Best Non-Operative Scoliosis Treatment in Malaysia
First and foremost, scoliosis is not a disease but rather a descriptive term for a developmental disorder in which the spine bends to one side. Scoliosis, better known as “Skoliosis” in Malaysia, affect any part of the spine. However, it is most often seen in thoracic scoliosis impacting the upper and mid-back. It is also seen in the lower part of the back, as in lumbar scoliosis. Scoliosis may not be immediately apparent to the untrained eye. If you suspect scoliosis, get in touch with us.
Chiropractic Specialty Center® provides holistic scoliosis treatments for adults and kids. CSC scoliosis treatment program is a compressive alternative to scoliosis surgery in Malaysia; contact us today for more information on our non-operative scoliosis treatment today.
CSC evidence-based chiropractors in Kuala Lumpur provide customized scoliosis treatment as an alternative to surgery. Our doctors of chiropractic and clinical physiotherapists have the expertise, experience, knowledge, and advanced spine technology to help stabilize and correct the scoliotic spine of adults and kids.
CSC’s goal is to provide you with pertinent information to decide on the type of care you need. Far too many centers offer scoliosis treatment in Malaysia. Still, the vast majority of these centers have a limited understanding of a scoliotic spine, given that their therapeutic approach is based on basic or outdated methods. We intend to put a halt to these practices, as improper treatments are not only ineffective but also, more importantly, wasteful of the limited therapeutic window for corrections. You may use the knowledge presented on this web page to assess the care you may be getting or to help plan future treatments.
Of course, we will always recommend that you get your treatments from one of our centers, as we adamantly believe that none in Asia can offer you the targeted, comprehensive treatments provided by a Chiropractic Specialty Center® in Malaysia. In other words, we believe we are the best in Asia when it comes to noninvasive scoliosis treatments.
Terms and Classification of the Scoliotic Spine (Skoliosis)
Descriptive terms and classification of scoliosis were developed to assist in diagnosis management of those afflicted with this developmental disorder. Perhaps a good starting point lies in age-based descriptive terms. We will briefly touch on these as many are confused about these terms. However, before getting started, let’s review the basics of scoliosis. Generally speaking, scoliotic curves are of unknown etiology; as such, they are called “idiopathic.” Scoliosis often develops in adolescence and progressively worsens as the child ages (grows). It is a condition that runs in families, usually passed from mother to child, with a female predilection.
Descriptive Terms that defining the type of abnormal spine curvatures:
Any discussion of scoliosis is incomplete without one’s having a thorough explanation of the most common terms in scoliosis:
- Adult Scoliosis (Adult Idiopathic Scoliosis)
- Adolescent Scoliosis (Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis)
- Juvenile Scoliosis (Juvenile Idiopathic Scoliosis)
- Infantile Scoliosis (Infantile Idiopathic Scoliosis)
We will briefly describe each of these terms in separate sections. For better and more thorough explanations, please visit the page of the descriptive term. Our goal is to provide you with as much information as possible in your quest for better scoliosis treatment options. The scoliotic spine needs timely, targeted, effective therapeutic approaches to improve. We are here to help. So, feel free to contact us anytime.
The Adult Scoliosis
An adult scoliotic spine or adult scoliosis is a scoliotic condition observed in patients 18 years of age or older. There are two types of scoliosis in adults:
- Adult Idiopathic Scoliosis
- Adult Degenerative Scoliosis
In most cases, the Adult Idiopathic Scoliosis is a continuation of an Adolescent Scoliosis.
Scoliosis is a progressive disorder, meaning that it will worsen with time. Medical research has established that adults with scoliosis will suffer 0.5- to 2-degree progressions yearly, sometimes more. The most dangerous curves are the 30-degrees or more during adolescence. Therefore, the need for correction is pertinent in the early years of the disorder and adult life. The sooner you get started, the more effective the treatment will be.
Our centers will pay close attention to our adult patients and the adolescent curve and juvenile curve patients with scoliosis. Our goals are to correct, stabilize and maintain a well-balanced neuro-musculoskeletal (nerve, muscle, ligament, and joint) stability throughout the years. To learn more on adult scoliosis (skoliosis), please visit our page titled “Best Treatment Options for Adult Scoliosis.”
The Adolescent Scoliosis (Scoliosis In Kids)
An adolescent idiopathic scoliotic curve is illustrative of spinal curves in those between 10 and 18 years old. It is the most common type of scoliosis. Efforts are being made to identify the cause of adolescent scoliosis, but unfortunately, there has not been an adequate theory as to the cause. However, there are varying opinions about potential causes or its exacerbation including, but not limited to hormonal imbalances, asymmetric growth, and soft tissue imbalances or weaknesses.
