How to Prevent Scoliosis From Getting Worse
Show: Life Beyond the Curve | Episode: 27 | Date: 2022-05-23 | Duration: 11min
Dr. Justin Dick explains scoliosis progression, why skeletal maturity is the primary trigger, and why adult patients in their 50s-70s can still achieve meaningful improvement with CLEAR treatment.
Topics Covered
- Does scoliosis always get worse - the progressive nature of the condition
- Skeletal maturity as the primary trigger for curve progression
- How CLEAR treatment differs from traditional watch-and-wait
- Whether it is ever too late for CLEAR treatment
- Adult scoliosis outcomes - patients in 50s, 60s, and 70s
- Conservative care as an alternative to surgery in adults
Episode Transcript Excerpt
HOST: Does scoliosis always get worse?
DR. DICK: Well, scoliosis is, by nature, a progressive condition that can get worse over time. The best way to prevent it from getting worse is to be proactive and have a treatment plan in place close to that time of diagnosis as possible. As scoliosis progresses, the spine unfortunately can become more rigid and less responsive to treatment.
HOST: Chiropractic-centered CLEAR treatment - how does it differ, and what does it include?
DR. DICK: We believe in integrating different treatment modalities for the most customized and specific results. Our treatment plans, based on our X-rays and physical exam, are individualized for each patient. At CLEAR, we combine condition-specific chiropractic care, including scoliosis-specific exercises, corrective care bracing, along with a series of chiropractic adjustments specific to that patient, and remodeling.
HOST: Is it ever too late for CLEAR to help adult patients?
DR. DICK: Not a chance. Most of my patient population is 50s, 60s, and 70s. At my practice in Clear Life Scoliosis, I have seen treatment results in my adult patients that are comparable to those in my younger patients. When everybody is told that there are no other options, we see overcomers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does scoliosis always get worse?
Scoliosis is by nature a progressive condition. The best way to prevent it from getting worse is to be proactive and have a treatment plan in place close to the time of diagnosis.
What is the main trigger for scoliosis progression?
Growth is the number one trigger for scoliosis progression. Puberty and scoliosis curve progression are clearly connected.
How does CLEAR treatment differ from traditional scoliosis treatment?
CLEAR treatment integrates condition-specific chiropractic care, scoliosis-specific exercises, corrective bracing, and individualized adjustments - a proactive approach based on each patient's radiographic findings.
Is it ever too late for CLEAR treatment?
Not a chance. Most of Dr. Dick's patient population is in their 50s, 60s, and 70s. Clinical results at Clear Life show treatment outcomes in adult patients comparable to those in younger patients.
