Scoliosis: A Prevalent Problem for Women

Scoliosis is a medical condition that affects the curvature of the spine, causing it to curve to the side in a C or S shape.  According to a study at Indiana University Health, scoliosis is more common in women, with 10% of women in the United States experiening this painful condition compared to only 5% of men.  Furthermore, another study by the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons found that idiopathic scoliosis occurs 10 times more often in females over the age of 10.

While scoliosis affects both men and women, it can be even more problematic and painful in women due to menopause and osteoporosis.  Menopause can lead to a decrease in estorgen levels, which can weaken bones and increase the risk of fractures, making the curvature of the spine more painful.  Osteoporosis, which is a condition where the bones become brittle and fragile, can also exacerbate scoliosis symptoms in women.

Some common symptoms experienced by individuals with scoliosis include:

1.  Pain in the lower, middle or upper back, depending on where the curvature is located.  This pain may be mild or severe and can be aggravated by certain activities.

2.  Numbness and tingling in the arms, hands, legs or feet.  This is often due to the compression of nerves caused by the curvature of the spine.

3.  Fatigue is also a common symptom due to the constant strain on the back muscles and resting can often increase pain levels.  Not being able to rest only worsens these difficult symptoms.

4.  Uneven shoulders and hips due to the curvature of the spine, which can cause one side of the body to be higher than the other.

5.  Breathing difficulties may be present in severe cases due to the compression of the lungs.

While scoliosis can be painful and debilitating, there are treatment options available to help alleviate your symptoms and get you back to living life.  Balcones Pain Consultants offers a unique treatment plan utilizing therapy localization to interrupt painful neural messages, allowing patients to get back to living their lives to the fullest potential.

Surgery may be necessary in the most severe cases of scoliosis, but it is typically reserved as a last resort option.  If physical therapy, medication and/or bracing is not providing the relief you seek, there is another option to help alleviate your pain.

If you suspect you may have scoliosis or are experiencing symptoms associated with this condition, it is important to seek medical care.  At Balcones Pain Consultants, a qualified healthcare professional can reccomend the appropriate treatment plan to identify and treat your specific needs.  Give us a call today at 512-834-4141 or book online at www.BalconesPain.com.