Scoliosis Treatment with Dr. Tony Nalda

By Dr. Tony Nalda

Scoliosis can be a confusing diagnosis. Dr. Tony Nalda helps to answer your questions and provide insights on your treatment options available, so that you don't have to just watch and wait or resort ... more

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How many episodes does Scoliosis Treatment with Dr. Tony Nalda have?

The podcast currently has 139 episodes available.

Scoliosis Treatment with Dr. Tony Nalda episodes:

January 28, 2025 Episode 138: Does Scoliosis Cause Shoulder Pain?
Episode 138: Does Scoliosis Cause Shoulder Pain?
Welcome to "Scoliosis Treatment with Dr. Tony Nalda," where we dive deep into understanding scoliosis and its broader impacts on health. In today’s episode, we focus on a common concern among scoliosis patients: shoulder pain.
Understanding Scoliosis Scoliosis, a three-dimensional spinal deformity characterized by sideways curvature and rotation, affects body symmetry by introducing uneven forces across the body. This condition can manifest in different regions of the spine—cervical, thoracic, or lumbar—each influencing the body uniquely due to the spine's intricate connection with gravitational forces.
Cobb Angle and Scoliosis Diagnosis Diagnosis hinges on the Cobb angle, a measurement that quantifies the degree of spinal curvature. A curvature of 10 degrees or more, coupled with rotation, confirms scoliosis. However, the severity of symptoms doesn't always correlate directly with the curve's size; factors such as patient age, cause of scoliosis (idiopathic, traumatic, or neuromuscular), and specific curve location play crucial roles in the clinical presentation.
Impact on the Shoulders One of the earliest signs of scoliosis, particularly in adolescents, is uneven shoulders. This misalignment can lead to structural deformities over time, such as rib and shoulder blade asymmetry, affecting the biomechanics and potentially causing pain and discomfort. These changes also influence muscle function and nerve tissue, further exacerbating discomfort in the shoulders.
Proactive Treatment Approaches Addressing shoulder pain effectively requires a proactive approach to scoliosis treatment. Dr. Nalda emphasizes the importance of managing the curve’s progression to prevent future complications. Strategies include structural treatments that focus on reducing the curvature and improving posture, which can alleviate the secondary symptoms like shoulder pain.
Supportive Resources For those looking to understand scoliosis beyond symptoms, the Scoliosis Reduction Center offers a comprehensive guide, “How to Effectively Treat Scoliosis,” available for free. This resource provides up-to-date information and advocates for non-surgical treatment options.
Closing Thoughts As Dr. Nalda wraps up the discussion, he encourages listeners to stay informed and proactive in managing scoliosis. Engaging with treatment early and understanding the condition's complexity are vital steps towards improving quality of life and minimizing pain.
For more insights and updates, subscribe to our podcast, and don’t forget to check out our website at scoliosisreductioncenter.com for more resources.
Thank you for tuning into "Scoliosis Treatment with Dr. Tony Nalda." Stay informed and hopeful as we navigate the complexities of scoliosis together.
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11min
January 21, 2025Episode 137: Yoga for Scoliosis, Can It Really Make A Difference?
Yoga for Scoliosis: Benefits and Limitations
In today's episode of the podcast, we delve into the potential of yoga as a treatment for scoliosis, a condition characterized by an unnatural sideways curvature of the spine. While yoga offers numerous benefits for overall health and well-being, its efficacy in treating scoliosis presents a complex challenge due to the structural nature of the condition.
Understanding Scoliosis
Definition and Progression: Scoliosis involves a sideways curvature of the spine that often also includes a rotational component. The condition is progressive, meaning it can worsen over time without proper management.
Types and Severity: Scoliosis can vary widely in severity, from mild to very severe, and may be categorized into different types based on its cause, including idiopathic, neuromuscular, congenital, and degenerative forms.
Yoga's Role in Managing Scoliosis
General Benefits: Yoga can improve spinal strength, enhance posture, and increase flexibility. These benefits contribute to better overall spinal health, which can be particularly beneficial for individuals with mild forms of scoliosis.
Limitations in Structural Correction: Despite its advantages, yoga alone cannot induce significant structural changes in most scoliosis cases. It is not sufficient to correct the curvature in moderate to severe cases.
Challenges Specific to Scoliosis
Asymmetrical Nature: Scoliosis causes asymmetrical spinal alignment, which complicates participation in yoga, a practice typically designed for symmetrical body movement.
