How can you tell if someone has scoliosis?

Ah, scoliosis – that backwards bendy thing that makes you look like a human question mark. It’s not the most glamorous of conditions, but it affects about 3% of the population, so chances are high that you’ve met someone with scoliosis before. In this article, we’ll go over all the ways you can tell if someone has scoliosis without needing an X-ray machine.

Understanding Scoliosis: What is it?

Before we dive into how to spot scoliosis in others, let’s make sure we’re all on the same page about what exactly scoliosis is.

Scolio-what?, I hear you cry. Essentially, when viewed from behind, our spines should be completely straight (like a ladder). However, people with scoliosis have sideways curves in their spine which leave them looking a little more… spirally than they should.

There are two main types:

Congenital Scoliosis

If someone has congenital (from birth) scolysis it means there were some abnormalities during development; for example your humble author may or may not have been created using dark magic and thus was always meant to look twisted as hell.

Idiopathic Scolysis

Idiopathic simply means doctors don’t know why! It usually pops up during puberty and manifests slowly throughout adolescence until maturity. If left untreated or unnoticed for too long then sadly it doesn’t just magically fix itself

Spotting Scrumptious Spinal Curvatures

Alright folks- pay attention now because here comes list o’ symtoms

Uneven Shoulder Height

If somebody has one shoulder sitting higher than another this might indicate something other than carrying-a-heavier-backpack-on-one-side concerns –it could be a general indicator of scoliosis.

Prominent Shoulder Blade

Similarly, one shoulder blade that noticeably sticks out more than the other may be an indicator

Uneven Waistline

A good clue would also involve uneven waistlines as this can prompt potential ‘fun house mirror’ vibes.

Leaning to One Side

(or ‘the Lopsided Lean’) – often we unconsciously lean into our curves, but sometimes it becomes pretty noticable

Physical Deformity:

Serious cases even result in physical deformity like lumps and bumps visible along the spine which should get checked right away.

How to Confront Your Friend- The Might-be-Scoliosis Sufferer

Time for a heart-to-heart with your friend/family memeber/coworker if you notice anything on this list! However, don’t just go around pointing fingers at people; here are some helpful tips:

  1. Be gentle (gentle nudging is allowed).
  2. Bring up symptoms First rather than simply fully launching into full diagnosis mode.
  3. Let them know that seeking help will only lessen their chances of long term damage!
  4. Comfort is key- nobody wants feel judged

Professional Help or Nah??

Figuring out whether someone you know has scoliosis is all well and good but what’s next?

If none/it’s mild?: While going through life totally aligned may be idealistic in theory, having very mild/nothing too concerning won’t necessarily require medical intervention beyond light chiropractic adjustments perhaps

Moderate/Medium signs? A little PT never hurt anybody ?? This usually requires some hands-on PT work alongside prescribed exercises given by doctors (painkillers optional) .

Severe Cases: In such scenarios things will have progressed quite signifcantly include rotation-provoking lungs issues so get yourselves down to consultant my dear reader!

‘Read More:’ How and Why to Treat Scoliosis

What’s the Word on Braces??

While we’re on treatments, let’s talk about back braces for a sec:

For Mild Cases:

A brace could potentially do more harm than good so doctors generally don’t recommend unless there is already quite severe curvature nd you want avoid an operation in future.

Using Braces for Moderate or Severe Scenarios:

Depending on your specific situation braces may actually be of benefit! These go around your torso (kind of like corsets but medically designed!)

The Bottom Line

Even though scoliosis isn’t something that can be spotted outrightly typically, it doesn’t mean that those who suffer from it should ignore their symptoms. Early detection might seem a small matter however this will lessen any potential need for major spinal surgeries/procedures down the line. Be supportive and uplifting rather than judgey wudgey even if they resemble Spongebob Squarepants; offering positivity can help tremendously!

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