Scoliosis Treatment with Dr. Tony Nalda

When patients undergo spinal conditions such as low back pain, mid-back pain, or neck pain, they are often prescribed MRI scans. From these scans, findings are obtained, with one prevalent result often linked to these symptoms known as disc desiccation. Disc desiccation occurs when the spine shifts out of alignment, leading to degeneration and loss of hydration in the discs. Degenerative Disc Disease Contrary to its name, degenerative disc disease isn't a contagious ailment but a mechanical process affecting all spinal discs. This is often attributed to prolonged misalignment, causing discs to age faster than the rest of the spine. Symptoms include stiffness, limited motion, pain, tingling, numbness, and weakness. Treatment Approach In order to treat this, the primary focus is to correct spinal alignment issues. It is important to realign the spine based on the specific location of disc desiccation. Lifestyle changes, such as addressing prolonged sitting and excess weight, are recommended. Rehabilitation methods like traction, chiropractic adjustments, and prescribed home exercises aim to stabilize misalignments. Preventive Measures Proactivity and prevention are key to maintaining spinal health. Regular exercise, proper posture, and periodic checkups are highlighted as crucial for early detection and correction of posture issues. Maintaining proper spinal alignment can prevent degenerative changes and reduce the risk of disc desiccation. To know more, check out Dr. Tony Nalda’s podcast. Artlist.io 847544  

The spine has some natural curvatures that are very important to its normal function and alignment. These curvatures play a vital role in maintaining spinal strength, flexibility, and distributing mechanical stress during movement. There are two essential curvatures: lordosis, which bends forward in the cervical and lumbar spine, and kyphosis, which bends backward in the thoracic spine. These curvatures should exist within a specific range for normal spine function. Understanding Kyphosis Kyphosis often includes rounding of the shoulders and upper back, which can lead to discomfort, radicular pain, and stiffness in the thoracic spine. This condition is commonly referred to as a "rounded back" or "hunchback." Primary Causes of Kyphosis: Postural Kyphosis: In today's tech-driven world, poor posture, especially with prolonged device use, can contribute to postural kyphosis. This type is treatable, especially when addressed early. Sherman's Kyphosis: This structural kyphosis results from a misshaped vertebra, forming a wedge-like structure. Early intervention is crucial to prevent worsening over time. Treatment Approaches Treatment strategies vary depending on the cause of Kyphosis: Postural Kyphosis: With its relative flexibility, the thoracic spine responds well to therapies, rehabilitation, and postural exercises, helping to improve posture and alleviate symptoms. Structural Kyphosis: When kyphosis becomes resistant to correction through posture alone, more intensive approaches are necessary. These may include specific chiropractic care, physical therapy, extension-focused exercises, muscle strengthening, and corrective bracing. In treating kyphosis, timing plays a critical role. The sooner it's addressed, the better the chances of successful outcomes, both visually and symptomatically. Proactive treatment during childhood or early stages of adult development can help reshape the spine, prevent further misalignment, and is the key to a healthier, pain-free spine. For more on this, check out Dr. Tony Nalda’s podcast. Don't forget to subscribe for more valuable insights and discussions. Artlist.io 847544  

