Podcast Summary:
In this powerful episode of Scoliosis Treatment with Dr. Tony Nalda, we hear from Christy, an 18-year-old who was first diagnosed with scoliosis as a teenager in Venezuela. She shares her journey of discovering how her spinal curvature began affecting her breathing, posture, and quality of life — and how a specialized, non-surgical treatment plan brought her relief and renewed hope.

Dr. Nalda also provides expert commentary on a frequently asked question: Can scoliosis affect breathing and lung function? His answer may surprise you.

Christy’s Story: A Breath of Struggle

Diagnosed with scoliosis at age 16, Christy initially noticed a difference when she exerted herself physically — running or exercising made it harder to breathe.

As she continued to grow, the discomfort and pain worsened, particularly in her lungs. She later learned that one of her spinal curves was pressing on her lungs, restricting normal respiration.

Dr. Nalda’s Insight: The Curve vs. The Stiffness

Contrary to popular belief, it's not necessarily the size of a scoliosis curve that affects breathing — it’s the stiffness of the spine.

A small curve can significantly impair breathing if it creates enough rigidity. Conversely, a larger curve might not impact lung capacity at all in certain individuals.

“During breathing, your spine should flex. When scoliosis makes it stiffer, that’s when breathing becomes restricted,” explains Dr. Nalda.

Christy’s treatment led to impressive results:

Her worst curve reduced by 10° (from 35° to 25°), and all four of her curves improved significantly.

Her shoulders became visibly more balanced in just over a week of intensive therapy.

"I feel happy… I’m doing something better for my body," Christy said with a smile.

Dr. Nalda underscores the significance of this kind of progress:
“Going from 34 degrees to 24 degrees is a huge deal. That’s the same curve change that often separates no treatment from surgery in traditional care models.”

Scoliosis can restrict breathing — but not necessarily because of the curve’s size. Spinal stiffness plays a larger role.

Each scoliosis case is unique. What affects one person dramatically might not affect another.

Early, intensive, and specialized treatment can lead to measurable curve reduction and improved quality of life, even in just a short time.

Understanding scoliosis is the first step toward taking control of it.
📘 Download our free guide: How to Effectively Treat Scoliosis
This guide offers up-to-date, accurate information about non-surgical treatment options for scoliosis.

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Idiopathic scoliosis means “unknown cause” and makes up about 80% of all scoliosis cases.

It’s defined as a three-dimensional spinal curve—with both sideways bending and rotation—measuring ≥ 10° Cobb angle.

Four subtypes based on age:

Infantile, Juvenile, Adolescent (most common, ages 10–18), Adult Idiopathic

Idiopathic: No identifiable structural cause.

Other 20% include:

Neuromuscular (e.g. cerebral palsy)

Congenital (spinal malformations at birth)

Degenerative (due to wear and tear)

Traumatic (caused by injury)

🚨 TIP: A proper workup by a scoliosis specialist is essential—sometimes non-idiopathic causes are missed.

Highly progressive during growth spurts, sometimes swinging from mild to severe quickly.

Early curves around 10–25° can escalate to 50°+ if overlooked.

Diagnosis often begins with posture checks—shoulder/hip height, rib prominence, etc.

Many adults discover scoliosis via pain and X-rays, even without adolescent diagnosis.

Dr. Nalda offers a powerful analogy:

“Like rebuilding a building after an earthquake—even if we don't control the quake, we can still fix the structure.”

Though the cause may remain unclear, structural rehabilitation—via chiropractic care, bracing, exercises, and therapy—can realign the spine, reduce curve size, and manage progression.

The earlier the treatment, the better the results.

Smaller curves respond more effectively to non-surgical methods.

Even severe or painful idiopathic cases can often be managed successfully with a tailored, multimodal care plan.

Idiopathic scoliosis is common—but it's manageable, not mysterious.

Don't wait for symptoms—early assessment and intervention offer the best outcomes.

Treatment is available, structured, and backed by proven spinal care strategies.

