Case Studies
Case Study 8 – Scoliosis Treatment
This case study is of a 57 yr. old adult, 35° Lumbar dextro-scoliosis (convexity to Rt at L1-2). She has been able to achieve significant improvements in visual appearance, reduction in Cobb angles and empowerment. An example of scoliosis management without bracing or surgery.
Background:
An adult lady presented with a single C-shaped lumbar curve with a Cobb angle of 34°. Her curve was originally diagnosed at 5° in adolescence though increased through adulthood. Unable to stop this progression, this athletic lady presented with episodes of acute spasm that took months to recover from.
Scoliosis had both a significant physical and psychological impact on her life. Importantly, outdoor physical acitivites were curbed and indoor tutoring were disrupted.
Worried that her Scoliosis will further affect her lifestyle and career in the future, she pursued an effective management solution from many practitioners.
Her goal was to ensure that her muscle spasms could be managed, that her spine would not continue to progress, and that she would be able to exercise and work for many more years to come.
Method
As in all cases, effective management comes from appraising the lifestyle, medical history and x-rays. The setting of realistic meaningful goals and treatment plans are formulated to give both client and practitioner something to aim for. Actively collaboration is reinforced and in addition to the initial history further discussions about lifestyle ensued for 5 months.
Therapy
2 x 2hr sessions a week were used in the clinic to assess if initial change was possible
Exercise was then encouraged in both a dedicated time format and also incorporated in normal activities.
Specific exercises were continually tailored over the 5 months.
A workplace task analysis also revealed what to avoid. Harmful behaviours were identified in bush regeneration work and more importantly as a tutor.
Results (Over 5 months)
- On X-ray the Cobb angle reduced from 34° to 25° and moved closer to centre (middle photograph).
- Head remains more centred over the body
- Left sided waist curve has decreased and right-sided curve is appearing – symmetry is almost achieved.
- Frequency of pain and muscle spasms had significantly reduced. Certain exercises were found to increase pain and discontinued. The straightening of the spine was also thought to contribute to more even loading of the spine.
Discussion
This client was very dedicated and responded well to active treatment and behaviour modifications.
A visual improvement and overall reduction of 9 degrees achieved.
Whilst this is a satisfactory result over 5 months, with further clarity as to the cause of this scoliosis, stabilisation and possibly further reduction is likely.
These positive changes are supported by an X-ray which demonstrated a reduction in her Cobb angle from 34° to 25°.
Given the improvements and increased understanding, the chances of this lady’s spine progressing beyond 35° are now unlikely. Pain and muscle spasms were noticeably reduced over the first few months.
Certain exercises were trialled for both comfort and ease of application ultimately culminating in a close analysis of writing behaviours when tutoring. This had a profound effect on displacement of the spine away from midline and muscle activation.
With this knowledge, improvements to the third photograph ensued. This lady reported the development of muscles on the left side of her lower waist, which had previously become weak due to Scoliosis.
The understanding gained and improvements noted to this degree qualify for partial success. Ultimate success is determined by a follow-up film (Gold Standard)
Meaningful goals were realised.
Prognosis:
Unsure as to whether reduction to zero can be achieved, however a good gain was made in 5 months with more certainty for control, rather than progression.
All results on this site have been achieved without bracing, machines, surgery or medications.
Disclaimer: These results are not indicative that this can be achieved in every case.
See Also:
- Scoliosis Case Study 1
- Scoliosis Case Study 2
- Scoliosis Case Study 3
- Scoliosis Case Study 4
- Scoliosis Case Study 5
Case Study 7 – Scoliosis Treatment
This case is an example of a large & aggressive ‘C’ shaped curve at 59 degrees in a young girl aged 13.
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Background:
A young lady, 13 at the time and in year 8, presented with a large single ‘C’ shaped curve measuring 59 degrees. She reported spinal pain occurring 50—75% of the time and growing deformity over the last 8 – 12 months. She was concerned about her breathing problems, possibility of degeneration and the likelihood of surgery. It was affecting her sitting and sleep positions and other daily routines. Interventions were required to stabilize the curve and to achieve reduction where possible. Surgery was advocated within 8 months.
Method
An initial consultation was arranged and the client’s medical history, lifestyle behaviours were analysed. The severity of the Scoliosis was assessed and measured. Preventative and proactive strategies to manage Scoliosis were then formulated, which empowered the client and her family with the knowledge to manage her own curve.