When examining X-rays or MRIs of the cervical spine, terms like cervical hyperlordosis, reversal of cervical lordosis, or cervical kyphosis often come up. To grasp these concepts, it's essential to understand what cervical lordosis is and why it matters. The spine possesses natural curves when viewed from the side, making it stronger against gravitational and compressive forces. These curves distribute mechanical stresses evenly throughout the spine, including the neck (cervical), mid-back (thoracic), and lower back (lumbar). There are two main types of curves that exists in the spine and depending on where they’re located, it can either be abnormal or normal. A normal range for lordosis typically falls between 30 to 40 degrees. An ideal cervical curve is around 40 to 45 degrees, but there's a bit of flexibility within this range. Hyperlordosis and Hypolordosis Hyperlordosis refers to an excessive forward curvature of the cervical spine, which can be problematic. On the other hand, hypolordosis occurs when the curve drops below the normal range. When the cervical spine bends in the opposite direction and becomes kyphotic, it's called a reversal of cervical lordosis. Reversal of Cervical Lordosis The reversal of cervical lordosis refers to a condition where the natural forward curvature of the cervical spine is lost, and the spine starts bending in the opposite direction, forming a backward curve or kyphosis in the neck. This reversal is problematic because it disrupts the spine's normal mechanical load-bearing capabilities, which can lead to various issues, including neck pain, nerve dysfunction, degenerative changes in the spine, and even organ function impairment. Correcting the loss of cervical lordosis is crucial to restore proper alignment and prevent further complications in spinal health. Dr. Tony Nalda has shed light on the significance of cervical lordosis and its role in spinal health. Treatment should focus on identifying the underlying cause and restoring the normal cervical curve. The ultimate goal is to correct the loss of cervical lordosis and improve overall well-being. For more on this, check out Dr. Tony Nalda’s podcast. Don't forget to subscribe for more valuable insights and discussions. Artlist.io 847544

Contrary to common belief, scoliosis affects a larger percentage of older patients than children. It's most prevalent between 10 and 18 years of age and this is something that we call adolescent idiopathic scoliosis. Types of Scoliosis Idiopathic Scoliosis: The most common type with no clear singular causation factor; it is a multifactor problem. Neuromuscular Scoliosis: Associated with conditions like Down syndrome, neurofibromatosis, and cerebral palsy. Congenital Scoliosis: Results from bone malformation during fetal development. Degenerative Scoliosis: Caused by age-related deterioration of the spine; not a natural part of aging. Symptoms of Adult Scoliosis Pain, typically starting around 40 years of age. Pain results from the spine compressing over time, causing localized back pain and radiating pain in the legs and feet. Postural changes such as leaning to one side, uneven shoulders, rib arches, and hips can occur. Scoliosis can affect the lower extremities, leading to hip, knee, and foot problems. Alignment issues in the spine can also disrupt balance and nerve function. Impact of Untreated Scoliosis If left untreated, scoliosis can have wide-ranging effects on the body's biomechanical system. Since everything is connected to the spine, it can lead to mechanical issues and affect nerve function. Nerve dysfunction can result in neurological pain and other health problems. The primary goal of treatment in adult scoliosis should be curve reduction to prevent further deterioration. Preserving function and avoiding invasive treatments like surgery should also be a priority. Stabilizing the condition, improving spinal muscles for support, and reducing pain are essential treatment objectives. Scoliosis treatment in adults can only be effective with early intervention. By reducing the curve and maintaining spinal health can significantly improve the quality of life and reduce the need for invasive treatments. Be sure to subscribe to Dr. Tony Nalda's podcast for more valuable insights and information. Artlist.io 847544  

In today’s episode, we meet Armelle. Her story serves as an inspiring example of how non-surgical scoliosis treatment can bring relief and improved quality of life to individuals dealing with adult scoliosis. Armelle's journey began after a car accident in 2012, during which she sustained an injury that went unnoticed in terms of scoliosis diagnosis. Despite experiencing post-accident pain, her condition was not identified as scoliosis until years later. Searching for solutions, Armelle discovered non-surgical scoliosis treatment and decided to explore this approach. She attended an online summit, where she learned about the possibility of addressing scoliosis without resorting to surgery. Encouraged by the positive feedback she heard from others, Armelle embarked on her treatment journey with Dr. Tony Nalda at the Scoliosis Reduction Center. Armelle's experience with the comprehensive and personalized care provided by Dr. Nalda's team was transformative. She found relief from pain and discomfort, improved mobility, and a renewed ability to engage in everyday activities. Her positive outcome serve as a testament to the potential of non-surgical scoliosis treatment to positively impact the lives of those living with adult scoliosis. To know more about Armelle and her journey, check out Dr. Tony Nalda’s podcast. Musicbed SyncID: MB01CMIB0XRJ5EE