Periodic assessments are critical in the proper management of adolescent scoliotic curves. Additionally, the date of the first menstrual cycle must be taken into consideration for girls. Typically, boys grow until their 16th birthday while girls continue to develop until the age of 14. For girls, rapid growth occurs in the first two years following the onset of the first menstrual cycle. However, keep in mind that scoliosis is a condition that continues to progress throughout life. The outlook for adolescent scoliotic patients is good when they have targeted treatment plans. Those diagnosed with severe scoliosis as young adolescents are especially at greater risk of experiencing a worsening of the condition. As such, their problems are harder to correct. You can learn more about the Best of the Holistic Treatment Approaches to Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliotic Curves in Malaysia.
The Juvenile Scoliosis
The term juvenile idiopathic scoliosis (JIS) is a reference to a scoliotic condition in children aged 4–10. The juvenile idiopathic scoliotic curve is the type of scoliosis seen in kids aged 4–7 (younger children). JIS, when present in young children is more common in boys, whereas those children between the ages of 7 and 10 (older kids) are often girls. Juvenile idiopathic scoliosis accounts for 10–15 % of all diagnosed cases of scoliotic spines and often presents as a right-sided curve. JS (juvenile scoliosis) patients are in critical need of care as they are living with curves that progress very rapidly. Learn more about our comprehensive therapy and treatment programs for Juvenile idiopathic scoliotic curves. Approximately 18–25% of these cases are linked to a neural axis abnormality such as the following:
- Syringomyelia
- Arnold-Chiari Syndrome
- Tethered Cord
Our clinical teams of chiropractors and physiotherapists continually update themselves as to the latest methods and developments in treatments of juvenile idiopathic scoliosis. Our tireless efforts of research and continuing education programs for all our clinical staff are the reasons we are fast becoming the premier center for scoliosis or skoliosis treatment in Malaysia. We are very passionate about scoliosis, especially when it affects young children, which is called juvenile idiopathic scoliosis.
The Infantile Scoliosis
For children under the age of 4 (birth to age 3), the most appropriate descriptive term for the disease is infantile idiopathic scoliosis. This term is used with infants and toddlers diagnosed from the time of birth up to their third year of age, and it accounts for about 1% of all diagnosed cases. It is more common in boys (60%). The etiology (cause) of infantile scoliosis is still unknown, but, often, it is linked to a neural axis abnormality, which we discuss in greater detail under the section “Causes of Scoliotic Curve.”
We mentioned earlier that the cause of infantile scoliosis is still unknown. However, two leading theories propose two possible causes:
- Intra-uterine molding
- Post delivery therapy.
The possible intrauterine molding cause, or, better yet, theory, is related to abnormal stresses from the walls of the uterus leading to either the flattening of the skull or the bending of the spine. Infants born with scoliotic conditions tend to have a condition that often progresses rapidly. Often, they progress beyond 60 degrees before or during adolescence. Therefore, correction and appropriate, timely care are imperative when it comes to management of these infants.
On the other hand, the post-delivery theory links the scoliotic development in infants to the flattening of the skull that results from setting the baby in the crib on its back for prolonged periods. It is thought that the placement of infants in a prolonged supine position (lying on their backs) leads to malformation of the occipital bone (the base of the skull), causing a neural axis abnormality. Both theories provide illumination on the root causes of neural axis abnormalities in infants. Furthermore, they may even shed much light on juvenile scoliosis (or “skoliosis”) as it relates to a neural axis abnormality.
Difference Between the Structural and Non-Structural Classification of Scoliotic Curves
Before we begin our discussion of the differences between the structural and non-structural forms of scoliotic curves, it is worth mentioning that these terms came into existence to improve surgeon-to-surgeon communications. The number of scoliotic patients is increasing substantially. Given that, the number of surgeries has also increased. The rapid rise in skoliosis diagnoses and surgical interventions was first noticed in the mid-1980s. Dr. Lawrence G Lenke devised a means of classification to improve intra-clinician communication in regard to surgical patients.
The Lenke method of assessments and classifications are, for the most part, based on his two classifications below:
- Non-Structural (Functional) Scoliosis
- Structural Scoliosis (Non-Functional) Scoliosis
We ask everyone to keep in mind that this method of classification is for surgeons to help them in their surgical communication with other surgeons or their surgical teams. Thus, don’t be alarmed by the references or descriptions mentioned below:
Functional or Non-Structural Curves
Functional or nonstructural scoliosis is the term given to scoliotic curves that are reversible. Non-structural or functional scoliotic curves respond faster to targeted treatments. The most common causes of functional scoliosis (non-structural scoliotic curve) are as follow:
- A discrepancy in leg lengths
- Muscular spasms
Non-functional scoliosis, better known as the structural scoliotic curve, is often classified as irreversible scoliosis. Again, don’t get alarmed: The reversibility of scoliosis in the structural and non-structural categories is purely a reference to x-ray assessments performed on side-bending x-rays, as described by Dr. Lawrence G Lenke. In short, Dr. Lenke invented this method to communicate and identify curves that respond better to surgical intervention. So, it is not as applicable to the non-surgical settings or through systems used in our centers. The only reason why we have mentioned this system of classification is to provide you with thorough background information on scoliosis. Besides, you have heard others speak about functional and non-functional scoliosis.