With surgery looming, this client commenced a 3-week daily intensive programme (3-hours per day). Sample exercises were trialled over the first first 3 days before settling on a specific programme of what to ‘do’ and ‘avoid’. Based on her spine’s responsiveness to the exercises, the most effective exercises were then tailored to her specific curve and maintained through the intensive period.
Results
- Her curvature humping flattened considerably
- The spine moved quite dramatically to centre with an increase of 12 mm in the 3 weeks
Visual improvement over three weeks
Discussion
The client responded well to preventive strategies and active treatment. As seen from the images and reported results, the client demonstrated movement of her spine towards the middle of the body, No follow up x-rays were taken nor necessary to demonstrate improvement.
One step better than stabilisation is reduction. This is not always achieved though was apparent in this case. The Gold Standard for measuring remains with x-ray, however if results can be visualised to this extent, x-rays may not be warranted. This case follows an intensive 3-week 3hourly session performed from late Nov to early Dec 2014.
Slouching is all too prevalent in our society and avoidance of this is one of the key components for a healthy spinal shape. Screens as in this case can lead to altered bio-mechanics and parents are well advised if they adopt a home strategy of advising their children to use screens at the table / desk.
Severe curves as seen in this case require urgent intervention.
Prognosis: Expectation is that this spine is likely to continue to centre given follow-up care over 1 year.
All results on this site have been achieved without bracing, machines, surgery or medications.
Disclaimer: These results are not indicative that this can be achieved in every case.
See Also:
- Scoliosis Case Study 1
- Scoliosis Case Study 2
- Scoliosis Case Study 3
- Scoliosis Case Study 4
- Scoliosis Case Study 5
- Scoliosis Case Study 6
Case Study 6 – Scoliosis Treatment
This case is an example of a significant low ‘C’ curve responding to preventive and proactive treatment strategies. The first X-ray was taken prior to starting care and revealed an increase of 17 degrees (in 11 months) to a 71 degree Cobb angle. The second X-ray was taken 2 weeks after the initial consultation and when the first recommendation was given. That is before any intensive treatment began. The third X-ray was taken at the conclusion of two weeks treatment.
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Background:
A year 10 student presented with a single C shaped lumbar (71° Cobb angle). The curve had progressed 6 degrees in the two weeks preceding treatment to a total of a 17 degree increase within the last 11 months. She reported little discomfort, although her appearance indicated constant leaning towards the left. Given her scoliosis’s potential to grow at her age, the severity of her Scoliosis, and the spinal curve being significantly off centre, progression with surgery looking increasingly likely. Interventions were urgently required to stabilize the curve and to achieve reduction where possible.
Method
Scoliosis care commenced and the family’s concerns were articulated, and the client’s medical history, lifestyle, and Scoliosis were extensively assessed. Practical preventative and proactive strategies to manage Scoliosis were then formulated, which empowered the client and created relief for her family with the knowledge that something could now be done to manage her the curve, instead of ‘watching and waiting’.
Two weeks after the initial consultation, this year 10 student decided to commence a 2 week daily intensive programme (4 hours a day). Specific exercises were introduced in the first few days to discover the appropriate approach to address the curve. Based on her spine’s responsiveness to the exercises, the most effective exercises were then tailored to her specific curve and maintained through the intensive period.
Results
- The cobb angle reduced from 71° to 65° – Update: Great News! The client has further improved her Scoliosis in the time with us. Her curve has now been reduced to 58 degrees.
- The spine’s maximum point away from centre consecutively de-translated (moved to centre) from 80 mm to 68 mm to 60 mm from midline.
- T7 is now aligned with the centre of the spine.
- The angle of the bottom vertebra changed from 43 degrees to 34 degrees.
Discussion
The client responded well to preventive strategies and active treatment. As seen from the images and reported results, the client demonstrated movement of her spine towards the middle of the body, and consecutive reductions in Cobb angle were observed.
The potential of preventative strategies to improve or stabilize Scoliosis can be observed in this particular case.
The first x-ray is the client’s spine prior to the implementation of preventative strategies discussed in the initial consultation. The second x-ray was taken before intensive treatment, and demonstrates an improvement in the spines positioning towards the midline.