Scoliosis is often diagnosed among children and adolescents. However, contrary to common perception, scoliosis isn't confined to. In fact, there are studies that indicate that up to 50% of patients in the 60s and 70s have some form of scoliosis, with Idiopathic and degenerative scoliosis as the main types affecting adults over 50. 2 Types of Adult scoliosis Idiopathic scoliosis: Most common type and often an extension of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis. Degenerative Scoliosis: Resulting from age-related spine degeneration, typically seen in patients over 40, especially women around menopause. Adult Scoliosis Symptoms Adolescent vs Adult Pain – Scoliosis is often pain-free during adolescence, as growth counteracts the compressive forces of gravity on the spine while gravity-induced compression becomes a key factor in the adult form of scoliosis, leading to pain as the spine curves slowly over time. Pain onset - In adults, scoliosis progression is slow and chronic due to gravity's consistent pressure. This compression puts pressure on muscles, nerves, and surrounding tissues, resulting in discomfort and pain. Age-related pain - Pain associated with scoliosis typically begins in patients over the age of 40. Women going through menopause, around 50-55 years of age, may experience an increase in pain due to hormonal changes. Pain is not always correlated to curve size - The level of pain isn't necessarily determined by the size of the spinal curve. Pain in adult scoliosis is often related to how much the curve progresses in the adult stage, rather than the curve's initial size. Many adult patients seek treatment primarily to manage their pain and discomfort but treating symptoms alone may not fully address the underlying cause of scoliosis and its progression. With any form of scoliosis, early intervention and proper treatment is important to manage the pain, reduce curve progression, and enhance spinal function. Seeking specialized care to scoliosis can help mitigate symptoms and improve overall quality of life. Remember, understanding the unique symptoms of adult scoliosis is crucial to finding effective solutions and ensuring a healthier, pain-free future. For more on this, check out Dr. Tony Nalda’s podcast. Artlist.io 847544

In understanding conditions of the spine, the first thing we have to understand is that there is different spinal sections or different areas of the spine wherein problems can occur. In today’s episode, we dive into a common yet often misunderstood condition – C5-C6 Disc Bulging. If you've ever wondered about the neck's intricate workings and how a disc bulge can impact your well-being, then stay tuned to Dr. Tony Nalda’s podcast. Location Matters Think of the cervical spine as the neck's command center, the thoracic spine as the mid-back stronghold, and the lumbar spine as the low-back support system. C5-C6 on the other hand are those pivotal vertebrae in the cervical spine that play a significant role in bearing the weight of our head. C stands for cervical and five and six account for the vertebra in the cervical spine. C5-C6 bulging refers to a condition where the discs located between the fifth and sixth vertebrae in the cervical spine (neck) have shifted out of their normal position. These discs, which act as spacers and shock absorbers for the spine, are designed to handle compression forces. However, factors such as poor posture, like forward head posture or a straight neck, can cause the spine to shift from its natural alignment. This misalignment can result in increased pressure on the C5-C6 discs, causing them to bulge or protrude from their usual position. When these discs bulge, they can exert pressure on the spinal cord and nerves that run through the area. This pressure can lead to a range of symptoms, including pain, stiffness, tingling, numbness, and even muscle weakness in various parts of the body, including the neck, arms, and hands. The bulging can particularly affect the nerves exiting the spinal cord, leading to discomfort and functional issues. In managing this condition, it is important to address it through proper alignment of the spine. By realigning the spine and restoring its natural curvature, the pressure on the C5-C6 discs can be relieved, allowing them to return to their normal position. For more on how to alleviate the associated symptoms and improve overall spinal health, check out Dr. Tony Nalda’s podcast. Artlist.io 847544