According to most researchers, a structural scoliotic spine is a form of the congenital disorder (present at birth). Structural scoliotic curves involve spinal rotation toward the concavity. Structural scoliosis is classified in the following manner:
- Idiopathic
- Neurological
- Congenital
- Neuro-Muscular
- Post-Traumatic
The Basics of Scoliosis
Unlike other spinal related disorders, a scoliotic curve is a three-dimensional disorder. But yet, most centers, neglect, ignore or do not take the three-dimensional aspect into consideration. An understanding of the three-dimensional aspect of scoliosis will enable you to understand why your curves are getting worse and, most importantly, what needs attention for faster corrections.
Axial Plane and the Scoliotic Spine
Rotation (turning and twisting) of the spine is a common finding in scoliotic patients. These rotations take place in the axial plane. Why is this important? Well, rotations in scoliotic curves are the leading reasons why scoliosis (skoliosis) progresses. Thus, to stop the progression, therapeutic steps must be taken to decrease vertebral rotations in the axial plane.
Coronal Plane and Spinal Curves
Side bending or lateral bending of the spine occurs in the coronal plane. Although other factors influence the progression of a curve, biomechanical abnormalities in the coronal plane play a critical role. The first person to offer well-thought-out methods of assessment for the coronal plane was Dr. John Robert Cobb, who later devised a new method of evaluating scoliosis from the sagittal plane.
Sagittal Plane and the Scoliotic Spine
Decreases or increases in the natural lordotic or kyphotic curves of the spine are evaluated in the sagittal plane. In patients with scoliosis, side-bending and spinal bone rotations are almost always coupled with alternations in spinal postures that are visible from the side. Some patients develop a swayback while others develop a flat back or a hump. Our clinical teams pay close attention to any biomechanical alterations, including those detected in the sagittal planes. It is this means of assessment that enables us to offer you the most comprehensive scoliosis treatment in Southeast Asia (Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia, Thailand, and Brunei).
To understand better the three-dimensional aspect of scoliosis and how our methods are superior to others, please visit “Scoliosis: A Three-Dimensional Disorder of the Spine.”
What Are The Causes Of Abnormal Spine Curvatures Such As Scoliosis?
The cause of scoliosis isn’t always known, but sometimes, it is the result of developmental abnormalities. Some of these developmental abnormalities are present at birth and progress as the child ages. Developmental abnormalities such as shortened muscles fibers, anatomical leg length discrepancies, and pelvic rotations are mechanical disorders, which may lead to or worsen a scoliotic condition. Other causes may include neural axis anomalies and neurological disorders.
The Neural Axis Causes of Scoliosis
Neural axis defects are said to be present in 10-25% of idiopathic scoliosis cases, but some researchers put the numbers as high as 50% in juvenile scoliosis patients. Neural axis anomalies are disorders near the base of the skull resulting in impingements of either the brain stem or the uppermost portions of the spinal cord. The need for the proper assessment of these structures is critical to the success of any treatments of a scoliotic patient.
The vast majority of centers, clinics, and hospitals fail to recognize the clinical significance of the neural axis anomaly. As such, they are unable to offer effective treatment options. However, our centers and our clinical teams will thoroughly assess your spine to identify hidden and lesser-known causes of scoliosis. Our goal is to correct your spine along with any of the associated conditions present. In short, the care you get from one of our centers is the best and most comprehensive scoliosis treatment option in Asia.
To a great part, neural axis conditions and anomalies were established long ago, but its association with scoliosis emerged in the early 1980s. In fact, with the advent of MRI, clinicians are more capable of identifying neural axis anomaly. However, there is still much debate as to the usefulness of MRI and scoliosis. Our clinical teams of chiropractors will utilize a variety of methods and analysis to assert the wellbeing of the brain stem or upper spinal cord. We assess your spine through X-rays or MRI should there be a need.
Other potential causes could include the following:
- Congenital Scoliosis: A rare form that is present at birth due to abnormal spine development during gestation.
- Neuromuscular Conditions: Cerebral palsy, muscular dystrophy, poliomyelitis, and other diseases that affect the muscles and nerves may cause scoliosis.