Risk of Exacerbation: Certain yoga poses, especially those involving back arching and thoracic spine flattening, can potentially worsen scoliosis symptoms or the curvature itself, as they emphasize movements that contradict the needs of a scoliotic spine.
Integrating Yoga into a Scoliosis Treatment Plan
Customized Approach: For those with scoliosis, integrating yoga into their treatment plan should be done with caution and customization. Specific poses may need to be modified or avoided altogether to ensure they do not exacerbate the curvature.
Professional Guidance Necessary: Individuals with scoliosis should consult with a scoliosis specialist or a physical therapist who can tailor a yoga routine that considers their specific spinal curvature and physical limitations.
Conclusion
While yoga offers excellent benefits for flexibility, posture, and overall wellness, it is not a standalone treatment for scoliosis due to its inability to structurally alter significant spinal curvatures. However, when used appropriately and under professional guidance, it can serve as a supportive component of a broader, multi-modal treatment strategy aimed at managing symptoms and improving quality of life.
For anyone considering yoga as part of their scoliosis management plan, it’s crucial to consult with healthcare professionals to create a balanced and safe approach tailored to their specific condition. Join us next time for more insights into managing scoliosis and enhancing overall spinal health.
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8min
January 14, 2025Episode 136: Scoliosis Degrees of Curvature
Understanding Scoliosis: Degrees of Curvature and Treatment Implications
In this episode, we explore the implications of scoliosis curvature on treatment options, ranging from mild to very severe cases. Dr. Tony Nalda delves into the specifics of scoliosis diagnosis, its progression, and how these factors influence the course of treatment.
Defining Scoliosis and Its Severity
Diagnosis: Scoliosis is characterized by a sideways curvature of the spine of at least 10 degrees, accompanied by rotation.
Classification by Severity:
Mild Scoliosis: 10 to 25 degrees
Moderate Scoliosis: 25 to 40 degrees
Severe Scoliosis: Over 40 degrees
Very Severe Scoliosis: Over 80 degrees
Treatment Strategies by Severity
Mild Scoliosis:
Traditional Treatment: Often involves observation only, with no active intervention.
Functional Approach: May include chiropractic care, specialized exercises, and possibly corrective bracing to prevent progression.
Moderate Scoliosis:
Traditional Treatment: Options vary; some doctors recommend bracing (e.g., Boston brace), which aims to slow progression rather than reduce curvature.
Functional Approach: Emphasizes reducing the curve through intensive chiropractic care, in-office rehabilitation, home therapy, and corrective bracing.
Severe Scoliosis:
Traditional Treatment: Primarily surgical, involving spinal fusion to stop curve progression and possibly reduce curvature.
Functional Approach: Focuses on bringing the curvature below the surgical threshold using non-invasive methods like advanced bracing and comprehensive rehabilitation programs.
Very Severe Scoliosis:
Traditional Treatment: Almost exclusively surgical, with spinal fusion being the primary option.
Functional Approach: For patients refusing surgery for personal or religious reasons, treatment aims to reduce curvature as much as possible through intensive, ongoing care.
Key Insights
Growth and Progression: Growth spurts are a significant factor in scoliosis progression. Early and proactive treatment is crucial, especially in young patients, to manage and potentially reduce curvature before it becomes severe.
Customization of Care: Scoliosis requires a personalized treatment approach due to the unique nature of each case. The type of scoliosis, its location, and severity all dictate the specific interventions required.
Long-term Management: For higher degrees of curvature, even if non-surgical methods do not completely resolve the condition, they can improve quality of life and spinal function, potentially avoiding or delaying the need for surgery.
Conclusion
Scoliosis treatment varies significantly based on the curvature's degree and the patient's growth phase. Dr. Nalda advocates for early intervention and a functional approach over traditional methods that often wait until progression necessitates invasive procedures like surgery. Each scoliosis case demands a tailored treatment plan, with a strong preference for reducing curvature non-invasively to avoid the complications associated with surgical interventions.
For more insights into managing scoliosis and other related topics, subscribe to our channel and click the bell icon for updates.
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12min
January 02, 2025Episode 135: Moderate Scoliosis Treatment Without Surgery: Michael's Story
Michael's Journey: From Misdiagnosis to Effective Scoliosis Management
In today’s podcast episode, we explore the unique and challenging journey of Michael, a young boy whose scoliosis story exemplifies the difficulties and complexities associated with diagnosing and effectively managing this condition.