One of the most common questions that get asked when consulting with a patient regarding their scoliosis treatment is scoliosis bracing. Scoliosis bracing actually has a long history in the treatment of scoliosis but the debate still continuous between the time-tested traditional approaches against the groundbreaking new-age methods. Traditional Bracing: A Closer Look Traditional bracing is primarily focused on a specific group of patients - typically adolescents with moderate scoliosis curves ranging from 20 to 40 degrees. These patients are still growing and are at a high risk of curve progression. The primary goal of traditional bracing is to halt or slow down the progression of scoliosis curves in these specific cases. The brace is designed to provide external support and compression to the spine, aiming to prevent further curvature during the rapid growth phase. Upon careful assessment and numerous studies and tests, it is observed that traditional braces didn't yield the desired outcomes. Strengthening the spine should be the priority, rather than relying solely on external compression. But really, the effectiveness of a brace is heavily dependent on its design. Regardless of the type of brace used, a well-designed brace can deliver positive results, while a poorly designed one may lead to unsatisfactory outcomes. Corrective Bracing: New Bracing Possibilities Currently, there are innovative approaches in scoliosis bracing that depart from traditional methods. These new bracing techniques leverage modern advancements to address scoliosis with enhanced precision and effectiveness. Among these innovations, 3D-printed braces stand out, offering a personalized and tailored fit for each patient's unique spinal curvature. These braces are designed to not only halt progression but also actively correct the spinal deformity. Additionally, adjustable braces provide flexibility in treatment, adapting to the changing needs of the spine as it responds to therapeutic interventions. These new-age braces together with comprehensive treatment regimens, contributes to improved posture, reduced pain, and enhanced overall spinal function. These advancements signify a paradigm shift in scoliosis bracing, empowering patients with a broader range of options to proactively manage their spinal health. Confused as to go with the tried-and-true or venture into unchartered bracing territory, let Dr. Tony Nalda be your guide so you can make informed treatment decisions and to have hope in this confusing times. Subscribe to the podcast and listen to the full episode to explore the dynamic world of scoliosis braces and how they can redefine your scoliosis journey. Musicbed SyncID: MB016D6WPQ3WHGL

When patients have their spine examined, the term lumbar lordosis often gets thrown around during discussions about spinal health. In today’s episode, we discuss the world of spinal curvatures, demystifying their significance, and uncovering secrets behind lumbar lordosis. Lordosis vs Kyphosis These are different types of spinal curvatures, like the graceful bends of a bridge that give it strength and flexibility. In essence, these curvatures exist to help our spine better handle the everyday stresses of life. Imagine kyphosis as a gentle backward bend, while lumbar lordosis is its opposite, a subtle forward curve. Each curvature has its designated area in the spine – kyphosis in the mid-back (thoracic spine), and lumbar lordosis in the lower back (lumbar spine). It's like a choreographed dance of curves that contribute to our spinal health. But lumbar lordosis isn't just a one-size-fits-all deal. Just like people, spines come in various shapes and sizes. Ideally, lumbar lordosis should be around 40 degrees, but a bit of flexibility exists. Think of it like a normal range for blood pressure – there's a sweet spot, but some wiggle room is okay. What’s interesting is that too much or too little of lumbar lordosis can lead to problems. Imagine if your blood pressure were sky-high or too low – not good, right? Similarly, if lumbar lordosis goes off-balance, it can result in various spinal issues, often causing discomfort and pain. And it's not just limited to the lower back; it can ripple through your entire spinal alignment. Causes of the loss of lumbar lordosis or hypo lordosis in the lumbar spine Spinal Fusion and Scoliosis Surgery: Procedures like spinal fusion, especially in cases of scoliosis surgery with devices like Harrington rods, can lead to a flattening of the spine's natural curvature. This flattening can result in a decrease or loss of lumbar lordosis. Trauma and Injury: Significant trauma or injury to the spine can disrupt its normal alignment, potentially causing a decrease in lumbar lordosis. Such incidents can shift the spine out of its proper position, impacting its curvature. Global Loss of Alignment: When the overall alignment of the spine is compromised, it can lead to a reduction in lumbar lordosis. This can occur due to various factors, including poor posture, muscle imbalances, and degenerative changes in the spine over time. Degenerative Disc Disease: The degeneration of spinal discs, which act as cushions between vertebrae, can contribute to a decrease in lumbar lordosis. As the discs lose their height and hydration, the spine's natural curvature may be affected. Ankylosing Spondylitis: An autoimmune disorder known as ankylosing spondylitis can lead to fusion of ligaments and discs in the spine. This fusion can alter the spine's curvature and result in a reduction of lumbar lordosis. It's important to note that any loss or abnormality in lumbar lordosis can have implications for spinal health and overall well-being. Maintaining proper spinal alignment through exercises, ergonomic practices, and proactive care is essential to prevent these issues and promote a healthier spine. For more spine health tips, check out Dr. Tony Nalda’s podcast. Artlist.io 847544