With active treatment, the client was able to further translate her spine closer to midline, resulting in a drop from 80 mm to 60 mm by the end of her 2 weeks. Her Cobb angle was also able to reduce to 65 degrees. The bottom vertebra that was tilted the most changed in its angle of inclination as well. Initially at 43 degrees from horizontal, the angle changed to 41 then 34 degrees. The movement to midline is largely affected by what happened at this level.
The client is expected to continue to improve with the implementation of preventive strategies (e.g. behaviour modification) and exercise on a regular basis for the following months (twice weekly sessions in the clinic for 1-2 hours after school, along with regular exercise at home). With continued de-translation and de-rotation of the spine, she is expected to significantly reduce her Cobb angles, further translate her spine to the centre, and thus stabilize her spine in the coming months.
Please note that severe curves as seen in this case require urgent intervention. As previously described on our Scoliosis page, high Cobb angled curves have a significant chance to proceed over time, and this will subsequently further increase concern and urgency. The chances of the spine to twist even further and for instrumentation (surgery) become more urgent.
The more ‘off-line’ the spine, the more danger there is in the spine sinking and twisting (rotating). This case demonstrate that a spine can be brought back to mid-iline and also shows a decreasing Cobb angle. Further work is required to de-rotate the spine once it has hit midline. Midline was achieved in this case in a rapid time frame. De-rotation (unwinding) exercises and strategies are advocated.
All results on this site have been achieved without bracing, machines, surgery or medications.
Disclaimer: These results are not indicative that this can be achieved in every case.
See Also:
- Scoliosis Case Study 1
- Scoliosis Case Study 2
- Scoliosis Case Study 3
- Scoliosis Case Study 4
- Scoliosis Case Study 5
Case Study 5 – Scoliosis Treatment
Case 5 is an extreme case. A 47 year old lady with significant pain and quality of life issues was able to reduce her Scoliosis curve from 90° to 73°. As a result, her pain was reduced and her quality of life improved. This is a remarkable testament of the spine’s potential to improve even at a mature age.
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Background
A 47- year old mother presented with a very severe Scoliosis curve measured at 90 degrees. Diagnosed with scoliosis at 53 degrees 23 years prior, she experienced significant pain and disability, and needed three very strong and addictive painkillers on a daily basis in order to cope. She experienced difficulty walking and sleeping and on several occasions was wheelchair bound and hospitalised.
She was urgently advised by specialists to undertake scoliosis surgery within two years otherwise face the likely scenario of being in a wheelchair permanently. Struggling with a low quality of life and a bleak future and with little confidence in surgical procedures, she was keen to start non-surgical approach.
Treatment
Scoliosis care commenced after a detailed analysis of her history and behavioral patterns. A 2-fold strategy was implemented where key behaviors were addressed and specific exercises were tailored to her unique curve, and performed for 3-4 hours a day over a 2-week daily intensive programme. Key behavioral hazards were identified and eliminated with the view to halt progression and control the pain.
Specific spinal exercises were also used to attempt to reduce the curve..
Visual improvement over 2 Weeks
Results
- Her visual appearance improved (as seen from above pictures)
- A 17 degree consecutive drop in the curve, from 90° to 78° to 73°, was seen by the end of week 2.
- Reduced pain and a subsequent reduction in medications with one prescription painkiller stopped altogether.
- Lung capacity improvements – cessation of smoking during care.
- Increased Sleep (could only sleep for 2-3 hours at beginning of care). She is now able to sleep through the night.
Discussion
Traditional assumptions about Scoliosis would suggest that this lady would have no option but to undertake surgical treatment. This is due to her severe “surgical” curve (90° Cobb angle), and her mature age (47 years of age).
However, this case demonstrates the spine’s potential to improve despite challenging odds. Her spine was able to respond well to non-surgical treatment, and the results were encouraging.
With her sustained efforts, a final X-ray on day 14 indicated a 17° reduction in her spinal curve. She reported this reduction as “life-changing”, as it subsequently improved other aspects of her life.
She reported having improved sleep as she did not wake up as often from pain. She stated that she now only takes half the amount of painkillers, and has even dropped one painkiller medication altogether. Furthermore, she stated that she can look after her three children without having to worry as much about her future with them. Such changes are a positive start. With continued exercises and guidance at home, it will be expected that her curve can be further reduced, and her quality of life will continue to improve.
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.
All results on this site have been achieved without bracing, machines, surgery or medications.
