3 Surprising Facts About Scoliosis

Scoliosis is the sideways curvature of the spine that generally takes place right before puberty. It can be caused by several conditions but the majority of those who have it experience a slight deformity during the growth spur. While some experience scoliosis more severely than others, there are several facts surrounding the condition that not many are aware of.  As chiropractors, we believe it’s imperative to bring you as much awareness as possible about the condition, given the impact it can have on your spine and your life as a whole. 

Here are three little known facts about scoliosis: 

1. You More Likely to Have Scoliosis if Someone in Your Family Has It.

If someone in your family has scoliosis, you are 30% more likely to get it yourself. Although as a parent you might not have it and your child does, the family link can extend beyond parents. Parents with a mild condition can also pass it along to their children. Unfortunately, many times there is no known cause of scoliosis. That’s why as a parent, it’s important for your child to receive his or her regular check-ups, especially around the ages of 10 to 12, since this is when their bodies are experiencing more dramatic changes.

2. Females Are at a Greater Risk of Scoliosis.

According to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, females are more likely to have scoliosis than males. The condition for females is also eight times more likely to worsen. One possible reason why girls have a greater risk of developing scoliosis is the higher amounts of the hormone leptin and higher amounts of activity in the Sympathetic Nervous System (SNS). Researchers have also spent time looking at the development of females compared to males during puberty in order to find associations. Several studies have found that estrogen increases the curve severity of scoliosis.

3. It’s Not Caused by Bad Posture

While it’s important to sit up straight, slouching does not cause scoliosis. Bad posture, in general, will not result in scoliosis. If you do slouch; however, you may develop a temporary condition known as postural scoliosis (nonstructural scoliosis). This condition is a result of curving the spine, but unlike structural scoliosis, nonstructural scoliosis is irreversible and the structure of your spine is still considered normal.

And Remember, You’re Not Alone

Scoliosis affects roughly six to nine million Americans. Even if you’ve never met someone with the condition, know that there are many out there just like you. While it’s common for people with scoliosis to deal with the condition in silence, there are others who are more vocal about their condition given their public life.   

For example, there are numerous accomplished athletes with scoliosis who serve as perfect examples that even physical hurdles can be overcome. Just think of former sprinter Usain Bolt. His nicknames include “Lightning Bolt” and the “Fastest Man in the World”. Up until his retirement in 2017, Bolt was the world’s fastest sprinter and earned several awards including eight Olympic gold medals.

Did you know that Elizabeth Taylor had scoliosis? The iconic star was born with scoliosis and suffered from several other complications throughout her life. In 1994 while filming National Velvet, Taylor broke her back, which led to chronic back pain for the remainder of her life. Despite her complications, life with scoliosis was never a setback for Taylor. She continued to star in numerous films including her biggest role as Cleopatra. 

Other famous people with scoliosis include actress Venessa Williams, world-renowned cellist Yo-Yo Ma, actress Shailene Woodley, superstar Liza Minnelli, Princess Eugenie, professional golfer Dudley Hart, and many others.  

For Scoliosis Treatment in El Paso, Visit Southwest Chiropractic

Your condition doesn’t define you. The treatments available for scoliosis are prime examples that living with the condition is a matter of management. Like many aspects of life, dealing with a condition is how one improves and continues to move forward. That’s why the Southwest Chiropractic team places a strong emphasis on providing El Pasoans with comprehensive scoliosis treatment. We’re committed to helping improve your quality of life. Chiropractic care is a key aspect of this. Connect with us today to learn more.   ​