Ways to investigate scoliosis
The first way to diagnose scoliosis is by studying the medical history of the patient and asking some particular questions. Then, they will conduct a physical examination because scoliosis is visible on the back. At the same time, they can examine the waist, shoulders, and hips.
- Observation– Initially, the doctor suggests observation by taking periodical x-rays after a scheduled time to observe the growth of scoliosis.
- X-Rays– Simple X-ray can help to detect scoliosis. But, regular x-rays help to observe the development of scoliosis and might cause concerns about radiation exposure.
- Ultrasound– Ultrasound produces detailed images of the bones, joints and tissues that help to diagnose pain, inflammation or infection.
- CT Scan– More advanced than an X-ray, a CT scan can help to get images of the shape and size of the spinal cord and its structure.
- MRI– Magnetic resonance imaging can be suggested to recognize the underlying condition behind the deformation of the spine that would have caused scoliosis.
Treatment for Scoliosis
The treatment for scoliosis depends on the position of the curve, bone condition, gender and seriousness of the situation. But, the different kinds of treatment for Scoliosis are:
- Bracing– Since bones are still growing in adolescents, the medical practitioner can suggest a Brace. This will help to avoid further curvature of the spine. But, it is important to put the Brace through the day as well as at night.
- Chiropractic treatment– Chiropractors can help to modify the spine and realign the spine. It will help to heal and improve the spine. It can help to manage the condition but it cannot entirely cure the problem.
- Physiotherapy– Physiotherapy is the best way to treat scoliosis. A physiotherapist can suggest a set of exercises in a custom treatment plan that can improve the positioning of the spinal cord, rib cage and shoulders. Also, it can treat curvature.
- Surgery– When there is an extreme curve of the spinal cord, it can reduce the space between the lungs making breathing difficult. This can have a severe impact on health and surgery can be suggested to straighten the vertebra. It will need a bone graft
Exercises for Ankylosing Spondylitis
Exercise is a good way to improve the pain, movement and mobility of Ankylosing Spondylitis. But, the right exercises are suggested by physiotherapists based on individual cases. Some simple ones can be:
- Stretching– Stretching improves the flexibility of the back that may have become stiff with the disease. Also, it helps to improve the body posture and pain in joints.
- Flexibility exercises– Some specific flexibility exercises improve spine stiffness and its movement to strengthen muscles. The exercises can include holding some positions and making different postures to avoid stiffness.
- Cardiovascular exercise– Ankylosing Spondylitis can affect breathing and some cardiovascular exercises can improve the joints, breathing and cardiovascular health.
- Chin tucks for the neck– This disease causes severe neck pain and stiffness that can extend up to the shoulders and head. But a chin tuck can help. The person has to lie on their back and tuck the chin towards the chest without lifting the head. They can hold the position for 5-7 minutes and repeat it 5 times or as directed by the physiotherapist.
Physiotherapy can make it easy to manage the symptoms of Ankylosing Spondylitis. For this reason, a customised exercise plan by experts can be the ideal solution. DynaFisio Physiotherapy clinic in Gurgaon has the best physiotherapists and modern healthcare facilities to treat Ankylosing Spondylitis effectively to help in leading a happy life.