📗 Free Guide — Want to explore scoliosis care options without surgery?
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Exploring the Genetic Link and Why It May Not Matter for Treatment

Receiving a scoliosis diagnosis often sparks a cascade of questions:
“How did I get this?”
“Did I inherit it?”
“What can I do about it?”

In this episode of the Scoliosis Treatment podcast, Dr. Tony Nalda breaks down one of the most common concerns—whether scoliosis is hereditary—and explains why discovering the “why” may not always impact how we treat the condition.

Patients frequently share that scoliosis “runs in the family.” But does that mean it’s genetic?

Dr. Nalda explains that scoliosis tends to cluster in families, but no single gene has ever been definitively linked to idiopathic scoliosis. Even identical twins—who share the exact same DNA—may have different outcomes, with one developing scoliosis and the other not. This strongly suggests that while there may be hereditary tendencies, scoliosis is not directly caused by genetics alone.

To understand where heredity may play a role, it's important to look at the four main types of scoliosis:

Idiopathic Scoliosis

Makes up 80% of cases

Cause: Unknown (idiopathic)

Most often seen in adolescents

Believed to be multifactorial, possibly involving environmental, developmental, and minor genetic influences

Neuromuscular Scoliosis

Associated with conditions like cerebral palsy, Marfan syndrome, or Ehlers-Danlos syndrome

More likely to have a genetic or systemic origin

Congenital Scoliosis

Present at birth due to malformed vertebrae (e.g., hemivertebra)

Truly genetic/developmental in nature

Degenerative or Traumatic Scoliosis

Caused by injury or wear and tear

Often appears in adulthood

Not hereditary—these result from physical changes over time

Dr. Nalda uses a powerful analogy:

“If an earthquake causes a building to collapse, we may study the cause—but the most urgent need is to rebuild the structure.”

Similarly, scoliosis—regardless of the cause—becomes a structural problem that must be corrected. Many cases are diagnosed long after the original cause (if any) occurred, and chasing the “why” doesn't usually change how the curve affects the spine today.

Yes.
Dr. Nalda emphasizes that effective scoliosis treatment doesn’t depend on knowing the exact cause. At the Scoliosis Reduction Center, idiopathic cases are treated with a multimodal approach, including:

Scoliosis-specific chiropractic care

Customized physical therapy and rehab

Scoliosis-specific exercises

Corrective bracing

These strategies focus on correcting the structural changes in the spine—not just the symptoms—and help stop curve progression over time.

While the question "Is scoliosis hereditary?" is understandable, the better question might be: What can I do now to manage it? Whether the root is genetic, environmental, or unknown, scoliosis can be treated effectively—especially when addressed early and proactively.

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Want more information on how to treat scoliosis without surgery?
👉 Get your copy of “How to Effectively Treat Scoliosis”

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From Gardening to Diagnosis to Life-Changing Results
As featured on the Scoliosis Treatment with Dr. Tony Nalda podcast

For Margie, a day in the garden turned into a wake-up call. What she assumed was a pulled muscle from overexertion turned out to be something far more serious. When her daughter noticed visible swelling on one side of her lower back, Margie sought answers—and what she found changed the course of her life.

Following an evaluation by a scoliosis specialist, Margie received a surprising diagnosis: a 45-degree lumbar scoliosis curve. Like many adult scoliosis cases, her condition had gone unnoticed until it began to visibly affect her posture and daily comfort. The initial recommendation was a soft brace meant to reduce pressure—but Margie knew she needed a more effective solution.

Margie’s search led her to the Scoliosis Reduction Center and the care of Dr. Tony Nalda. As Dr. Nalda explains, scoliosis in adults—particularly in its later stages—can progress rapidly, sometimes by 10 degrees or more per year. This swift progression can severely affect posture, mobility, and overall health if left unchecked.

