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Background
A 52 year old shift worker (driving electric fork-lift from 11pm – 7 am) presented with Scoliosis, deteriorating gait, and balance problems. Previously a footballer, he was concerned about his loss of of motor control and function of lower limb. He did not want to lose his independence, and end up in a wheelchair. His limp has progressively deteriorated over the last 22 years. A tendency to constipation (1 in 3 days) and increased urinary frequency had also been noted.
Treatment
A workplace assessment was performed, and a combination of specific exercises and key behavior modifications were used to address this occupationally induced curve. No bracing procedures were involved. Exercises were performed for 1.5 hours per day every day, and visits to the office were done twice weekly.
Visual improvement over 8 weeks
Results
- Cosmetic improvement in the body was seen within the first two weeks
- The incline of the bottom vertebra (L3) reduced from 30 degrees to 20 degrees over a 4 week period. As of end November 2013, the Cobb angle had also reduced from 47 degrees to 40.
- Movement of the spine to midline (From 71mm away to 44 mm away from midline)
- Further reductions are likely given the short span of time. The posture picture also indicates that the December reading may also be favorable.
Discussion
This case demonstrates the spine’s potential, even in severe surgical cases (40+ degrees), to show signs of correction once key behavioural factors are identified and corrected. It is insufficient to think that this in itself will reduce the curve however it is plausible to suggest that a curve of this magnitude maybe stabilized once aggravating factors are removed / controlled.
Although this dramatic reduction may not be achievable in every case it shows that even in surgical cases reduction and progression can occur within short time frames, hence it is extremely important that monitoring be done regularly. Monitoring of key behavioural factors and the implementation of isometric and body positioning exercises are required to maintain the correction or achieve further reduction. Stabilization may be all that is achieved in some cases and a reduction may be possible in others.
NB: Results vary from case to case. Our commitment is to make a break-through for large curves and to prevent smaller curves from getting bigger. Where reduction is possible it is often seen within months.
If you are interested in seeing whether we can help change your Scoliosis today, please phone us on 02 8005 6561. We would love to help.