Scoliosis Treatments
in Ottawa

Scoliosis is a complex spinal condition characterized by an abnormal lateral curvature of the spine. While it can affect individuals of all ages, it’s most commonly diagnosed during adolescence.

At Kent Chiro-Med Wellness Clinic, we offer a multidisciplinary approach to scoliosis treatment, combining evidence-based chiropractic care with other complementary therapies.

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Scoliosis Treatments in Ottawa Overview

Scoliosis can occur in any part of the spine. The curvature may occur on the left or right side. It can affect the mid or lower part of the spine. It is considered a spinal deformity. 

If the curvature is slight, a doctor may recommend that the individual treat it with balance exercises and avoid carrying heavy objects on one side of the body.

But in more serious cases of scoliosis, it can lead to complications. People with scoliosis may develop unevenness in their hips, shoulders, and torso. They may feel self-conscious about the way they look.

The condition can also cause back pain. It can cause the rib cage to press against the lungs creating breathing issues.

Serious scoliosis conditions may require ongoing management and treatments to help reduce pain and prevent the abnormal curvature from worsening. Surgery may be necessary.

scoliosis treatments in ottawa

Table of Contents

Understanding Scoliosis

We can gain a better understanding of scoliosis by becoming familiar with its causes and symptoms.

Common Causes

Scoliosis may be caused by the following factors:

  • Hereditary factors
  • Spinal injuries or infections
  • Chest surgery during infanthood
  • Birth defects and irregularities
  • Cerebral palsy, muscular dystrophy, and other neuromuscular skeletal conditions

Your age and gender will also factor in. The condition usually begins during adolescence. It can occur in either gender, but it is more common for girls.

Scoliosis Symptoms

Symptoms include:

  • Uneven shoulders or shoulder blades
  • Uneven hip height
  • Uneven waist
  • Rib cage jutting out on one side
  • One side of the back jutting out when bending forward

In most scoliosis cases, the spine will curve and twist forcing the ribs and muscles to stick out on one side of the body.  The symptom of scoliosis causes unevenness throughout the body.

Our chiropractic treatments are based on advanced techniques and specific protocols for scoliosis.

A study published in the Journal of Chiropractic Medicine (2011) demonstrated a significant reduction in the Cobb angle in patients with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis after a 6-month chiropractic treatment

Chiropractic Approach to Scoliosis

Most scoliosis cases are treated with a brace.
The doctor will monitor progress and condition severity with an x-ray.

In severe cases, surgery may be recommended to prevent symptoms from getting worse.
But scoliosis treatment chiropractic care can serve as a noninvasive, all-natural alternative therapy to traditional treatment. 

Chiropractic Treatments Ottawa

CBP (Chiropractic BioPhysics®) offers a unique approach to scoliosis treatment by addressing not just symptoms, but the underlying structural issues of the spine.

- Dr. Deed Harrison, President of CBP NonProfit, states.

Chiropractic care addresses spinal misalignment. Scoliosis is a type of spinal misalignment. So, can a chiropractor help?

A 2011 study showed that patients treated with chiropractic techniques for two years with chiropractic adjustment and other techniques experienced reduced pain and improvements in Cobb angle (which measures spinal deformities) and disability. More studies are needed to determine the long-term results of spinal adjustments among bigger patient groups.

Benefits for Scoliosis Patients:

  • Improves spinal alignment
  • Reduces Cobb angle
  • Alleviates pain associated with scoliosis

Orthotics are shoe inserts that may be customized to reduce curvature of the spine and associated pain. A heel lift can be placed in the shoe of the ‘shorter leg’ to improve balance. The treatment may prevent scoliosis from worsening and relieve scoliotic pain. However, it is unknown whether it can correct existing curvatures.

Benefits for Scoliosis Patients:

  • May prevent scoliosis from worsening
  • Relieves scoliotic pain
  • Improves balance with targeted heel lifts
Custom Orthotics​
Spinal Decompression Therapy

Spinal decompression can be a valuable non-invasive option for scoliosis patients, potentially helping to reduce pain and improve spinal alignment.

- Dr. Allan Dyer, a pioneer in spinal decompression therapy

Some scoliosis patients may experience pain due to the vertebrae pinching the nerves in the back. Spinal decompression uses gentle manipulation to stretch the vertebrae and relieve the pressure on the nerves scoliosis can cause. While it may reduce curvature of the spine, it is more commonly recommended as a scoliosis pain relief treatment.

  • Reduces pressure on spinal discs
  • Alleviates pain associated with nerve compression
  • May help improve spinal alignment

Shockwave therapy promotes healing in the body. The chiropractor uses a device that sends shockwaves to injured tissues to promote a healing response. It stimulates growth hormones and blood circulation in the affected area.

