The spine is the foundation of the human body. It carries the entire upper body, protects important nerves and allows the torso to move in all directions. An unnatural curvature of the spine can therefore bring unpleasant symptoms. Especially when this occurs during childhood, it can cause severe deformities and cause a lot of discomfort. Unfortunately, this is not always recognized and treated (in a timely manner).
Do you suspect your child is developing a crooked back or has he or she already been diagnosed? On this page you can read about what chiropractic can do for you!
How does a curved back occur?
Some people are born with a spinal deformity. While others develop it later, usually still in childhood. A curvature of the spine can occur in three forms: scoliosis, hyperkyphosis and hyperlordosis.
Scoliosis
Scoliosis is a lateral fusion of the spine. In most cases, the cause is unknown. In other cases, scoliosis is a symptom of an underlying condition. One can think of neuromuscular disorders, for example. These are disorders of the nerves, muscles or connections between them.
Osteoarthritis, osteoporosis and rheumatoid arthritis are examples of conditions that can result in scoliosis. In osteoarthritis, the cartilage in a joint wears down. In osteoporosis, more bone is broken down that is created, and in rheumatoid arthritis, there is chronic joint inflammation.
All three can cause the vertebrae to sag in a curvature causing symptoms.
Hyperkyphosis
Hyperkyphosis is an excessive bulging of the back at the level of the chest. It is also popularly referred to as a hump. Like scoliosis, hyperkyphosis can be caused by nerve and muscle disorders, osteoporosis, rheumatism or a tumor. In addition, spondylosis may be the culprit.
Finally, poor posture can cause hyperkyphosis. When you do a lot of slumping or lifting heavy things, the muscles and ligaments in your back can stretch, not allowing them to adequately support the spine. This, in turn, can cause the back to sag in an excessive bulge.
Hyperlordosis
Whereas hyperkyphosis involves excessive bulging of the back, the back of children with hyperlordosis is actually excessively hollow at the level of the lower back. Again, nerve and muscle disorders, osteoporosis and poor posture can be the cause of hyperlordosis. Another possible cause is dwarfism.
What are the symptoms of a curved back?
A severe curvature of the back will cause symptoms at an early age. The pain is mainly present in the back and possibly in the neck and shoulders. In addition, the deformation of the back can cause organs and nerves to become pinched.
For example, depending on the location of the curvature, the lungs and heart may not get enough room, which in turn can lead to shortness of breath, fatigue and chest pain. Other possible symptoms include headaches, balance problems, muscle pain and stiffness.
Often children with mild curvature of the back have little to no physical symptoms. Especially not when the curvature is emerging or has only been present for a short time.
Nevertheless, it is very important to pay attention to the abnormality even in these cases. In fact, a growth spurt can exacerbate a slight curvature, causing symptoms to suddenly become intense.
Also, an untreated slight curvature can cause problems later on. In fact, when the vertebrae and intervertebral discs are overloaded on one side for a long period of time, it increases the risk of wear and tear in the form of osteoarthritis.
What can chiropractic care do for my child with a curved back?
When treating a curved back, it is important to investigate what caused the curvature. Based on this, our chiropractors prepare a personalized treatment plan. This addresses the cause and factors affecting the complaint. We do this by creating the right conditions for the body to recover.
First, treatment may involve manipulation of the spine. This means the practitioner corrects the spine to its natural shape through gentle pressure techniques or through quick targeted movements.
In addition, exercises may be prescribed to strengthen muscles and improve mobility. In some cases, attention to the nervous system is necessary because an abnormality in innervation (control) is the cause of the curvature.
In addition to direct intervention, the chiropractor can offer advice on a healthy lifestyle. Consider adequate exercise and good posture.
Chiropractic care at TOPCHIRO
The chiropractors at TOPCHIRO are ready to reduce your child’s symptoms. After a comprehensive analysis of the possible causes, we draw up a personal recovery plan.
Still have questions or want to make an appointment? Then contact us with no obligation!