See Also:
- Scoliosis Case Study 1
- Scoliosis Case Study 2
- Scoliosis Case Study 3
- Scoliosis Case Study 4
- Scoliosis Case Study 6 (NEW)
Case Study 4 – Scoliosis Treatment
This case is a very good example of an unstable and highly aggressive double major scoliosis that responded to therapy over a 2-week intensive period of care; convex to the left in the lumbar spine and to the right in the thoracic spine. The curves are evenly spaced across the midline – i.e. the centre of gravity. Click here to jump to results
Background
This thinly built 14 year-old high school student presented with 2 rapidly aggressive curves now measuring 51˚ – 55˚ and 60˚, a doubling in just two years. She experienced little discomfort. Her appearance indicated some leaning to the left though the symmetrical nature of the curve (similar angles) disguised the scoliosis. As the overall appearance did not indicate the degree or severity of such curves, the discovery of the scoliosis naturally came as a shock to both the young lady and her parents. The mother made the discovery upon noticing bumps upon her daughter’s forward bending. With marked progression the family were keen to prevent surgery.
Treatment
Scoliosis care commenced with a 2-week daily intensive programme.
Specific exercises were introduced in order to find the most effective way forward.
Care began with a series of reduction exercises that were maintained throughout the intensive period. Our client was able to attend school throughout the intensive programme.
Results
The x-ray images indicate a decrease in the upper curve from 51 to 49 degrees and a large decrease in the lower curve from 60 to 44 degrees (16 degrees over the 2-week intensive). The vertebral angles were recorded as follows:
Tilt of vertebrae (Vert.) from Horizontal – (measured in degrees) | |||
Day 0 | Day 5 | Day 12 | |
Apical Vert. (T5) | 20 | 20 | 20 |
Pivot Vert. (T11) | 32 | 24 | 24 |
Terminal Vert. (L4) | 26 | 21 | 21 |
Top Cobb Angle | 51 | 49 | 49 |
Bottom Cobb Angle | 60 | 44 | 44 |
Discussion
This client demonstrates an encouraging initial response over a 2-week period. Early signs of curve reduction and muscle memory were demonstrated.
A pre-exercise x-ray (Day 12) was taken to see if early results were maintained through the development of muscle memory. A more centered and symmetrical structure was seen at the end of 2 weeks. This is a positive start to achieving stabilization and possible reduction in the long term.
Swift changes of this magnitude defy current medical opinion and are suggestive of a highly unstable curve. For curves of this size and rate of progression, only one option is generally presented – Surgery. Whilst the natural history of this type of curve is of rapid progression, corrective forces (specific exercises) and the modification and / or elimination of harmful behaviors, caused not only a reduction but a possible stabilization strategy. Surgery is less of a chance going forward.
A behavioral / exercise model (finesse) is highly recommended instead of a surgical approach (force) for large and aggressive curves with far less physical and psychological risk from the therapy itself.There is hope for improvement in many large curves regardless of age. (see previous cases)
Whilst the cause of scoliosis is rarely identified, it is highly recommended that the pursuit of such driving factors be closely investigated. A logical and systematic analysis of behaviours may uncover dangerous factors that cause progression. Long-term success is dependent on uncovering causes to scoliosis. An effective strategy that reduces risk factors with the addition and implementation of specific spinal isometric exercises lead to the initial reduction above.
At all times curvature control is best done early so as to prevent progression and further deformity. Delay only leads to a poorer quality of life, more concern, a feeling of being out of control and also increased financial pressures.
With aggressive curves monitoring over a well identified and dangerous period (growth spurt during adolescence) can be highly advantageous. This not only minimises progression but assists with reduction. As the spine grows – it has the potential to grow taller not just sideways. Taking action rather than following dangerous ‘Watch and Wait’ advice is advised.
The associated risks with surgery and bracing are considerable and can be avoided with a behavioural / risk analysis and spinal isometric approach.
As stated above, the forward bending test to detect scoliosis can be too late for the early management of scoliosis. For a more sensitive and accurate examination please call or send an email to [email protected].
All results on this site have been achieved without bracing, machines, surgery or medications.
These results are not indicative that this can be achieved in every case.