During Margie’s evaluation, Dr. Nalda identified a major oversight: while her scoliosis had been diagnosed, an advanced 79-degree kyphosis (an excessive forward rounding of the upper back) had been completely ignored. Left untreated, this would have continued to compromise Margie’s posture and overall function.

Margie began an intensive, customized treatment plan that included spinal traction, corrective bracing, and home rehabilitation exercises. The results were dramatic. Her lumbar curve was reduced from 45 to 39 degrees, and her kyphosis improved from 79 to 67 degrees—restoring function, posture, and hope.

Unlike traditional soft braces that simply squeeze the spine, Margie’s new brace was designed to guide her spine into correction without discomfort. Combined with personalized home care, it offered her a new path forward.

“I can tell the big difference in the way I feel. He’s decreased my curve by a whole lot. My posture has improved. I’m just thrilled. And I plan on doing what he tells me to do to keep it up.” – Margie

Dr. Nalda emphasizes that every severe curve was once a small one—and that age is not a barrier to improvement. In fact, adult patients often show some of the best results because they’re highly committed to getting better.

While younger patients have the advantage of growth, adults can still see major benefits when scoliosis is addressed proactively and conservatively. Treating the spine early helps avoid the need for more invasive solutions, like spinal fusion surgery.

If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with scoliosis—or suspects they may have it—there are effective, non-surgical options available. Margie’s story is proof that it’s never too late to take control of your spine and reclaim your life.

Download our free guide: How to Effectively Treat Scoliosis Without Surgery
Gain access to the most accurate, up-to-date information and explore the conservative treatments that are transforming lives.

📍 Visit: ScoliosisReductionCenter.com
Explore our programs, success stories, and see how we help patients like Margie every day.

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Podcast Title: Scoliosis Treatment with Dr. Tony Nalda
Episode Title: What Can Scoliosis Affect?

Receiving a scoliosis diagnosis often raises immediate questions: How did this happen? What’s going to happen next? Can it be treated? In this episode, Dr. Tony Nalda provides a comprehensive look at what scoliosis really is—and what it can affect beyond just the spine. While most people associate scoliosis with cosmetic concerns or back pain, Dr. Nalda reveals how this condition can influence posture, mobility, balance, neurological function, digestion, and even respiratory capacity.

Dr. Nalda outlines the difference between scoliosis in children—where progression is driven by growth—and in adults, where spinal asymmetry combined with gravity can lead to increasing compression, pain, and stiffness. He explains how the spine’s natural curves are meant to distribute stress and protect the spinal cord, and how scoliosis disrupts this design, leading to biomechanical and neurological consequences.

Whether you or a loved one has been newly diagnosed or you’ve been managing scoliosis for years, this episode will give you a deeper understanding of how scoliosis affects the entire body—and why early, customized, and conservative treatment is so important.

✅ What scoliosis is: a sideways curvature of the spine with associated rotation

✅ How the spine’s natural curves are meant to support movement and protect the nervous system

✅ Why postural asymmetry (like uneven shoulders, hips, or ribs) can be an early sign of scoliosis

✅ Differences between childhood and adult scoliosis progression—and why pain is more common in adults

✅ How scoliosis can impact balance, coordination, and equilibrium

✅ The connection between scoliosis and neurological symptoms like numbness, tingling, or weakness

✅ Effects on organ function: including respiratory issues, restricted lung capacity, and digestive concerns

✅ The role of cerebrospinal fluid flow and how scoliosis can contribute to headaches and migraines

✅ Why “mild” scoliosis shouldn’t be ignored, and how every severe curve started small

“Every severe curve was once small. As curves worsen, they cause more problems. As they cause more problems, they affect more functions. And as they affect more functions, they affect your life more. That’s why we recommend proactive treatment—early and often.”

Dr. Nalda advocates for early and proactive scoliosis treatment—especially for young patients or adults newly diagnosed. At the Scoliosis Reduction Center, conservative care is personalized to the patient's curve type, severity, and health needs. The goal is to reduce the curve, preserve function, and avoid surgery through strategic, evidence-based treatment plans.

