Having scoliosis can range from a minor problem that you barely notice all the way to dealing with significant challenges in your day-to-day life.

When you have scoliosis, your spine is curved into an “S” or “C” shape. This shaping can be small or significant, and each case progresses in its own unique way.

Unfortunately, scoliosis won’t really ever go away on its own. It is a progressive disease, so care is focused on symptom management and interventions in more serious cases. Our team at AFC Urgent Care Statesville explains more about what a scoliosis diagnosis means below.

How Is Scoliosis Diagnosed?

In an initial medical visit, you will most likely go through a thorough family history and you will get an X-ray. An X-ray is a great way for your medical provider to get detailed images of your spine and the curve in question. Sometimes an MRI or CT scan is ordered as well if a more in-depth look is needed.

Catching scoliosis early is important in order to help support your spine, and it allows your medical provider to follow your case more closely. This way, you will have more appointments and check-ins to keep an eye on the curve.

Additional Symptoms of Scoliosis

• Difference in shoulder height
• Asymmetry in ribs
• Difference in hip or shoulder blade height
• Prominence on one side of the back when bending over

What Treatment Options Are Available for Scoliosis?

Most cases of scoliosis actually aren’t medically treated immediately. Many providers like to keep an eye on your curvature and will want to see you more often. Sometimes the curve will stay stagnant and not get any worse, but other times it will get worse as you age.

A more severe curvature beyond 20 degrees or more may result in a back brace to provide constant pressure on the spine, and some cases beyond 50 degrees may require surgery.

Reducing Scoliosis Discomfort

• Consistent exercise to strengthen your back muscles
• Anti-inflammatories to manage pain
• Yoga and stretching to help alleviate pressure points on your back

Wondering whether your child may have scoliosis? Come see us for an X-ray at AFC Urgent Care Statesville.