Early Signs and Misdiagnosis
Initial Concerns: Michael’s journey began with knee pain and difficulty walking, rather than the typical signs of scoliosis. His discomfort was so severe that even enjoyable activities like visiting Disney World were not appealing to him.
First Diagnosis: Initially, orthopedic specialists attributed Michael’s symptoms to his knees and suggested physical therapy, which proved ineffective.
The Progression of Scoliosis
Rapid Curve Progression: Over nine months, Michael’s scoliosis rapidly progressed from a mild 8-degree curvature to nearly 30 degrees. This unexpected worsening highlighted the unpredictable nature of scoliosis progression, particularly in growing children.
Treatment Challenges and Alternatives
Inadequate Solutions: Initially offered a Providence brace, Michael's family was skeptical due to mixed success rates. The looming suggestion of surgery as the next step prompted them to seek alternative treatments.
Growth and Progression Risk: Michael’s case underscores the inherent risk of progression in adolescent scoliosis, driven by growth spurts that cannot be halted.
Turning Point and Alternative Approach
Discovering Dr. Tony: At a critical juncture, a family friend introduced Michael’s family to Dr. Tony and his non-surgical approach to scoliosis management.
Comprehensive Treatment: Dr. Tony’s method involved a rigorous but manageable routine of specific exercises tailored to Michael’s unique curvature, alongside a gradual reduction in brace wear—from 23 hours initially down to 8 hours.
Impact of Targeted Non-Surgical Treatment
Significant Improvement: Through consistent participation in a specialized exercise program and adherence to the bracing protocol, Michael experienced substantial improvements. His curvature decreased to under 10 degrees, effectively bringing him out of the scoliosis threshold.
Holistic Care: Beyond just addressing the spinal curvature, Dr. Tony’s treatment also improved Michael’s overall musculoskeletal health, including his knees and gait.
Broader Implications
Neuromuscular Considerations: Michael’s broader symptoms suggested a possible neuromuscular component to his scoliosis, which was also addressed through the comprehensive care plan, underscoring the importance of a holistic approach to treatment.
Conclusion
Michael’s story is not just one of overcoming a physical condition but also highlights the critical importance of accurate diagnosis, the potential pitfalls of conventional treatment paths, and the effectiveness of personalized, non-invasive management strategies. His journey from near surgical intervention to a significantly improved quality of life offers hope and valuable insights for other families navigating similar challenges.
For more inspiring stories and expert advice on managing scoliosis, subscribe to our podcast and visit the Scoliosis Reduction Center's website. If you're looking for resources or need guidance on scoliosis treatment options, don't hesitate to reach out and explore what's possible beyond traditional surgical approaches.
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9min
December 31, 2024Episode 134: What Are The Symptoms of Scoliosis?
Understanding Scoliosis: Symptoms, Impacts, and Management
In today's insightful episode of our podcast, Dr. Tony Nalda discusses the complexities of scoliosis, focusing on its symptoms, progression, and the implications of various treatment approaches. This episode aims to demystify scoliosis for patients and their families, offering a comprehensive look at how this condition affects individuals differently depending on numerous factors.
What is Scoliosis?
Definition and Diagnosis: Scoliosis is characterized by an unnatural sideways curvature of the spine, accompanied by rotation. To be classified as scoliosis, the curvature must be 10 degrees or greater, as measured by the Cobb angle analysis.
Types of Scoliosis
Idiopathic Scoliosis: Making up about 80% of cases, idiopathic scoliosis has no single known cause and is considered multifactorial.
Neuromuscular Scoliosis: Associated with conditions affecting muscles and nerves.
Congenital Scoliosis: Caused by vertebral anomalies present at birth.
Degenerative Scoliosis: Results from age-related spinal degeneration.
Traumatic Scoliosis: Caused by traumatic injuries leading to immediate curvature.
Symptoms Across Life Stages
Adolescent Scoliosis: Most diagnoses occur between ages 10 and 18. Surprisingly, during these years, even significant curvatures often do not cause pain.
Adult Scoliosis: In contrast, adults are more likely to experience pain as scoliosis progresses due to spinal compression from gravity.
Common Symptoms and Signs
Pain: Not directly correlated with the curvature size but rather with age and the rate of progression in adulthood.
Postural Changes: The most noticeable signs of scoliosis include uneven shoulders, misaligned hips, and rib protrusion, which can affect how clothing fits and overall body alignment.
