What Is Scoliosis?
Scoliosis is a condition in which the spine curves sideways and may also rotate, creating an uneven spinal shape. The curve can appear in different regions of the spine and may affect posture, shoulder or hip alignment, and movement. Assessment considers the curve's location, pattern, and effect on everyday function.
Quick Facts About Scoliosis
Category
Spinal alignment condition
Used for
Posture and movement assessment
Common confusion
Not simply poor posture
Also called
Spinal Curvature
Often discussed with
Postural Correction
Key Takeaways About Scoliosis
- The spine curves sideways and may rotate.
- Posture and movement patterns can reflect the curve.
- Scoliosis is not the same as ordinary poor posture.
How Scoliosis Works
Scoliosis changes the spine's alignment through a sideways curve that can include rotation of the vertebrae. The visible result may include uneven shoulders, hips, or waist contours, although appearance does not show the full pattern. The curve may involve the upper back, lower back, or both regions.
Related glossary terms: Kyphosis, Anterior Pelvic Tilt, Range of Motion.
Clinical assessment looks at posture, spinal motion, muscle balance, and movement habits. Imaging may help describe the curve when a medical evaluation calls for more detail. Postural Correction addresses related alignment and movement patterns, while spinal curvature remains the central feature being considered. The practical goal is to understand how alignment relates to function during standing, walking, or routine activity.
From the Advanced Injury Care Clinic team
When we assess scoliosis during Postural Correction, we observe spinal alignment, shoulder and pelvic balance, and movement quality. Our team also considers how the person stands, walks, and performs routine movements so the plan reflects functional patterns instead of relying on posture alone.
Scoliosis in Practice: A Real-World Example
A person with scoliosis may show one shoulder sitting higher than the other during a postural assessment. Our team may observe how that alignment changes during walking or simple movement tasks within a Postural Correction visit.
Related Services
Related Terms
Kyphosis
Kyphosis is an excessive outward curve of the upper spine that creates a rounded back appearance…
Anterior Pelvic Tilt
Anterior Pelvic Tilt is a postural position in which the front of the pelvis rotates forward…
Range of Motion
Range of Motion is the amount and direction a joint can move through its available path…
Advanced Injury Care Clinic
Have Questions About Scoliosis?
Contact Advanced Injury Care Clinic for practical guidance on Scoliosis and related chiropractor work in Brentwood.