- Specific Genes: At least one gene has been isolated that is believed to be a factor.
- Varying Leg Length: This occurs when one leg is shorter than the other, an individual may develop scoliosis.
- Osteoporosis: This is more common in the elderly when bones degenerate and lead to a side bending of the spine causing secondary scoliosis
- Syndromic Scoliosis: This is linked to other diseases like Marfan syndrome or neurofibromatosis and can cause scoliosis to develop.
- Miscellaneous Causes: Examples of causes include carrying heavy backpacks or bags, poor posture, connective tissue disorders, and certain injuries may contribute to the development of scoliosis.
Do keep in mind that many other conditions can cause or be a contributing factor to the development of scoliosis. Furthermore, there are times when more than one factor is involved.
What Are Scoliosis Signs, Symptoms & Risk Factors?
Patients may experience back pain or neck pain with some form of scoliosis, but typically the condition does not cause obvious pain. Pain is common for older and those that have had the condition for a long time. If you have a scoliotic curve and experience pain, visit one of our centers. The most common cause of pain in patients under the age of 30 is linked to progression. Therefore, those who have painful scoliotic curvatures will need a targeted means of therapy that gets rid of pain and targets the scoliotic curvature. Additionally, the fact that scoliosis can become painful is yet another reason why you should opt for treatments as early as possible.
Left untreated, scoliotic conditions can cause impaired lung and heart function later in life. This is just one reason why it is imperative that a patient is evaluated as soon as possible to minimize the long-term ramifications of the condition. Our experts ask all visitors to have their children checked on a regular basis. A scoliosis check can be done at home, but it would be better if performed by a clinical team, such as ours. We have provided you a list of signs that can help you identify family members at risk:
- Asymmetrical ribcage, where the ribs can be at different heights
- Slightly off-center head
- Legs that are uneven in length
- Clothing that doesn’t hang properly on the body
- A hip that is more prominent than the other
- One shoulder is higher than the other
- Leaning to one side when standing
The Three Risk Factors Of Scoliosis
- Age: Symptoms and detectable signs of scoliosis may start during a pre-pubescent growth spurt
- Genetics: Those who have family members with scoliosis may be at a higher risk of developing the condition
- Gender: Females are at a higher risk than males of developing scoliosis
What Is The Best Method Of Diagnosis Scoliosis
Our Doctors of Chiropractic will carry out a physical examination of the spine, ribs, hips, and shoulders. He or she can, with the aid of a tool called an inclinometer (Scoliometer), measure the degree of scoliosis. If necessary, the patient will then be referred for scoliosis-specific X-rays. Scoliosis X-rays are different from general X-rays, and only a handful of the hospitals in the Klang Valley have technologists familiar with the procedure. Many hospitals and clinics are ill-equipped or lack the needed understanding of how to properly do a full-spine scoliosis study. Our center can help arrange your X-rays to ensure they meet the requirements. The paragraph below will familiarize you better with the process of scoliosis with X-rays.
CSC’s Scoliosis Diagnosis & Analysis
X-rays: Our clinical teams will order an X-ray to evaluate your scoliosis. Spinal X-rays will help to determine the shape, direction, location, and angle of the curve. X-rays are critical to establishing our targeted treatment plan. However, many centers and clinics often prescribe X-rays in sectional forms. For proper study and analysis, scoliosis X-rays must be full-spine and on a single film. As such, regional X-rays for a scoliotic patient have minimal clinical usage. So, if you bring in regional X-rays, our Doctors of Chiropractic may recommend the proper study: full-spine films with opposing views. You may get more information on our methods of analysis by visiting our page titled, “The best Scoliosis Treatment Method in Malaysia.”
Imaging scans: If there are further symptoms, such as back pain, pain in the legs or arms, numbness, and tingling in legs or arms, or if symptoms are severe, an MRI or CT scan may be needed. Rest assured that regardless of your condition, we can help. We have treated many successfully when others could not help.
Benefits of Early Detection
Simply put, early detection is key to early correction! Don’t be misled by the ill-informed: Correcting early scoliosis is easier and better. However, there are many healthcare providers, nurses, physiotherapists, osteopaths, chiropractors, and medical doctors that have limited understanding. Sadly enough, most of the misconceptions on scoliosis are those that are traced back to physicians and therapists. There are a few misconceptions out there. We will cover some of them shortly. We aim to provide parents and patients with sound advice.
Myths & Misconceptions of Scoliotic Spine or Skoliosis
It’s important that patients are aware of the many myths and misconceptions revolving around scoliosis. Some flawed practices and theories are not only false or based on faulty data, but adhering to these misconceptions can be harmful in the long run. These shortsighted theories spread by people with limited knowledge often originate, surprisingly, with doctors and therapists. These doctors and therapists may be well-intentioned, but that is of little matter when following the advice of such practitioners may lead to a poor prognosis in the long run.
