Scoliosis in Adelaide

Scoliosis is a lateral curvature of the spine that affects approximately three percent of the Australian population. It most commonly develops during adolescence but can also present in adults due to degenerative changes. While mild scoliosis may cause no symptoms, moderate to severe curves can lead to back pain, postural asymmetry, reduced mobility, and in rare cases, breathing difficulties.

Chiropractic care plays an important role in the conservative management of scoliosis. Your chiropractor will perform a thorough spinal examination including postural analysis, Adams Forward Bend Test, and may refer for full-spine X-rays to measure the Cobb angle and assess curve severity. Treatment for scoliosis focuses on reducing pain, improving spinal mobility, strengthening supporting muscles, and slowing curve progression. Techniques may include specific spinal adjustments, mobilisation, scoliosis-specific exercises based on the Schroth method or similar protocols, and postural training. For adolescents with progressive curves, your chiropractor will coordinate with orthopaedic specialists regarding bracing recommendations. Research in the journal Scoliosis and Spinal Disorders has shown that exercise-based approaches can reduce pain and improve function in patients with scoliosis.

It is important to have realistic expectations — chiropractic care does not straighten scoliotic curves but can significantly improve comfort, function, and quality of life. Regular monitoring is essential for growing adolescents to track curve progression. Your chiropractor can serve as a key member of a multidisciplinary team managing scoliosis alongside orthopaedic surgeons, exercise physiologists, and physiotherapists.