Today, we talk about the nature of scoliosis pain to gain a better understanding of what individuals living with this condition may feel. Scoliosis pain is a multi-faceted experience that differs from person to person. Understanding the nuances of scoliosis pain can help individuals better manage and communicate their symptoms to be able to come up with effective treatment strategies. Scoliosis pain can occur in both adolescents and adults, with a higher incidence in lumbar curves. Progression of scoliosis over time, influenced by gravity and compression of spinal tissues, often leads to pain onset. It’s a type of pain that typically manifests in the mid to late 30s or 40s and gradually worsens, but individual experiences may vary. Differentiating between Adolescent and Adult Scoliosis Pain Scoliosis pain is less common in adolescents due to the absence of compressive forces caused by growth. You can have a child with a 100-degree curve yet have no pain at all. That’s because their spine is growing and they’re elongating so there’s no compression. But just because it's not causing pain doesn't necessarily mean it's not an important problem to deal with. Adults with scoliosis on the other hand are more likely to experience pain as progression occurs gradually over time, leading to compression and nerve-related discomfort. How to Treat Scoliosis Pain? Evaluate the condition by assessing the progression of scoliosis by comparing past and present X-rays to determine the extent of the curve’s development. Develop a customized treatment plan that focuses on reducing scoliosis progression and addressing the underlying cause of pain. Seek specialized chiropractic care that targets scoliosis, including specific adjustments and therapies designed to alleviate pain and reduce the curve. Engage in rehabilitative exercises tailored to scoliosis management, which can help improve spinal alignment, muscle imbalances, and overall function. Utilize corrective scoliosis bracing (if necessary) to support the spine and promote proper alignment, particularly during periods of growth. Time and Commitment Seek the expertise of professionals specializing in scoliosis management, who can provide tailored guidance and support throughout the treatment journey. With any type of pain, understanding the underlying cause of the pain is a crucial step towards effectively managing the pain, reduce progression, and enhance the over well-being. For more on this, check out Dr. Tony Nalda’s podcast. Musicbed SyncID: MB01W9FGJYN2I8V

In this inspiring podcast episode, Alisha shares her journey as a person with scoliosis. We learn about her struggles, her pain, and how she triumphed with the help of Dr. Tony Nalda. Alisha’s Story Alisha was diagnosed with scoliosis when she was just 16, with a moderate 35-degree curve. A spine specialist recommended surgery. The doctors said that surgery would correct about 50% of the curve, but Alisha and her family decided against doing the surgery. Regular visits to the chiropractor helped with inflammation but provided only temporary relief. For years, she’s had a lot of physical limitations. Adding to the pain is the fact that she isn’t able to spend more time with her kids and be the mom she aspires to be. Dr. Tony Nalda's approach to treating Alisha's scoliosis involved a comprehensive and proactive strategy. Through therapy and targeted treatments, Dr. Nalda aimed to shift and straighten Alisha's spine, ultimately reducing her curve and alleviating her pain. By utilizing specialized machines that targeted specific muscles and preparing the body for adjustments, Dr. Nalda ensured that Alisha's body was relaxed and ready for movement. Alisha's progress was astounding, as her initial 43-degree curve decreased to 31 degrees within just three months. Alisha's journey highlights the potential for improvement in scoliosis conditions without having to through surgery. Her remarkable progress and positive attitude inspire hope and demonstrate the significance of proactive care and the long-lasting effects it can have. For more on Alisha, check out Dr. Tony Nalda’s podcast. Artlist.io 847544

