Conditions We Treat

Scoliosis

Expert chiropractic care for scoliosis at Sycamore Chiropractic in Laguna Hills, CA.

Understanding Your Condition

What Is Scoliosis?

Scoliosis is a lateral curvature of the spine that exceeds 10 degrees, often accompanied by vertebral rotation. It can develop during adolescent growth spurts (idiopathic scoliosis) or later in life due to degenerative changes (adult or degenerative scoliosis). While mild curves may cause no symptoms, moderate to severe scoliosis can produce back pain, postural asymmetry, reduced lung capacity, and diminished quality of life. Chiropractic care does not straighten a scoliotic spine, but it plays an important role in managing symptoms, improving function, slowing curve progression, and enhancing the effectiveness of other treatments like bracing. Dr. Petersen provides individualized scoliosis care for both adolescents and adults.

Signs to Watch For

Common Symptoms

Visible lateral curvature of the spine
Uneven shoulders or hip heights
One shoulder blade protruding more than the other
An asymmetric waistline or torso shift
Back pain or muscle fatigue, especially after prolonged standing
Reduced spinal flexibility or range of motion
In severe cases: difficulty breathing or rib prominence

Drug-Free Relief

How Chiropractic Helps

Chiropractic adjustments improve the mobility of restricted spinal segments throughout the scoliotic curve. Because scoliosis causes some vertebrae to lock in rotated, laterally shifted positions, gentle adjustments restore motion where the spine is most rigid. This reduces pain, improves posture, and helps slow curve progression by preventing further fixation of the vertebrae.

A scoliosis-specific exercise program is essential. Dr. Petersen prescribes asymmetric exercises that target the specific pattern of your curve — strengthening the muscles on the concave side while stretching the convex side. These exercises, sometimes based on Schroth-method principles, train the brain and body to maintain a more balanced posture throughout daily activities. Postural education and ergonomic adjustments complement the in-office treatments.

Your Path to Recovery

Our Treatment Approach

The initial evaluation includes a detailed postural analysis, spinal range-of-motion testing, Adam's forward-bend test, and standing X-rays to measure the Cobb angle (degree of curvature). For adolescents, growth status is assessed to predict curve progression risk. Treatment frequency is typically two visits per week, with periodic X-ray re-evaluation to monitor the curve. Dr. Petersen collaborates with orthopedic specialists when bracing or surgical consultation is indicated.

Treatments We Use

Related Services

Chiropractic Adjustments

Corrective Exercises

Posture Correction

Common Questions

Scoliosis FAQ

Chiropractic care cannot fully straighten a scoliotic curve, but it can reduce pain, improve mobility, slow progression, and enhance overall spinal function. Many patients experience measurable Cobb angle improvements, particularly when chiropractic is combined with scoliosis-specific exercises.

Yes, when performed by an experienced chiropractor. Dr. Petersen uses age-appropriate, low-force techniques for younger patients. Regular monitoring ensures the curve is managed appropriately during the critical growth period.

This depends on curve severity, age, and growth status. Active treatment typically involves two visits per week, with re-evaluation every eight to twelve weeks. After the curve stabilizes, maintenance visits one to two times per month are recommended.

Yes. Degenerative scoliosis develops in adults due to disc degeneration, facet joint arthritis, and ligament laxity. It is increasingly common after age 50. Chiropractic care is particularly effective for managing the pain and stiffness associated with degenerative scoliosis.

Bracing is typically recommended for adolescents with curves between 25 and 40 degrees who are still growing. Adults generally do not benefit from bracing. Dr. Petersen works with your orthopedic team to determine the best combination of bracing, exercise, and chiropractic care for your situation.

Ready to Find Relief?

Don't let scoliosis hold you back. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Petersen and take the first step toward lasting relief.

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