Functional Impairments: In severe cases, scoliosis can lead to issues with lung function and digestion, although these effects vary greatly.
Treatment Considerations
Surgical Approaches: While surgery, specifically spinal fusion, can halt the progression and reduce curvature, it comes with the cost of spinal immobility and potential long-term complications.
Conservative Management: Dr. Nalda advocates for non-surgical options that focus on reducing curvature while maintaining spine flexibility. These include customized exercises, bracing, and chiropractic care, aimed at preventing further curve progression and managing symptoms without the risks associated with surgery.
Proactive Treatment and Early Intervention
The Value of Early Detection: Identifying scoliosis early in its progression offers the best chance for effective management, especially in children and adolescents. Early intervention can prevent the curve from worsening and reduce the likelihood of needing invasive procedures later in life.
Patient-Centered Care: Each scoliosis case is unique; thus, treatment plans should be tailored to individual needs, taking into account the type of scoliosis, its severity, and the patient's overall health and lifestyle.
Conclusion
This episode underscores the importance of understanding scoliosis beyond the curvature of the spine, highlighting how symptoms can vary and the critical role of tailored treatments. For anyone dealing with scoliosis or responsible for someone who is, proactive management and a thorough evaluation of treatment options are key to improving quality of life and managing this complex spinal condition effectively.
For more insights and to stay informed about the latest developments in scoliosis treatment, subscribe to our podcast and explore our resources available at the Scoliosis Reduction Center. Join us in our next episode as we continue to provide valuable information and support for the scoliosis community.
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13min
December 24, 2024Episode 133: What Are The Costs of Scoliosis Surgery?
Understanding the Real Costs of Scoliosis Surgery
In today’s episode of the "Scoliosis Treatment with Dr. Tony Nalda" podcast, we delve deep into the realm of scoliosis surgery, discussing not only the surgical process but also its physical and long-term implications. Our goal is to provide clarity on what surgery entails and explore alternative, non-invasive treatments that can potentially offer better outcomes for those diagnosed with severe scoliosis.
The Reality of Scoliosis Surgery
Indications for Surgery: Surgery is typically recommended for severe scoliosis, which is defined by a curvature of 40 to 45 degrees or more. The primary objective of scoliosis surgery, specifically spinal fusion, is to halt the progression of the curve.
Surgical Procedures and Outcomes: Modern surgical techniques can sometimes reduce the curvature significantly — by 20% to 50%. However, the extent of curve reduction can vary, and there are no guarantees regarding the exact outcome.
The Physical Costs of Surgery
Spinal Fusion Explained: The procedure involves the insertion of rods and screws to stabilize the spine, accompanied by bone grafts to fuse segments of the spine together. This fusion eliminates the natural flexibility of the spine, essentially making it immobile.
Complications and Lifetime Impact: While the spine may become straighter, the loss of mobility and the permanent presence of hardware introduce a range of potential complications. These include chronic pain, increased vulnerability to injuries, and the possible need for additional surgeries.
Exploring Non-Surgical Alternatives
Potential for Non-Invasive Reduction: Dr. Nalda proposes considering alternative methods that could reduce scoliosis without the need for invasive surgery. These methods focus on maintaining the spine’s natural mobility while addressing the curvature.
Evaluating Treatment Options: It is crucial for patients to get a comprehensive evaluation to determine if their scoliosis can be managed or even improved through less invasive techniques. This could involve specialized physical therapy, corrective bracing, or other modalities aimed at reducing the curvature without compromising the spine’s function.
Making Informed Decisions
Seeking Second Opinions: Before opting for surgery, patients are encouraged to seek second opinions, particularly from specialists who focus on conservative management of scoliosis. This can provide a broader perspective on available treatment options that might be more beneficial in the long run.
Understanding Long-Term Implications: Choosing the right treatment path for scoliosis should involve considering the long-term health of the spine and overall quality of life. Surgical decisions, particularly in young patients, can have lifelong implications.
Conclusion
Scoliosis surgery is a significant, life-altering decision that comes with both benefits and substantial risks. By exploring and understanding all available treatment options, including less invasive alternatives, individuals with scoliosis can make more informed choices about their care. Dr. Nalda is committed to providing insights and support to those facing these challenging decisions, offering hope and potential solutions outside of traditional surgical routes.
