research supports the value of chiropractic care for scoliosis. A study of 28 patients published through the National Institutes of Health found that those who received chiropractic care reported meaningful improvements in pain and disability. The majority also showed a reduction in their curvature measurement, along with improved lung function — results that held up two years after treatment.
Additional Treatment Considerations
For younger patients whose curve is progressing or causing discomfort, Dr. Goebel may recommend a specialized brace to help maintain spinal alignment during growth. In severe cases where curves exceed 45-50 degrees, a surgical consultation may be warranted, and Dr. Goebel can help guide that referral process. Being proactive about scoliosis management — even before pain develops — leads to the best long-term outcomes, making early evaluation an important step for anyone with a known or suspected curvature.
Schedule Your Appointment
If you or your child has been diagnosed with scoliosis, or if you’re experiencing back pain, uneven posture, or unexplained fatigue, contact Key City Chiropractic & Acupuncture in Sturgis today to schedule an evaluation with Dr. Goebel.
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