A Flaw In The Practice: The Casting Of Scoliotic Spine
Often given as a recommendation for infants. There are instances where an infant may benefit from a cast, but casting should not be performed for other age groups. The practice of casting for those above the age of 4 is flawed. Some inappropriate argument states that casting immobilizes infants and is good for scoliosis. However, in our view casting should only be performed when an infants rib-angle is greater than 20 degrees and if therapeutic options fail.
Plaster of Paris and Casts for the Scoliotic Spine
Plaster of Paris is used to make the casts. This comical and nonsensical barbaric method is close to torture or, at the very least, malpractice! Allow us to highlight the flaws. However, before we do so, let’s put Plaster of Paris into the spotlight for a moment.
A quick-setting gypsum plaster, Plaster of Paris is made up of a fine white powder called calcium sulfate hemihydrate; the powder becomes hard when moistened and then left to dry. Plaster of Paris has been known since ancient times and received its name due to the abundant gypsum plaster that was found close to Paris. Casts that immobilize bones during the healing process are the most popular use of this plaster within the healthcare world. Since we now understand the concept of plaster of Paris, we are ready to move on to why the practice is flawed.
People who feel that casting is appropriate tell us that the casts stay in place for a matter of weeks or months. Such individuals promote the idea that casts allow growth during the healing process. However, they are unaware of the fact that such casts hinder bone, muscle, and ligament growth! A colossal amount of literature exists that states that patients who had cast for only a few days had wastage of soft tissues. To make matters worse, they recommend changing the cast every few months to accommodate the growth that has taken place. In fact, often, they cast and re-cast the helpless infants for months or weeks at a time. This is a torturous and barbaric method of care that must be stopped!
The Myth: Abnormal Spinal Curves Will Correct Itself Over Time
You may have noticed that we did not start the heading with the word “flawed” here, as all myths are flawed! Some doctors practice a “wait and see” method of management. In other words, they do nothing therapeutic until the curve worsens. These are those that recommend periodical X-rays (every 4-6 months) to keep an eye on progression. In our view and those of many leading practitioners, a scoliotic spine should be treated at the time of detection. There is no room for a wait-and-see approach, at least not in our centers.
The human body is in a constant state of flux. In other words, our bodies are constantly changing, even more so when it comes to children. No cases have been recorded where scoliosis corrected itself without treatment. It is just that simple. A child’s spine is constantly changing for better or worse. When scoliosis emerges, it always worsens. At its onset, especially in early adolescence and preadolescent years, the progression is gradual. Its progression increases during periods of rapid growth. The key to successful outcomes is treating kids in early adolescent or pre-adolescent years before periods of rapid growth. So, take the wait-and-see advice of so-called experts with a grain of salt; we recommend seeking advice from medical doctors that treat scoliosis with targeted methods.
The best advice we have for patients and parents is that time is critical and wasting time always ends with the patient on the surgical table. Don’t be fooled or misled by the efforts of the novice. Always seek advice and conservative corrections as soon as there are signs of scoliosis. Early care and detection are the keys to avoiding the big ones. It is just that simple!
The Misconception: Yoga Helps – Be Very Careful!
By definition, a misconception is an incorrect view or opinion based on faulty thinking or understanding. Yoga’s helping scoliosis is a misconception of the highest levels. Yoga prescribed for correcting a scoliotic spine is an erroneous belief widely held and practiced by even some notable orthopedic surgeons.
First and foremost, if you or your child has scoliosis, you need to be aware of certain postures and movements that harm and worsen scoliosis. Most critical is the need to avoid the postures and position listed below:
- Bending backward
- Twisting the torso
- Bending sideways
- Shoulder stand
With this in mind, one can easily see why scoliosis and yoga postures, movements, or maneuvers are harmful. And as such, it is our opinion that yoga postures and exercises should be avoided altogether. Exercising and stretching are critical to improving scoliosis, but it can also be quite harmful. For you to recover from an illness or malfunction, the care you get must be target-specific. Yoga is good but counter-productive for the management of scoliosis. Please visit our page on yoga for a detailed explanation of why Yoga is dangerous for scoliotic patients.
Braces are Fundamentally Flawed!
Bracing is a myth concocted by profiteers and pushed by the ill-informed. Don’t fall victim to this absurd practice. Full-time scoliosis bracing is an outdated treatment that must end. The bracing of scoliosis has been around for over 400 years, and it has almost never resulted in positive outcomes. Therefore, those who brace a scoliotic patient fit the description of being insane for insanity is doing the same thing-over-and-over and expecting a different outcome. In Malaysia, many centers offer hard braces, and some have fancy soft braces with hefty price tags. Please stay away from these profiteers for they only want to drain your wallet.