People with Scoliosis often look for ways to either fix, cure, or totally correct their conditions. Unfortunately, scoliosis cannot be completely corrected, fixed, or cured with any known treatment option. The goal is to manage scoliosis proactively, preventing severe progression and the need for invasive surgery. Traditional Treatment Methods The traditional approach tends to be reactive rather than proactive, waiting for curve progression before taking action. Small curves below 25 degrees are often just monitored, even if they cause symptoms or pain. Bracing may be recommended for moderate curves between 25 and 40 degrees while the patient is still growing while surgery is typically considered when the curve exceeds 40 degrees to prevent further progression. But spinal fusion surgery comes with risks such as infection, poor healing, limited flexibility, and the possibility of future surgeries. Conservative Treatment Methods A conservative treatment approach or a proactive conservative approach aims to manage scoliosis early and effectively. It involves multimodal approaches, including therapy exercises, rehabilitation, chiropractic care, and corrective measures. The focus is not just on relieving pain but also on structurally reducing the curve and preventing progression. Conservative methods can help manage scoliosis and reduce the likelihood of future complications associated with severe surgery. When it comes to fixing scoliosis without surgery, it is crucial to consider a proactive and conservative approach. By managing scoliosis early and effectively, the risks and complications associated with severe surgery can be minimized. Through therapies, exercises, and corrective measures, scoliosis can be managed, reduced, and its potential impact on daily life can be mitigated. To know what treatment option will work best for you, check out Dr. Tony Nalda’s podcast. Musicbed SyncID: MB011PFAYBYUCA6

In today’s episode, Dr. Tony Nalda sheds light on common misconceptions about Degenerative Disc Disease. Contrary to popular belief, degenerative disc disease is not a contagious or systemic illness. Instead, it refers to the degeneration of the discs located between the vertebrae in your spine. What is Degenerative Disc Disease The discs in your spine serve as cushions and allow for flexibility, enabling you to move and bend. They also act as shock absorbers, distributing mechanical stresses throughout your body. When the spine loses its normal alignment due to factors like injury, scoliosis, or poor posture, certain areas of the spine may degenerate faster. This localized degeneration is what we refer to as degenerative disc disease. Symptoms of Degenerative Disc Disease Decreased flexibility: One of the primary signs of degenerative disc disease is a decrease in flexibility in the affected area, which can limit your range of motion. Back pain: As the degeneration progresses, it can lead to localized back pain in the affected area of the spine. Radiating pains: Degenerative disc disease can cause radiating pains, such as sciatica or thoracic outlet syndrome, which can affect the neck, head, arms, or legs due to nerve compression. To potentially reverse the effects of degenerative disc disease, it is crucial to address the underlying cause. The first step is to restore normal alignment in the spine. By realigning the spine, which may involve addressing misalignment or scoliosis, the issues contributing to disc degeneration can be mitigated. This realignment creates a more favorable environment for healing. Although spinal discs lose their ability to heal as one reaches adulthood, promoting the best conditions for healing is essential. By focusing on the cause of degeneration, such as misalignment, it is possible to improve the chances of the discs healing themselves to some extent. Additionally, improving the flexibility of the affected discs plays a vital role. While complete restoration of disc height may not be possible, enhancing flexibility can alleviate symptoms and support healing. By taking a proactive approach and addressing the root cause of degenerative disc disease, it is possible to prevent further degeneration and potentially reverse some of its effects. To gain a better understanding of degenerative disc disease, its causes, and the importance of addressing the underlying alignment issues, tune in to Dr. Tony Nalda’s podcast. Artlist.io 847544