For more detailed information on non-surgical scoliosis treatments and to stay updated with the latest in scoliosis care, subscribe to our podcast and visit the Scoliosis Reduction Center's website. If you’re looking for additional resources, download our free guide, "How to Effectively Treat Scoliosis," available on our website.
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5min
December 17, 2024Episode 132: Scoliosis Surgery Recovery Timeframes & Surgery Alternatives
Navigating Scoliosis Surgery and Conservative Alternatives
In this episode of our podcast, we delve into the complex decisions surrounding scoliosis treatment, particularly focusing on spinal fusion surgery and its alternatives. Dr. Tony Nalda discusses what patients can expect from surgery, its long-term implications, and how conservative approaches might offer functional benefits without invasive procedures.
Understanding Spinal Fusion for Scoliosis
Procedure Overview: Spinal fusion, a common surgical procedure for scoliosis, involves fusing the most tilted vertebrae at the apex of the curvature into one solid bone. This is typically done using rods and screws to stabilize the spine during the fusion process.
Primary Goal: The main aim of spinal fusion is to prevent the worsening of scoliosis. While modern techniques can reduce curvature during the procedure, the primary intent is stabilization, not correction of the underlying cause of scoliosis.
Long-Term Implications of Spinal Fusion
Spinal Functionality: Post-surgery, patients often experience a significant loss of spinal flexibility and range of motion due to the fused sections of the spine no longer moving. This can lead to a decreased ability to absorb and adapt to physical stresses.
Health and Recovery Variables: Recovery rates and success can vary based on age, overall health, curve severity, and the presence of complicating factors like neuromuscular conditions. Younger patients generally recover faster and more effectively than older adults.
Risks and Complications: Fused spines are vulnerable to injuries, especially from impacts that can disrupt the surgical hardware. Long-term effects of the hardware, including potential hardware failure years after surgery, remain a significant concern.
Conservative Treatment Approaches
Non-Surgical Options: Dr. Nalda advocates for proactive, conservative treatments that aim to manage and potentially reduce scoliosis without surgery. These treatments focus on functional improvement and maintaining spinal mobility.
Components of Conservative Care:
Therapies and Rehabilitation: Utilizing specialized exercises and therapies to enhance spinal alignment and function.
Bracing: Employing corrective bracing techniques that aim to actively reduce curvature rather than just preventing worsening.
Chiropractic Care: Integrating chiropractic adjustments to support spinal health and correct misalignments.
Customized Treatment Plans: Conservative treatments are highly tailored, considering the patient's specific condition, curve severity, and lifestyle. They often include home exercises and in-office treatments to maximize effectiveness.
Choosing Between Surgery and Conservative Care
Treatment Goals and Preferences: The choice between surgical and conservative treatment should align with the patient's long-term health goals, lifestyle preferences, and tolerance for invasive procedures.
Evaluating Providers: When selecting a treatment provider, patients should consider specialists' focus—whether they primarily manage scoliosis or treat it as part of a broader practice. Specialists who prioritize scoliosis often provide more targeted and effective treatments.
Seeking Outcomes: Patients are encouraged to ask potential providers for case studies or results similar to their condition to gauge the effectiveness of proposed treatment plans.
Conclusion
For individuals facing scoliosis treatment decisions, understanding the full scope of surgical and non-surgical options is crucial. While spinal fusion offers a traditional path towards stabilizing the spine, conservative approaches provide a functional alternative that can preserve mobility and reduce curvature without invasive procedures. Patients should carefully consider their options, seek multiple opinions, and choose a path that best suits their health objectives and lifestyle.
For more insights into scoliosis treatment and to explore other topics related to spinal health, subscribe to our podcast and stay updated with the latest information and expert advice.
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14min
December 10, 2024Episode 131: Can Scoliosis Cause Neck Pain?
Can Scoliosis Cause Neck Pain? Understanding the Spinal Connection
In this informative episode of our podcast, we explore a common concern among individuals with scoliosis: whether this condition can lead to neck pain and other related symptoms. Dr. Tony Nalda delves into how scoliosis, a complex spinal condition characterized by a sideways curvature of the spine, can affect not only the lumbar or thoracic regions but also extend its influence to the cervical spine.
Scoliosis and Its Effects on the Spine
Definition and Diagnosis: Scoliosis is identified by a curvature of the spine that measures 10 degrees or greater, often accompanied by a rotational component. This condition doesn't just distort the spine's normal alignment but also impacts the surrounding muscles, nerves, and ligaments.