Bracing is a controversial practice, and it has failed to show clinical effectiveness. In fact, research has found bracing for worsening clinical outcomes. It has been proven that bracing causes more problems for the person wearing it, such as breathing problems, weakened muscles, and pain.
The Common Ground Between Bracing and Casts
Braces, including hard plastic braces, metal braces, and even softer dynamic braces, will lead to muscle weaknesses. Simply put, when you don’t use your muscles, they deteriorate. For example, when a broken wrist is cast, the muscles in the wrist and even the arm become small and weak. In fact, most broken wrist patients will have significant weakness and atrophy in their wrist muscles. Some experience muscle weakness to the point where they are unable to extend or flex their wrist. Similarly, this is what happens when your child wears a scoliotic brace for the recommended 18-23 hours a day.
If you need another clear signal that bracing is counterproductive, Simply look at the fact that curves worsen when the brace is taken off. In a brace, your child’s spine becomes stiff. When robbed of the opportunity to move, joints degenerate at an accelerated pace. Additionally, scoliosis bracing puts stress on the ribs and typically causes a rib hump. Please visit our bracing for scoliosis page for more information.
Are all Scoliosis Treatments the Same?
Scoliosis treatment varies from center to center, so the answer to this question is a big NO! Chiropractors and physiotherapists are trained and educated practitioners. However, there are significant differences between them; the differences are present even if they graduated from the same university! These differences are because the practice of chiropractic or physiotherapy is as much science as it is art. Some have a better understanding of the science, while others are better with the art of treatment. Additionally, some competing centers fail the art as well as the scientific aspects of their associated field. If you are looking for the best teams in Chiropractic or Physiotherapy, look no further than Chiropractic Specialty Center®.
We are the premier spine, joint, scoliosis, and sports injury treatment center in Malaysia. None can surpass our skills, knowledge, or technological advantage in the non-invasive treatment of joints, the spine, or scoliosis. So, don’t waste effort, time, or your hard-earned cash on lesser, ineffective methods. You may find cheap treatment centers, but you will not find centers that are better than us.
To illustrate how we are better, we provide a brief comparison between our systems and what others may use. We do this to help you make an informed decision and to improve your understanding of the fact that chiropractic and physiotherapy centers do not always offer the same level of care. For example:
Inversion tables or the grab and pull methods of others versus our Advanced Technology, the RxDecom®:
Some centers hang patients upside down or physically grab and pull patients downwards in their attempts to elongate and stretch the spine, while we offer targeted spinal decompression through advanced technology, such as the RxDecom®. The RxDecom® is state-of-the-art technology developed by our very own founder, Dr. Yama Zafer. It aims at decompressing and stretching the spine at its predetermined region, basically, specificity at its finest. We do not believe in stretching the entire spine aimlessly. Using the RxDecom®, all the patient’s vital information will be keyed into the computer, and the machine will then generate the pull at the specified region. Our scoliosis patients have found tremendous relief with the aid of the RxDecom®.
Traditional Spinal Manipulations versus our Targeted Spinal Adjustments:
Chiropractors and Osteopaths are not the only ones who perform joint manipulation. It is also somewhat of a common practice among, Physiotherapists, Chinese Medical practitioners, or traditional bonesetters. Regardless of the practitioner, often, spine or joint mobilizations are done through various side-posture methods. Even though the mobilization, manipulations, and adjustments performed by Chiropractors and Osteopaths are specific, they are still rotatory procedures, which can be harmful to a scoliotic patient.
The side-posture method (regardless of technique) is one in which a patient lies on one side, with one leg bent at the knee, and then the practitioner rotates the spine while delivering a thrust into the spine. This method of spinal mobilization has been around for hundreds of years and is quite helpful for many who have mechanical back or neck issues. However, when it comes to scoliosis, it may be contraindicated. Scoliosis is a rotatory condition, and, as such, rotational movements should be avoided, in particular for those that have an “S-shaped curve” (double rotatory scoliosis). On the other hand, our Chiropractic adjustments are given in such a manner to reduce the rotation, and therefore it avoids any rotatory movements of the spine.
Monkey bars versus our Focused Spinal Rehabilitation:
Some use monkey bars or other non-specific means of stretching your muscles and soft tissues. The clinical teams of Chiropractic Specialty Centers will carefully assess every scoliotic patient carefully to identify muscular rigidity or weakness in the spine as well as the extremities. In short, we do not use the monkey bar, where you “hold on for dear life” while being pulled down! On the other hand, the soft tissue rehabilitation you get from us is thorough and consists of condition-specific methods that do not cause harm, stress, or discomfort. In fact, our clinical teams will only use the best and most researched methods of treatment. So, you can rest assured when you visit one of our centers.