The therapy has been shown to improve scoliosis symptoms by mobilizing neural structures that inhibit spine mobility. More studies are needed to determine long-term effects.

Shockwave therapy is a non-invasive treatment that uses sound waves to stimulate healing in injured tissues. It is often used for chronic musculoskeletal conditions, including scoliosis, to promote tissue repair and reduce pain.

  • Evidence: Research suggests that shockwave therapy may be beneficial for reducing pain and improving mobility in some patients with scoliosis. For example, a study published in the Journal of Orthopaedic & Sports Physical Therapy (2018) found that shockwave therapy led to significant improvements in pain and function in patients with chronic low back pain, a condition that often accompanies scoliosis. However, more studies are needed to determine the long-term effectiveness of shockwave therapy specifically for scoliosis.

  • Potential Benefits: Shockwave therapy is believed to work by:

    • Increasing blood flow to the affected area.

    • Stimulating the growth of new blood vessels.

    • Promoting tissue regeneration.

    • Reducing inflammation.

  • Potential Risks: Shockwave therapy is generally considered safe, but potential side effects may include minor bruising, discomfort, or swelling at the treatment site.

Shockwave Therapy Treatments
Spinal Decompression therapy

Physiotherapy is a type of physical therapy that focuses on soft tissue, myofascial release, massage, and stretching. The therapist will work out a treatment plan that is suited to the patient’s scoliosis-specific chiropractic needs.

Scoliosis physiotherapy may include exercises that target muscle imbalance and improve posture and mobility. It helps relieve pain and may eliminate the need for a brace.

Search ‘scoliosis physiotherapy near me’ to find providers in your area.

Benefits for Scoliosis Patients:

  • Targets muscle imbalance
  • Improves posture and mobility
  • Relieves pain
  • May eliminate the need for a brace in some cases

The Graston technique uses six stainless steel convex or concave tools with rounded edges to scan over injured areas. The devices brush or rub against the scar tissues to promote trauma, increase blood flow, and stimulate healing. The treatment may relax contracted muscles to increase mobility and decrease pain in scoliosis patients.

Benefits for Scoliosis Patients:

  • Promotes healing by increasing blood flow
  • Relaxes contracted muscles
  • Increases mobility
  • Decreases pain
Graston Technique Ottawa
NeuroKinetic Therapy

NeuroKinetic Therapy is a type of massage that targets tense, contracted muscles. The chiropractor will conduct testing to identify the source of pain. They will massage the area to release pressure. They will test again to ensure they found the right connection.

NKT may relieve scoliosis symptoms by reducing tightness in the spine. It may also correct poor posture and spinal misalignments in people diagnosed with scoliosis. 

Benefits for Scoliosis Patients:

  • Relieves tightness in the spine
  • May correct poor posture
  • Addresses spinal misalignments
  • Reduces pain

Acupuncture is an ancient technique that uses needles to stimulate the nervous system. It releases chemicals into the brain, muscles, and spinal cord that may stimulate the body’s healing response and improve mental and physical well-being.

Limited studies have been conducted regarding the effects of acupuncture on scoliosis. However, one medical review showed it can reduce the Cobb angle and may also improve lung capacity. 

Benefits for Scoliosis Patients:

  • May reduce Cobb angle
  • Can improve lung capacity
  • Stimulates the body’s healing response
  • Improves overall mental and physical well-being
medical acupuncture ottawa

Our Treatment Methodology

Our scoliosis chiropractic treatment involves a customized approach as follows:

Initial Assessment and Diagnosis

During the first appointment, a chiropractor will assess your condition in terms of pain level, range of motion, and other factors. If necessary, we will provide a diagnosis.

Create a Customized Scoliosis Treatment Plan

Your doctor of chiropractic will create a customized treatment plan of regular chiropractic care that best addresses your medical needs. They will continue to reassess and update as needed.

Techniques and Therapies Used

We may utilize any of the therapies listed above, including chiropractic care, acupuncture, custom orthotics, spinal decompression, physiotherapy, shockwave therapy, NKT, and the Graston technique. We may combine therapies of alternative and traditional chiropractic techniques for optimal results.

Getting Started with Treatment
Book Your Downtown Ottawa Session Today!
Chiropractic Physiotherapy In Ottawa

Meet The

Practitioners credentials

At Kent Chiro-Med, our team of highly qualified practitioners brings years of specialized experience in treating scoliosis. Our approach is grounded in the latest research and best practices in scoliosis management.