See Also:
- Scoliosis Case Study 1
- Scoliosis Case Study 2
- Scoliosis Case Study 3
- Scoliosis Case Study 5
- Scoliosis Case Study 6 (NEW)
Case Study 3 – Scoliosis Treatment
Background
This 26 year old seamstress was diagnosed with a short leg and scoliosis at 13. As an emerging fashion designer, severe pain and cosmetic disfiguration were concerns. Pain was noticed while sitting at the drawing table, during long road trips (anywhere from 1+ hours) and from standing for prolonged periods of time. A disciplined and active lady, she enjoyed spin classes, yoga, body balance and Taichi group fitness classes 2-3 /wk. Previous attempts at scoliosis reduction via muscle strengthening were unsuccessful. Her scoliosis progressed during this time and her spine began leaning to the left. Veterbral rotation associated with a spinal bump on forward bending was also evident.
Treatment
Spinal care began with a 2-week daily program in order to select the most beneficial exercises. Behavioural activities were analyzed to enhance awareness awareness of dangerous habits that could aggravate the scoliosis. Specific exercises were used to reverse the curve. In the second week a specified plan of action was identified and has remained constant till the present.
Neck restoration exercises were also incorporated into the routine also to reduce the Forward Head Carriage. Once the 2-week intensive was completed, Skype consultations were performed twice weekly at first to monitor progress. Skype enabled both ‘fine-tunings’ to exercises and a further analysis of in home/office activities.
Results (Over 6 weeks, the following results were noted):
- By day 10, she achieved a 4 degree drop (32 to 28 degrees)
- Successive decreases were noted. Overall, the curve reduced by 25%.
- Her spine was centered completely. This change was noticeably different in her visual appearance.
Discussion
Here are several points of interest.
At 26, it is commonly understood that a curve can only be stabilized during this time. Here we present a reduction in the curve. Over six weeks she was able to decrease the angle of her bottom (terminal) vertebra, from 19° to 14°(as measured from horizontal). In the same amount of time the top (apical) vertebra’s inclination was reduced form 13° to 10°.
In this case, the spine’s central alignment was achieved first, followed by the reduction of the angles of the apical (top vertebrae) and terminal (bottom vertebra).
I. AIS is often discovered by parents around the early teens time, especially in the absence of school screening programmes. Bending forward, as in to touch the toes, can be a simple enough test to look for signs of AIS.
II. The “watch and wait” (traditional) scenario is ill-advised. It disempowers and wastes precious time often resulting in angst and worry. Valuable healing time is lost here.
III. This patient’s first week was used to eliminate faulty Yoga positions and other prescribed exercises. This selection/elimination process can take two or more weeks to refine, though once the correct strategy is identified, results can be seen within hours (see Case 4).
IV. Scoliosis and pain do not necessarily coincide. In this particular case the patient suffered from acute pain as well as cosmetic deformity (only some people with Scoliosis suffer back pain.
V. Scoliosis may affect family planning, occupational objectives and quality of life.
VI. Arthritis commonly occurs on the concavity of a spinal curvature (see case 2), so through the curve’s reduction, the risk of arthritis is also reduced.
VII. All big curves start out small. Progression often occurs AFTER skeletal maturity is reached (contrary to common belief). This is why when a brace is removed the curve needs to be monitored. Deterioration is common. In some studies only 1 in 6 people will hold their corrections after bracing.
VIII.The use of x-rays is the gold standard for analyzing curve reduction / progression.
1. Have films taken the films from Back to Front. (not Front to Back) This is the most direct way to see and measure scoliosis curves,
2. Avoid successive lateral views (side-on views). Most of the time these are unnecessary for viewing Scoliosis curves unless specifically warranted. They yield little additional information and carries far more exposure (up to x3 more) than a Back to Front film.
3. Shield the ovaries (lead filters), breast tissue and thyroid. Wherever possible this is to be encouraged.
4. Avoid full body scanning where possible and use single films that capture one or all curvatures.
5. All films are to be done weight bearing (standing) where possible.
IX. Remote consultations (Skype) were successful in achieving a further drop (28 to 24 degrees) after the intensive period of care. This is an interesting development in that people with Scoliosis in remote areas or with families with time/travel constraints and other dependents may find assistance via telemedicine (Skype).
X. Anatomical Leg Length differences are quite common in the population and Leg Length Inequality (LLI) may account for sacral unleveling and subsequent scoliosis. The use of a left heel lift may be beneficial in this case. To date, success has been achieved without it.
XI. Curve reductions are definitely possible for people in their 20’s or above. A youthful spine will not determine success.
No supports, bracing or products were used to achieve this reduction. There is hope without bracing or invasive surgery.