To conclude, our methods of chiropractic, physiotherapy, and rehabilitation are carefully planned for each patient. A lot goes into our process of assessment, and as such, we get better results.
CSC’s Targeted Methods of Scoliosis Treatment
Awareness of scoliosis is more widespread than ever before, but general knowledge is not the same as expertise. We have had patients inform us of their treatments from other centers. Often, we have discovered that the type of care they received from others was limited or even counterproductive.
Before discussing effective treatment options, we like to call attention to the fact that therapy or treatments will only be effective if they target spinal malfunctions comprehensively. In other words, for better results, opt for targeted methods that treat all components of a scoliotic spinal curve rather than just a single issue. Learn more about why we are “The Best Scoliosis Therapy Center in Malaysia.”
CSC’s targeted treatments are better because they are based on the most holistic scoliosis therapy in Malaysia. While we are a chiropractic and physiotherapy center, our methods are more comprehensive than what competing chiropractors or physiotherapists can offer.
The biggest difference between our clinical teams and the competing centers out there is our knowledge and expertise when it comes to scoliosis!
When it comes to scoliosis, there are no shortcuts. Let one of CSC’s clinical team members evaluate you or your child today. Many offer scoliosis treatments, but none have the technology, skills, or knowledge for the holistic corrections that we provide. The quick fixes, general exercises, stretches, and maneuvers most recommended may not help; in fact, some of these efforts could lead to the faster progression of the curve.
What Are the Current Methods of Scoliosis Treatment in Malaysia?
This section will review some of the best currently available treatment methods, including physiotherapy, exercise, chiropractic treatment, massage, bonesetters, and guru care like yoga. We’ll aim to inform you fully about each of these options, presenting both the benefits and the potential drawbacks. Let us be clear at the outset, though: CSC’s preferred scoliosis treatment methods will always be those our chiropractic doctors and clinical physiotherapists provide. CSC’s scoliosis treatment plans are always customized to reflect the unique needs of individual patients. Factors affecting your treatment plan in one of our centers may include one or more of the following:
Curve Severity: The shape and degree of curvature indicate whether or not an individual case will worsen. “S-shaped” or “double” curves are more likely to cause future complications. “S-shaped” curves are less troublesome on their own, but they can develop into double curves over time. Our clinical team members will carefully evaluate your condition before establishing a targeted treatment plan.
Curve Position: Curves in the central portion of the spine are the most severe and pose a greater risk than curves at the lower or upper ends of the spine. You can rest assured that our experts are the best ones in Malaysia for a comprehensive therapy approach.
Skeletal Maturity: Scoliosis is far less likely to worsen if the patient is already past the age at which the bones stop growing. Therefore, the care you get from us will be focused on improving your muscular and soft tissue imbalances to enable healthy growth as you get older.
Non-Surgical Treatment Options For Scoliosis
CSC centers are dedicated to providing holistic and individual solutions for dealing with scoliosis. We are the most comprehensive source of non-invasive scoliosis treatment in Asia. Our clinical teams look at spinal joint positioning, muscular balance, the sternum, rib cage alignment, and the lower limbs. We inspect a scoliotic curve from every point of view to understand every aspect of your condition and ensure that you get the most effective treatment possible.
CSC’s chiropractic doctors helping you will use X-rays to identify the most important sites to treat. While we treat the entire spine, we recognize that key segments need precise correction to deal with scoliosis. Less-experienced practitioners frequently overlook the subtle rotational malpositioning of the spinal segments, and even those who find such malpositioning may not have the therapeutic expertise necessary to correct the problem. Proper holistic care also requires equally insightful attention to be paid to the pelvis, hips, knees, feet, and ankles. Effective scoliosis treatment needs to be specifically targeted. While corrective surgery is usually an option for scoliosis, we always regard it as the last option.
Even advocates of spine surgery typically only recommend it for cases of extreme curvature. Before you commit to a course of treatment like surgery, consult with us and consider our non-invasive scoliosis treatment options first. We may be able to provide relief that other professionals cannot.
Is Scoliosis Spine Surgery (Spinal Fusion) A Good Solution?
Before we start looking into details, it’s worth mentioning that surgery of a scoliotic spine should only be considered when non-invasive treatments fail. Under certain circumstances, non-operative scoliosis treatments are possible, provided that all aspects of your condition are taken note of. This means that you need to have access to an experienced team of knowledgeable specialists, as well as to the therapeutic devices and technology required to correct the curve of your spine.