Dr Maryam Hassanzadeh portrait Kent Chiro Med Wellness Clinic

Dr. Maryam Hassanzadeh

Chiropractor
a.ka Mama Bear

  • Over 15 years of experience in chiropractic care

  • Specialized training in scoliosis-specific chiropractic techniques

  • Clinical Director at Kent Chiro-Med Wellness Clinic

Dr Courtney Broadhurst portrait Kent Chiro Med Wellness Clinic

Dr. Courtney Broadhurst

Chiropractor
a.k.a Sporty Spice

  • Certified chiropractor with extensive experience in treating musculoskeletal conditions

  • Graduate of the Canadian Memorial Chiropractic College, magna cum laude

  • Additional qualifications in emergency first response, athletic taping, instrument assisted soft tissue mobilization and Contemporary Medical Acupuncture

  • Passionate about helping patients achieve their health and wellness goals

dr abed kent chiro med profile website 2024

Dr. Abed Hamidi

Chiropractor

  • Passionate about helping individuals return to their daily routines and re-engage in activities they love

  • Extensive knowledge and experience from his own journey as an athlete

  • Committed to supporting patients in achieving their personal health goals

What to Expect During Your First Visit

During your first visit, we will assess your condition and level of pain.
We will consult with you to come up with a plan that addresses your medical needs.

Contact Information and Clinic Hours

Our scoliosis Ottawa clinic is located on Gladstone Ave in the heart of downtown. Our hours are as follows:

  • Mon-Thurs: 9 AM – 6PM
  • Friday 9 AM – 3 PM
  • Saturday 8 AM – 3 PM
  • Sunday- closed

Join many others in healing

209 Google Reviews ★★★★
Tianna Gualtieri
Tianna Gualtieri
Read More
I am a 21 year old female with lower back, upper back and leg pain following an MVA. Dr. Maryam (Chiropractor) and Ghaith (Physiotherapist) are amazing! They help me manage my pain with weekly visits. On top of having scoliosis, they are the only people I trust to do my weekly adjustments. Walking into the clinic it is a very comforting and relaxed environment. No matter your age, book a visit. You will thank me later! Read on Google
Reem Hawa
Reem Hawa
Read More
my chiropractor, Dr. Maryam, is probably my favourite doctor i’ve ever had. She’s so hardworking and caring (her nickname is mama bear lol), she deserves the most. which is why i’m speaking up for her as her teenage patient with scoliosis. Read on Google
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Scoliosis Treatment Chiropractic FAQs

Yes, research shows that patients who use chiropractic care to treat scoliosis experience few or no side effects.

Some studies have revealed that chiropractic care can help improve the scoliosis curve, but more studies are needed. However, chiropractic care can help in relieving scoliosis-related pain and reducing further curvature.

Scoliosis treatment varies depending on the severity of the condition. Adolescents diagnosed with a slight spinal curvature may not require any treatment. The doctor may want to monitor the curve to ensure it’s not getting worse.

More severe cases may require brace-wearing or surgery.

Conclusion

Scoliosis treatment chiropractic can reduce pain and aid with mobility issues. Some evidence has shown it can even reduce spine curvature. More studies are needed to determine if this is true.

Med wellness clinic is the ideal choice for scoliosis chiropractic treatment. We offer various services, customized plans, and a caring and experienced staff that can help you with scoliosis. Search scoliosis chiropractors near me, scoliosis specialists near me, or jump on our website to make an appointment. We will provide the healing relief you require.

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References

[1] Fortner, M. O., Oakley, P. A., & Harrison, D. E. (2016). Treating ‘slouchy’ (hyperkyphosis) posture with chiropractic biophysics®: a case report utilizing a multimodal mirror image® rehabilitation program. Journal of Physical Therapy Science, 28(8), 2324-2328.

[2] Wynne, J. H. (2019). The Boston Brace and TriaC systems. Disability and Rehabilitation: Assistive Technology, 3(3), 130-135.

[3] Schreiber, S., Parent, E. C., Moez, E. K., Hedden, D. M., Hill, D., Moreau, M. J., … & Southon, S. C. (2013). The effect of Schroth exercises added to the standard of care on the quality of life and muscle endurance in adolescents with idiopathic scoliosis—an assessor and statistician blinded randomized controlled trial: “SOSORT 2015 Award Winner”. Scoliosis, 10(1), 24.

[4] Ajimsha, M. S., Al-Mudahka, N. R., & Al-Madzhar, J. A. (2015). Effectiveness of myofascial release: systematic review of randomized controlled trials. Journal of bodywork and movement therapies, 19(1), 102-112.

[5] Apfel, C. C., Cakmakkaya, O. S., Martin, W., Richmond, C., Macario, A., George, E., … & Pergolizzi, J. V. (2010). Restoration of disk height through non-surgical spinal decompression is associated with decreased discogenic low back pain: a retrospective cohort study. BMC musculoskeletal disorders, 11(1), 155.