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.
See Also:
Case Study 2 – Scoliosis Treatment
This case is an example of a 51 year old adult male with Scoliosis. He was able to reduce his Cobb angle from 28 degrees to 16 degrees, improve his visual appearance, and return to hobbies he enjoyed (e.g. tennis).
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Background
This patient is a 51 year-old illustrator who enjoys his work, gym and tennis. His scoliosis was measured at 28˚ 11 years prior to entering St Jude’s. He was leaning even further in the direction of his scoliosis to reduce pain, which served to further exacerbate his existing curve.
The condition at this time prevented him from work, walking, sitting and any recreation or exercise (yoga). He attempted to relieve this pain through massage and acupuncture before turning to professional care at St Jude’s Clinic where he reported having back pain a steady 75% of the time. The pain was worse after sitting for long periods and was gradually changing and worsening with time. The patient reported that his father, and quite possibly his sister, also had the condition.
The pain, in addition to the Scoliosis, was the patient’s main concern now and was thought to be related to recent renovations during the past 5 months. The first episode occurred in 2002, the next 3 months ago and the last episode 3 weeks ago. The Scoliosis was never treated prior to attending St Jude’s Clinic. The client was also diagnosed with an acute right sided disc bulge.
Treatment
Specific behavioral techniques were employed to return the bulging disc to a more central location.
A combination of exercises were suggested in an attempt to:
1. Straighten as much of the spine as is possible.
2. Restore neck curvature and decrease forward head posture/translation.
Bracing was excluded from all therapy. No heel raises / lifts were used to achieve the straightened spine.
Exercises were performed in the clinic and at home with clinic sessions lasting 2 hours on a 3-weekly basis. The frequency was then reduced after re-evaluating, to twice a week for 6 weeks and then weekly throughout Dec 2013. Home exercises were encouraged for two 30 minutes sessions per day.
Visual Improvement over 5 weeks
Results
- The gentleman was able to touch his toes by his 3rd visit and perform a confidence-building sit-up by the 5th visit.
- The patient’s curve was reduced from 28˚ to 16˚, though at this curve our patient still suffered from debilitating lower back pain which restricted his mobility.
- The inclination of his bottom vertebra (L3) initially measured 14˚ from the horizontal. One month later from his initial consultation at St Jude’s, the L3 was now at 12˚. As the next few days progressed, cosmetic improvements appeared. Notice that the left side of the body regains its crease (similar to the right side), and the body became more midline.
- 2 months after his initial consultation the bottom tilted vertebra was reduced to 4˚ from horizontal and the spine appears “straight”. This improvement has been maintained since 4th October 2013.
Discussion
Disc pain and the irregular postures it can cause, are created by bulging discs and muscle spasms. The body attempts to remain upright but off centre to compensate for this pain, thus creating an irregular position, which gradually becomes a natural posture to the person concerned.
Relapse is quite common, even after treatment, especially in the hotter months, which is why it is important to continue the prescribed exercises with consistency and persistence to maintain improvements.
Our patient’s lopsided presentation is due to a right-sided disc bulge, and a supposed pre-existing scoliosis adding to the asymmetry. His previous episode of sciatica in 2002 was avoided, as this case was caught early. Home renovations and the hotter weather were the likely aggravating factors. Surgery in repeated cases of sciatica is a last resort option and can frequently be avoided.
Given factors such as the man’s age and muscle build, mobility was able to be achieved and reduction of antalgic scoliosis (as opposed to adolescent idiopathic scoliosis) was also possible – creases appearing on either side of the waist now. The patient has now returned to the tennis court with key behavioural factors in place as his guide to safe and enjoyable playing. These behavioural factors are vitally important in creating a more symmetrical appearance and are required to maintain improvements or even achieve further reduction of the scoliosis (to 4˚) where possible. Stabilisation may be all that is achieved in some cases while a reduction possible is easily within reach for others.
Factors such as age and body-type are thought to hinder correction due to rigidity and chronic changes. In this particular case of acute induced scoliosis a reduction was achieved. The 1st and 3rd x-ray reveal a structural short leg of 13mm. Spinal alignment was achieved without the use of any foot orthoses (heel lift). When a heel lift is introduced the 4 degree L3 inclination is reduced to 2 degrees.
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. This man received treatment and from us and saw results in only 3 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.
See Also
Case Study 1 – Scoliosis Treatment
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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.