SCOLIOSIS
Chiropractic Treatment for Scoliosis in San Jose, CA
What is Scoliosis?
Scoliosis is a sideways curve of the spine, where a healthy spine would run vertically. The origin of the curve is often hard to trace. It may begin as a small bend involving a single area of the spine. Over time, the body compensates — muscles adapt on each side of the curve to keep the head level, which can reinforce the pattern.
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Scoliosis can be related to posture, degenerative changes, or past injuries. Many cases are first noticed during the rapid growth years, particularly between ages 10 and 12, but scoliosis can also develop later in life. In older adults it is often associated with degenerative conditions such as osteoporosis.
How Scoliosis Is Identified
Scoliosis is often first noticed by a parent or someone close to the person, when the shoulders, waistline, or hips no longer appear level.
A clinical evaluation may include:
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Postural and gait assessment — how you stand and move
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Visual and manual examination of the spine
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Adam's Forward Bend Test — bending forward to make a rib or lumbar prominence more visible
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Imaging referral — when a curve is suspected, an X-ray is used to measure the curve (Cobb angle) and determine its extent
A diagnosis of scoliosis is generally made when the curve measures more than 10 degrees on imaging.
Symptoms People Notice
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Uneven shoulders, shoulder blades, waist, or hips
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Clothing that hangs unevenly
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Back, neck, or shoulder discomfort
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Muscle fatigue after standing or sitting for long periods
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Reduced flexibility or a feeling of being "stuck" on one side
Many people with mild scoliosis have no pain at all, and the curve is found incidentally.
When to Seek Medical Evaluation First
​Chiropractic care is not appropriate for every situation. Please see a physician promptly if you notice:
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A curve that appears to be worsening quickly, especially in a growing child or teen
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Numbness, tingling, or weakness in the legs
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Changes in bowel or bladder control
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Shortness of breath or reduced exercise tolerance
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Significant unexplained back pain, particularly at night or with fever or weight loss
These signs require evaluation by a medical doctor before beginning conservative care.
How We Approach Scoliosis
​Our goal with scoliosis is realistic and specific: support spinal mobility, address muscular imbalance, and help you move and function more comfortably.
Chiropractic care does not straighten a scoliotic curve, and we will not tell you otherwise. What conservative care can often help with is the discomfort, stiffness, and muscular strain that accompany the curve.
A typical process at Five Balance Health Center:
1. Evaluation A full history and physical assessment, including posture, range of motion, and how the curve affects your daily activities. If imaging is needed or if your presentation warrants medical referral, we will tell you.
2. Individualized care plan Depending on findings, care may include gentle chiropractic adjustments, soft tissue work, and — where appropriate — our shockwave and laser therapies to address muscular pain and tension associated with the curve.
3. Home and activity guidance Positioning, movement, and strengthening suggestions you can apply between visits.
4. Coordination when appropriate For adolescent patients with progressive curves, bracing or orthopedic evaluation may be indicated. We are glad to work alongside your physician or refer you when that is the right step.
What to Expect
Responses vary. Some people notice reduced discomfort and easier movement within a few visits; others need a longer course of care. Scoliosis is generally a long-term condition that is managed, not cured, and we will be candid with you about what care can and cannot do in your particular case.
We will also tell you when chiropractic care is not the right answer for your situation.