Patients with scoliosis are often concerned about what things they should and should not do. Can they still do the activities they normally do, can they do sports, or simply put, how will it impact their day-to-day activities? When a patient has scoliosis the first thing, we have to understand is that they have an unnatural sideways of their spine and it has a curve that has a rotation or a twist associated with it with varying degrees of severity classified as mild, moderate, severe, or very severe scoliosis. Scoliosis tends to worsen over time, with growth and aging being contributing factors to progression. Scoliosis tends to worsen over time, with growth and aging being contributing factors to progression. Importance of Movement and Exercise Movement and exercise are vital for spinal health and overall well-being, even for individuals with scoliosis. Recommendations for exercise restrictions are case-specific, focusing on unique circumstances and the different causes that are associated with it. What to Avoid When You Have Scoliosis Activities that create a tremendous amount of strain on the spine, such as heavy lifting or high-impact sports like football and hockey. Exercises or activities that involve hyperextension of the spine, including gymnastics, dance, ballet, and diving. One-sided or asymmetrical activities, particularly if they are asymmetrical to the side of the scoliotic curvature, like tennis or golf. Movements that put the spine in an unnatural position, taking it outside of its normal range of motion and putting it at risk of strain and injury. It's important to note that the effect of specific sports or activities on scoliosis progression is not entirely clear, and the impact can vary depending on the individual's unique case. Therefore, it is crucial for scoliosis patients to work closely with their healthcare providers to determine which activities are best suited for their condition. A balanced approach is essential, combining effective treatment and engaging in activities that patients enjoy to maintain a fulfilling life while managing scoliosis effectively. For more on this, check out Dr. Tony Nalda’s podcast. Artlist.io 847544

In this podcast episode, we focus on the severity of scoliosis and its impact on individuals. Scoliosis is characterized by a curvature in the spine associated with rotation, with a minimum threshold of 10 degrees for it to be considered scoliosis. As the curvature of scoliosis increases, it is categorized into different severities. Mild scoliosis ranges from 10 to 25 degrees, and in such cases, observation is often the recommended approach. However, among adolescents, curves can progress rapidly, and delays in monitoring and treatment can be risky. When the curvature surpasses 25 degrees but remains below 40 degrees, it is termed moderate scoliosis. The progression within this 15-degree range can be alarmingly fast, as demonstrated by a recent patient who experienced a 25-degree progression within six weeks without treatment. Once the curvature increases beyond 40 degrees, it is now classified as severe scoliosis. In some cases, patients are instructed to return for evaluation after a period of six months, but if the curve rapidly progresses during this time, inadequate instructions for monitoring and managing the condition may pose challenges. And when the curve is over 80 degrees, the condition can now be called extreme or very severe scoliosis. Improper management, delayed intervention, or inadequate treatment options can contribute to the development of scoliosis of this magnitude. Effects of Extreme Scoliosis Extreme or very severe scoliosis can manifest differently in individuals. While not all patients may experience organ function impairment at this stage, concerns may arise as the curvature starts to affect the organs. Additionally, extreme scoliosis can lead to severe postural issues, significant cosmetic concerns, chronic pain, limited activity, mobility issues, and emotional struggles such as self-esteem issues and depression. What to do if you have extreme scoliosis? When it comes to addressing extreme or very severe scoliosis, surgery is often refused by patients due to concerns about risks, long-term effects of spinal surgery, personal preferences, or religious reasons. In some cases, surgeons themselves may decline to operate on these patients due to the high surgical risks involved. In managing extreme scoliosis, the primary goal is to prevent further progression of the curve. While massive reductions are not typically achievable, interventions can focus on improving posture, cosmetics, and overall well-being. At the Scoliosis Reduction Center, there is an approach called the functional chiropractic-centered approach, addressing the root causes of scoliosis rather than merely treating its symptoms. At the heart of this is chiropractic care. It is specifically designed the cause of the problem. This approach may involve chiropractic adjustments, in-office therapy and rehabilitation, customized home exercises, and the use of braces. It is important to recognize that treatment for extreme scoliosis requires a long-term commitment. Taking proactive steps to work with scoliosis is crucial, as the condition is likely to progress more rapidly at this advanced stage. However, there are options available to help manage the condition and minimize the associated consequences. To know more about how to deal with extreme scoliosis, check out Dr. Tony Nalda’s podcast. Musicbed SyncID: MB01CI0QN6SZ6PO