Three-Dimensional Impact: While commonly perceived as a condition affecting only the thoracic or lumbar spine, scoliosis can indeed influence the cervical spine. The condition's three-dimensional nature means it can cause changes in both the frontal and side views of the spine, leading to a variety of physical symptoms.
How Scoliosis Can Lead to Neck Pain
Cervical Scoliosis: Direct curvature within the cervical spine can lead to stiffness, soreness, and reduced range of motion, potentially causing pain that radiates to the shoulders and arms.
Compensatory Changes: Even when the primary scoliotic curves are located in the thoracic or lumbar regions, compensatory changes can occur in the cervical spine. These changes may lead to abnormal postures such as forward head posture, which strains the neck muscles and ligaments.
Loss of Normal Curvature: Scoliosis can lead to the loss of the cervical spine's normal lordotic curve, known as "military neck" or cervical kyphosis. This straightening of the neck disrupts the spine's natural ability to balance and absorb shocks, contributing to increased strain and pain.
Secondary Effects and Symptoms
Neurological Issues: As the spinal cord and nerve roots become affected by the altered spinal alignment, individuals may experience numbness, tingling, or radiating pain in the arms and fingers.
Headaches: Changes in cervical alignment can affect the flow of cerebrospinal fluid and blood to the brain, potentially leading to tension headaches or migraines.
Treatment Focus: Symptom Management vs. Addressing Root Causes
Symptomatic Relief: Many patients seek treatment for the secondary symptoms of scoliosis, such as neck pain or headaches. Traditional treatments may include pain management through medications or injections, which can provide temporary relief but do not address the underlying spinal deformities.
Proactive and Corrective Approaches: Effective management of scoliosis involves addressing the root causes—namely, the spinal misalignments and curvature. By focusing on correcting these issues through specialized exercises, bracing, or other non-invasive methods, it is possible to achieve more sustainable results and prevent further progression of the condition.
Conclusion
Understanding the comprehensive impact of scoliosis, especially its potential to cause neck pain and other related issues, is crucial for effective treatment. Patients are encouraged to seek care from specialists who focus not just on symptom relief but on proactive, corrective measures to address the spinal deformities inherent to scoliosis. This approach can help mitigate the long-term effects of the condition, improving quality of life and reducing the likelihood of future complications.
For more insights into managing scoliosis and related conditions, subscribe to our podcast and join the conversation on how best to handle this complex spinal condition.

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9min
December 03, 2024Episode 130: What Kind of Doctor Treats Scoliosis? [ANSWERED]
Choosing the Right Doctor for Scoliosis Treatment
In this episode of our scoliosis-focused podcast, we delve into a crucial aspect of scoliosis management: selecting the appropriate healthcare provider. Dr. Tony Nalda discusses the differences between various types of doctors who treat scoliosis and the importance of finding a specialist who aligns with your treatment goals.
Understanding the Types of Scoliosis Care Providers
Generalists vs. Specialists: Many patients are initially diagnosed by generalists who do not specialize in scoliosis. These patients are often referred to specialists who focus primarily on scoliosis and its comprehensive management.
Treatment Focus: It is vital to determine whether a doctor treats scoliosis as a primary focus or just as part of a broader practice. Specialists who concentrate solely on scoliosis are likely to provide more targeted and effective treatments.
Approaches to Scoliosis Treatment
Traditional Treatment: This approach often involves a "watch and wait" strategy to see if the curvature worsens, typically using pain management, bracing, or surgery. Surgical treatments might include spinal fusion, which uses hardware to correct the curve.
Conservative Treatment: Focused on avoiding surgery, this method uses therapies, exercises, and corrective bracing to manage and potentially reduce scoliosis. It aims to improve the function of the spine and alleviate the effects of scoliosis without invasive procedures.
Factors Influencing Treatment Decisions
Desired Outcomes: Your treatment goals significantly influence the type of doctor you should see. If avoiding surgery is a priority, a conservative approach managed by a chiropractor or a non-surgical scoliosis specialist might be preferable.
Expertise and Certification: Seek out providers who have extensive training and certification in scoliosis-specific treatment protocols. Providers might be certified in methodologies like CLEAR, SIAS, or use specific tools like the SCOLI Brace.
The Role of Comprehensive Care in Scoliosis Treatment
Multi-disciplinary Approaches: The best outcomes often result from a combination of treatments tailored to the patient’s specific needs. This can include a mix of manual therapy, specialized exercises, and bracing.