Download the Free Guide:
“How to Effectively Treat Scoliosis”
Gain access to up-to-date, non-surgical treatment insights and understand your options.
👉 scoliosisreductioncenter.com/free

Visit ScoliosisReductionCenter.com to explore conservative treatment options tailored to your diagnosis.

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Episode Title: Why 10 Degrees Is the Diagnostic Threshold for Scoliosis

Why is scoliosis officially diagnosed at 10 degrees? In this episode, Dr. Tony Nalda explores the origin of the 10-degree cutoff, what it means for patients, and why the numbers don’t always reflect the impact scoliosis can have on daily life.

✅ What Is Scoliosis?

A lateral curvature of the spine of 10 degrees or more, with spinal rotation

Must be measured via Cobb angle on a standing spinal X-ray

Three-dimensional deformity—not just a sideways curve

✅ Cobb Angle & Severity Categories:

Mild: 10–25 degrees

Moderate: 25–40 degrees

Severe: 40+ degrees

Very Severe (Dr. Nalda’s category): 80+ degrees

These classifications were originally designed by orthopedic surgeons for surgical decision-making, not necessarily for predicting symptoms or patient outcomes.

✅ Why 10 Degrees?

In 1977, Dr. William Kane proposed 10° as the cutoff to create diagnostic consistency

Prior to this, some doctors diagnosed scoliosis at 5°, 15°, or even 20°

The 10-degree benchmark became the accepted clinical standard—but not because it signified a dramatic physiological shift

✅ Why "Mild" Scoliosis Can Still Be Serious:

Even small curves (10–20 degrees) can cause pain, dysfunction, and postural changes

Many patients with 15–20 degree curves experience symptoms despite being labeled “mild”

Early misalignments are like car tires out of alignment—they wear things down over time

✅ The Problem With Chasing Numbers:

Curves less than 10° are still spinal misalignments

Scoliosis isn’t always visible until 20–25°, meaning millions go undiagnosed

Many people don’t realize they have scoliosis until adulthood, especially if pain is minimal in youth

✅ What Matters Most:

Not just the degree of curvature, but the impact on your health and function

Early detection and proactive, conservative treatment can prevent small curves from becoming severe

Look beyond the labels—what matters is how your spine is affecting your quality of life

Every severe scoliosis case started out as a smaller curve. The earlier you intervene—regardless of whether it's “mild” or not—the better your chances are to prevent long-term progression.

Download the Free Guide: How to Effectively Treat Scoliosis
👉 scoliosisreductioncenter.com/free

🌐 Website: scoliosisreductioncenter.com
🎧 Subscribe to the podcast
🔔 Hit the bell icon to get notified of new content

It’s not just about the number—it’s about the impact. Treat the cause, not just the curve.

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Episode Title: Bulging Discs in the Neck & Back: Causes, Symptoms, and Structural Treatment

Bulging or herniated discs are one of the most common spinal issues patients face—especially when scoliosis or misalignment is present. In this episode, Dr. Tony Nalda breaks down what causes disc bulging, why spinal structure plays such a critical role, and how to treat the root cause—not just the symptoms.

✅ What Are Spinal Discs?

Spinal discs sit between vertebrae and act as cushions and shock absorbers

Each disc has a soft inner core (gel) and tough outer layer (annulus)

They support spinal alignment, flexibility, and protect against wear and tear

✅ What Is a Bulging Disc?