Scoliosis is a progressive condition; you can expect it to worsen with time. This progression is accelerated if you neglect your condition or if you use the wrong treatments. Even a mild curve can progress to severe deformity in a few months’ time, especially during puberty, when your body goes through a rapid growth stage. We believe even severe cases should be treated through non-surgical means and that surgery should be given thought when our methods do not improve or manage a scoliotic curve.
Spine surgery for the scoliotic spine can reduce the curve or at least stop it from worsening. Nonetheless, potential complications can be extremely severe, so surgery should be considered with great care. Above all other things, you need to exhaust all non-surgical options, and only then think about surgery. We are biased in recommending our clinics, but we are extremely confident in the skills, knowledge, and technology of our non-operative holistic specialists.
When Should Scoliosis Surgery Be Considered?
Before giving you more details on spine surgery, we need to stress the fact that scoliosis surgery is risky. Most surgeons recommend it only in case of curves that are at 45 degrees or more. Our opinion is that surgery shouldn’t be the first treatment option unless the curves are over 60 degrees and in dire need to be corrected. We strongly believe that all curves below 60 degrees can be corrected without surgery. We’ve got modern methods and techniques that make the vast majority of treatments described in the published literature on scoliosis outdated.
That being said, we don’t recommend surgery unless the curve is 60 degrees or over, and the patient doesn’t respond to our alternative methods. This is to say that only a life-threatening condition may require scoliosis surgery. Such examples include situations in which abnormal pressure on the heart or the lungs poses lethal risks. We’ve discussed all details of the surgical option as well as non-operative in the page titled “Chiropractic, Physiotherapy or Surgery.”
Scoliosis spine surgery is spinal fusion and spinal rods made of titanium. The main point of this operation is to realign and fuse together the curved vertebrae. When they heal, they become one single, solid bone. The degree of correction depends on the flexibility of the scoliotic curve. The more flexible your curve, the better the correction a good surgeon can perform. Usually, experienced surgeons measure the flexibility of your curve before the surgical procedure. This measurement is done with the help of special x-rays while the patient is bending.
What Does Surgery Involve?
This isn’t the main subject of this article, but if you want to know more details, you are welcome to visit our page: “Scoliosis Surgery.” This section has the sole purpose of helping you gain some basic understanding of what to expect, should you choose the surgical treatment route.
Bone grafts – Two or more vertebrae get connected to new bone grafts. In some cases, wires, rods or screws are used to fix the bones into position during the healing period.
Intensive care – The surgical procedure lasts 4-8 hours, and then the child (patient) is transferred to an ICU, where they get the adequate treatments and 24/7 medical surveillance and monitoring. Most children leave the ICU after 24 hours, but they have to remain in the hospital for a period that may last from one week to 10 days.
Recovery – Most can return to school or work (adults) after 4-6 weeks, and they can do sports after about one year later. Some cases require a back brace to be worn for about six months, in order to support the spine during the healing process. Patients have to return to the hospital twice a year to have their rods extended: this is regularly an outpatient procedure. Once the spine has grown, the rods are going to be removed.
What Are Some of the Risks Associated with Spine Surgery?
Your surgeon will almost always go over the risks associated with the surgery before you ever go under the knife. Surgical intervention must only be done once the surgeon has helped you understand the risks associated with the surgery so that you can weigh them then decide whether you would still like to proceed with the surgery. The risks include:
Displacement of Rods: A-rod might move from its proper position, and while it might not be uncomfortable, the patient could end up requiring further surgery.
Pseudarthrosis: Pseudarthrosis is defined as a false joint or a non-union of bones. Post-scoliosis surgery in pseudarthrosis happens once the body perceives a bone graft as a foreign or separate bone and doesn’t make any attempt to unite them. This is one risk factor that can potentially hinder surgical outlook. Patients sometimes experience varying degrees of pain while the spine might not be successfully corrected. Further surgery will be required in most cases.
Infection: All invasive procedures carry the risk of infection. The surgical interventions for scoliotic patients are usually quite intensive, and there’s always a risk of infections occurring. Early detection and suitable treatment and follow-up are key to management of the infections. Antibiotics are usually used for treatment.
Nerve Damage: The nerves of the spine can suffer damage with the results ranging from mild to severe. The commonest sign of nerve damage is a burning, tingling sensation in the arms or legs. In severe cases, patients might experience paralysis in either one or both legs to paraplegia. Scoliosis surgery might require the presence of a neurosurgeon.
We hope the information presented here was helpful. Our centers offer the best chiropractic treatment in Malaysia. But, it is not just our chiropractic care; we also provide clinical scoliosis treatments through advanced physiotherapy and breakthrough technology.