Certifications and Skills: A well-rounded scoliosis doctor will have multiple certifications and a deep understanding of various conservative treatment methods. This multi-modal approach allows them to customize treatment plans effectively.
Finding the Right Doctor
Research and Referrals: Look for a doctor whose practice is dedicated to scoliosis care. Check their credentials, read patient reviews, and consider their treatment philosophy.
Consultations and Outcomes: Don’t hesitate to ask for examples of the doctor’s results with cases similar to yours. Successful treatment centers should be able to provide evidence of their efficacy, such as before-and-after X-rays and patient testimonials.
Conclusion
Selecting the right doctor for scoliosis treatment is a decision that can significantly affect your health outcomes. Whether you opt for traditional or conservative treatment, ensure that your provider is not only skilled in general spinal care but is also specifically trained in managing scoliosis. By choosing a specialist who aligns with your health goals and offers a comprehensive treatment approach, you can achieve the best possible management of your condition.
For more insights on navigating scoliosis treatment options and choosing the best care path, subscribe to our podcast and stay informed about the latest in scoliosis care and management.
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11min
November 26, 2024Episode 129: Scoliosis Exercises: Which Exercises are Bad for Scoliosis?
Scoliosis and Exercise: What Works and What Doesn’t
In today’s episode of our scoliosis-focused podcast, Dr. Tony Nalda addresses a common concern among patients with scoliosis: identifying which exercises are beneficial and which may potentially exacerbate their condition. Dr. Nalda brings his expertise to clarify misconceptions and provide guidance on physical activities for individuals diagnosed with scoliosis.
Understanding Scoliosis and Exercise
Scoliosis involves an abnormal curvature of the spine, viewed from the front, often accompanied by a rotational component. This deformity can affect the natural curves of the spine seen from the side, known as lordosis and kyphosis, which are essential for strength and flexibility. The disruption of these curves can impact how effectively the spine handles daily stresses and gravitational forces.
The Role of Exercise in Managing Scoliosis
General Fitness: Regular exercise contributes to overall health, which can enhance responsiveness to scoliosis treatments. A strong, fit body is more capable of supporting the spine and managing symptoms.
Scoliosis-Specific Exercises (SSEs): These are tailored exercises designed by professionals who understand the unique dynamics of scoliosis. SSEs aim to improve flexibility, especially in directions that counteract the spinal curvature, and strengthen the core and spinal muscles to support and potentially correct spinal alignment.
Effective Exercises for Scoliosis
Non-Compressive Exercises: Activities that do not exert excessive pressure on the spine, such as walking and cycling, are generally beneficial.
Swimming and Water Therapy: These can be particularly good for scoliosis due to the buoyancy of water, which reduces stress on the spine.
Yoga and Pilates: While not curative, these practices can enhance flexibility and strengthen the core, aiding in overall posture and comfort.
Exercises to Avoid with Scoliosis
Certain activities can increase the curvature of the spine or exacerbate the rotational component, particularly those that are asymmetrical or involve repetitive motion on one side of the body.
High-Impact Sports: Activities like gymnastics, horseback riding, and contact sports can cause jarring impacts to the spine, potentially worsening scoliosis.
Asymmetrical Sports: Sports such as tennis, golf, and bowling can increase the asymmetrical loading of the spine, promoting an increase in curvature.
Hyperextension Activities: Activities that require excessive arching of the back, such as certain dance forms and gymnastics, can flatten the thoracic spine and exacerbate scoliosis.
The Reality of Scoliosis Management
Dr. Nalda emphasizes that while scoliosis cannot be cured or completely corrected (even if the curvature is reduced to zero), it is a manageable condition. The management approach focuses on maintaining the smallest possible curvature to minimize complications.
Early Intervention: The sooner treatment begins, the easier it is to manage the curvature.
Combination of Therapies: The most effective treatment plans combine general physical fitness, scoliosis-specific exercises, and other medical or therapeutic interventions tailored to the individual’s needs.
Conclusion
For individuals with scoliosis, understanding which exercises are safe and effective is crucial for managing the condition and enhancing quality of life. Dr. Nalda’s insights provide valuable guidelines for navigating the complexities of exercise with scoliosis, highlighting the importance of a personalized approach to treatment and the potential benefits of targeted physical activity.
To explore more about scoliosis management and other related topics, subscribe to our podcast and stay updated with expert advice tailored to those dealing with this spinal condition.
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10min

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The podcast currently has 139 episodes available.

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