A bulging disc occurs when the disc shifts or protrudes beyond its normal position

This can place pressure on nearby nerves, causing pain or neurological symptoms

Common in the cervical (neck) and lumbar (lower back) regions

✅ Key Causes of Disc Bulging:

Spinal misalignment – shifts vertebrae, distorting disc shape

Disc desiccation – loss of hydration makes discs more prone to bulging

Trauma – car accidents, falls, and sports injuries

Repetitive microtrauma – poor posture and prolonged sitting

✅ Symptoms of Bulging Discs:

Local pain (neck or back)

Muscle spasms or stiffness

Numbness, tingling, or weakness in arms or legs

Sciatica (pain radiating down the leg)

Difficulty walking or maintaining posture

In advanced cases, bladder or bowel issues

✅ Why Treating Alignment Matters:
Dr. Nalda compares a misaligned spine to an ice cream sandwich:

If you squeeze it unevenly, the "ice cream" (disc) bulges out.
Until you realign the spine, the disc cannot return to normal.

✅ Conservative, Structural Approach to Treatment:

Chiropractic adjustments to correct misalignment

Rehabilitative exercises and traction

Postural re-education and ergonomic advice

Stabilization techniques to prevent recurrence

✅ What NOT to Do:

Rely solely on pain management (injections, meds) without correcting the structure

Ignore early signs like stiffness, nerve tingling, or postural changes

Bulging discs aren't just a result of aging—they’re often a symptom of deeper spinal misalignments. Fixing alignment is the first step toward real, lasting relief. At the Scoliosis Reduction Center, patients receive a personalized, structural approach to not only relieve pain—but help prevent long-term degeneration.

Download the Free Guide: How to Effectively Treat Scoliosis
👉 scoliosisreductioncenter.com/free

🌐 Website: scoliosisreductioncenter.com
🎧 Subscribe to the podcast for more episodes
🔔 Hit the bell icon to get notified when new content drops

Your spine can heal—if you treat the cause, not just the symptoms.

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Episode Title: Understanding Thoracic Lordosis – What Happens When the Mid-Back Bends the Wrong Way?

Most people know the spine has curves—but not all spinal curves are good. In this episode of Scoliosis Treatment with Dr. Tony Nalda, we explore thoracic lordosis, an abnormal forward-bending of the mid-back. Dr. Nalda explains how this condition differs from normal spinal alignment, why it often goes hand-in-hand with scoliosis, and what you can do to restore proper spinal shape before symptoms progress.

✅ What Is Thoracic Lordosis?

Normally, the thoracic (mid-back) spine should curve backward—a shape called kyphosis

Thoracic lordosis occurs when the curve bends forward instead, disrupting spinal mechanics

✅ Why It Matters

Thoracic lordosis weakens the spine’s ability to handle stress

It can contribute to:

Progressive scoliosis

Neck curvature issues (cervical kyphosis)

Lumbar spine instability (spondylolisthesis)

Chronic back pain, poor posture, and mobility limitations

✅ What Causes It?

Postural habits

Congenital defects

Post-surgical changes (especially scoliosis surgery with rods)

Neuromuscular conditions

✅ Connection to Scoliosis

A flat or reversed mid-back curve is often seen in scoliosis cases

Patients with flatter thoracic spines are more likely to progress rapidly during growth

The rotational nature of scoliosis can flatten or invert normal curves, worsening spinal alignment

✅ How to Fix It

You can’t "watch and wait" on structural conditions

Treatment must target the cause and curve direction

At the Scoliosis Reduction Center, Dr. Nalda and his team use:

Customized in-office care

Targeted therapies to restore curve balance

Home rehab programs for long-term stability

Thoracic lordosis isn’t “just posture.” It’s a structural issue that can cascade into scoliosis, nerve issues, and even spinal instability. But with proper diagnosis and proactive care, the spine can be reshaped and protected from further damage.

📘 Free Guide: How to Effectively Treat Scoliosis
Grab your copy → scoliosisreductioncenter.com/free

🌐 Explore Conservative Treatment Options
Visit: scoliosisreductioncenter.com

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Your spine isn’t meant to be straight—but it is meant to be balanced. If your thoracic curve is bending the wrong way, it’s time to act—not wait.

