Dr. Jeannette Anderson
Scoliosis is a condition defined by a lateral curvature of the spine to the left or right of center, often accompanied by rotation. While it is commonly associated with adolescence, it can affect individuals at any stage of life and influence posture, movement patterns, and overall spinal function.
How Does Scoliosis Develop?
Most cases of scoliosis are classified as idiopathic, meaning there is no single known cause. Research suggests contributing factors may include genetics, hormonal influences, postural adaptations, and nervous system development. Other cases are secondary and may be associated with connective tissue disorders or neuromuscular conditions, which can impact spinal stability and alignment.
How Is Scoliosis Identified?
Scoliosis is often first noticed through a physical assessment. Symptoms of scoliosis include: one shoulder blade that appears larger than the other, rib prominence on one side (humping), head not centered above the pelvis, spinal and sacral pain and discomfort, and limited mobility.
In runners, they may experience gait imbalance, uneven wear patters in running shoes, shin splints, knee pain, pelvic stress fractures, chronic one-sided ankle and foot pain, and other overuse injuries in the lower extremities. If scoliosis is suspected, imaging (typically X-rays) is used to confirm the diagnosis. The Cobb Angle is then measured to determine the degree of curvature. Research shows females have a higher risk of curve progression, with up to a 10x greater likelihood compared to males.
Understanding Curve Severity
Care recommendations are guided by the degree of curvature:
- 11–20°: Monitoring, chiropractic care, and targeted exercise
- 21–40°: Chiropractic management with consideration of bracing
- 40° and over: Consider orthopedic consultation
Scoliosis is best managed through a multi-modal approach, with chiropractic care serving as a central component.
What We Do at Anderson Peak Performance
As a Doctor of Chiropractic, Dr. Jeannette Anderson is an expert in the detection and correction of subluxations (misalignments), removing nervous system interference and allowing your body to express its full healing potential. Scoliosis affects more than spinal alignment—it influences how the body moves and functions as a whole. At Anderson Peak Performance, we take a whole-body, systems-based approach. This consists of a consultation, Chiropractic, orthopedic and spinal exam, postural photos, gait analysis, and a 3D postural scan, and X-Rays, to create a custom care plan to treat any complaints, as well as the underlying scoliosis.
From there, care is tailored to how your body specifically presents. We focus on restoring motion within the spine through precise chiropractic adjustments, while also addressing how the rest of the body is adapting to the curve. This includes improving postural balance, supporting more symmetrical movement, and helping the body distribute load more efficiently.
As care progresses, we continually reassess movement, posture, and function to ensure your body is responding and adapting appropriately. This allows us to refine your care plan over time and support long-term improvements in mobility, coordination, and overall quality of life.
Chiropractic Adjustments: A Key Component
A primary tool in chiropractic care is the chiropractic adjustment—a precise, controlled technique used to restore motion to specific joints in the spine.
In scoliosis, some areas of the spine may become restricted while others compensate. Adjustments help improve mobility, reduce uneven stress, and support more balanced movement.
Rather than forcing structural change, adjustments create an environment where the body can move more efficiently and maintain better alignment over time.
Chiropractic Care as a Wellness Strategy
Chiropractic care supports scoliosis by focusing on how the spine functions—not just how it looks. Through Chiropractic care, it helps maintain mobility, support posture, and improve how the body adapts to daily activity and physical demands. For many individuals, it becomes part of an ongoing wellness routine that supports long-term spinal health and movement quality.