FREE Screenings for Scoliosis Awareness Month!
FREE Screenings for Scoliosis Awareness Month
Scoliosis affects about 3% of the population and is the most common spinal deformity according to Spine Health. Scoliosis is when there is an irregular curve and rotation in the spine. Most often this deformity has no known cause, in which case it is called idiopathic scoliosis. The curve can occur anywhere in the spine and there can be more than one curve.
Scoliosis can cause a number of potential problems if left untreated. A small curve can grow into a bigger curve and even create a new curve in a lower segment of the spine. Curves will continue to grow and worsen as skeletal growth occurs. It can cause muscle spasms in the back which can lead to back pain. It can also cause abnormal walking patterns and malalignment of the hips. This can lead to pain in the knees, ankles, and hips and makes the areas more susceptible for injury.
Early diagnosis is crucial and helps to slow or stop the progression of the curve. Children’s bones are not fully hardened yet, so non-surgical options such as bracing and therapy are effective treatments for slowing or stopping the progression of the curve. Screenings are the best way to catch scoliosis early even though it can occur at any age. Some schools offer yearly screenings for scoliosis. You can also ask the pediatrician to do a screening during your child’s annual exam.
We will be offering a FREE scoliosis screen on June 29th from 10:30 – 11:00 am at both our Bluffton and Port Royal Clinics. This screen is not only for patients, but also for parents, siblings, relatives, and anyone else who would like to be screened for scoliosis. Please call ahead to reserve your spot!
IF you are unable to make it, Lowcountry Therapy Center provides FREE screenings for children all year round! Please call our office at (843) 815-6999 for further information!
Here is a link for more information on signs/symptoms, diagnosis, and treatments
https://www.spine-health.com/blog/june-scoliosis-awareness-month
-Matthew D’Antonio, DPT, PT
-Pediatric Physical Therapist