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Episode Title: From Pain to Play – Scott’s Adult Scoliosis Recovery Story

What happens when scoliosis shows up later in life? In this inspiring episode of Scoliosis Treatment with Dr. Tony Nalda, we follow Scott’s journey—an active father who suddenly found himself sidelined by back pain, only to discover it was due to undiagnosed scoliosis. Through focused, non-surgical treatment at the Scoliosis Reduction Center, Scott not only regained function but dramatically reduced his curves—proving that with the right mindset and commitment, healing is possible at any age.

✅ Scoliosis Isn’t Just for Teens

Adult scoliosis can develop or worsen due to compression and gravity

Unlike kids, adults often experience pain even with smaller curves

✅ Why Maintenance Care Isn't Enough

General chiropractic may ease discomfort but doesn’t correct the curve

Structural change requires scoliosis-specific, multi-dimensional treatment

✅ Scott’s Transformation

Started with four curves ranging from 15–30°

Reduced all four curves to under 10° after just two treatment intensives

Regained abilities like lifting his kids, shooting hoops, and playing soccer again

✅ The Power of Commitment

The key to success? Consistency and dedication

Age isn't the barrier—effort and follow-through are

Dr. Nalda emphasizes that adult patients can see incredible results when they follow the plan

Scoliosis doesn’t have to define your limits. With personalized care, the right guidance, and commitment, even adult scoliosis can be improved—without surgery.

📘 Free Guide: How to Effectively Treat Scoliosis
Download now → scoliosisreductioncenter.com/free

🌐 Learn More About Non-Surgical Treatment Options
Visit scoliosisreductioncenter.com

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Scott’s story is a reminder that scoliosis can be treated—and hope is real. Whether you’re a parent of a child recently diagnosed, or an adult finally uncovering the cause of chronic pain, you’re not alone—and it’s never too late to start healing.

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Episode Title: Do Spine Stretches Work for Scoliosis?

Stretching can feel like a natural response to tightness and discomfort—but for scoliosis patients, not all stretches are created equal. In this episode of Scoliosis Treatment with Dr. Tony Nalda, we dive into the question: Do spinal stretches actually help scoliosis? You'll learn the difference between improving flexibility and achieving structural correction, why stretching the wrong way can do more harm than good, and how to safely support your spine through scoliosis-specific movement strategies.

✅ Stretching and Scoliosis: What's the Real Benefit?

Stretching may help reduce pain and improve flexibility

But stretching alone won't reduce scoliosis curves, because scoliosis is a structural condition

✅ Understanding Spinal Rigidity in Scoliosis

As the spine curves, asymmetrical muscle tension develops

Tight muscles often serve a protective role, stabilizing the spine against progression

Loosening the wrong muscles may actually accelerate curve progression

✅ Best vs. Worst Stretches for Scoliosis Patients
✔️ Best:

Stretches customized to your specific curve pattern

Prescribed by scoliosis-trained professionals

Combined with strengthening exercises to balance asymmetries

❌ Worst:

Generalized or symmetrical stretches

Compressive movements

Stretches that pull on the curve in the wrong direction

✅ Why Generic Stretches Can Be Harmful

Many scoliosis curves require asymmetrical treatment

Stretching without understanding your curve type can worsen symptoms or deformity

True improvement often comes from a multimodal program including:

Stretching

Therapy

Rehab

Corrective bracing

✅ What Should You Do Instead?

Seek out a scoliosis specialist who can guide you through a safe, effective program

Don’t aim for “symmetry” at all costs—aim for balance based on your unique curve

Use stretches as a supportive tool, not a standalone solution

Stretching may relieve discomfort, but only scoliosis-specific exercises—prescribed by trained professionals—can truly support spinal health and structural change. Avoid generic programs and focus on personalized care that addresses your spine’s three-dimensional complexity.

📘 Free Guide: How to Effectively Treat Scoliosis
Download it here → scoliosisreductioncenter.com/free

🌐 Explore Treatment Options:
Visit scoliosisreductioncenter.com to learn about non-surgical solutions tailored to your curve type

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Leave a comment and let us know what you’d like Dr. Nalda to cover next

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