Scoliosis clinics specialising in treating the condition provide several advantages over general medical practices that do not focus on the condition. This is something that, hopefully, you already knew. Clinics with a scoliosis specialist can do the following:
Offer a Reliable Diagnosis
Specialists have years of training and expertise under their belts, allowing them to not only provide a definitive diagnosis of the condition but also to measure and map the unique characteristics of your scoliosis and provide you with a personalised treatment plan. Although many general practitioners can spot scoliosis, only a scoliosis specialist can collect the comprehensive data necessary to create a personalised treatment plan supported by scientific evidence.
Use Reliable Diagnostic Methods
It cannot be overstated how important it is to have the proper diagnostic tools to understand a patient’s scoliosis properly. The specialist can determine the severity of your scoliosis with the help of X-rays, which should be available and evaluated by any reputable facility. Modern clinics assert that non-ionising techniques like ultrasound or laser measurement are adequate for scoliosis diagnosis, despite the lack of scientific evidence to support this. Unfortunately, this is not the case; a doctor needs an MRI or an X-ray to make a preliminary diagnosis. Although such approaches may help track a patient’s improvement during therapy, they cannot replace a thorough physical exam for a proper diagnosis.
Give Each Patient the Attention They Deserve
Distinct from other medical disorders, scoliosis manifests itself differently in each patient. All scoliosis treatments are unique, but some general patterns can be seen. Furthermore, scoliosis treatment must be regularly re-evaluated and altered to get the best outcomes as quickly as possible. These factors indicate that “standardised” scoliosis treatment provided by specific non-specialist clinics is subpar at best. Inappropriate treatment might aggravate a patient’s condition, while the consequences may be negligible.
Ensure That Congenital Causes Are Eliminated
Scoliosis is typically idiopathic (in younger people) or de-novo (in older patients). However, it is essential to rule out other potential reasons for scoliosis, such as neurological or congenital issues. Specialists should avoid traditional scoliosis correction treatments in cases where an underlying congenital or neurological problem is suspected because these treatments could worsen the patient’s condition. Clinics run by trained professionals will be able to rule out such possibilities and direct you to the appropriate scoliosis specialist.
Choose From a Variety of Available Treatment Modalities
Specialist scoliosis clinics and doctors will likely offer a range of options for treating the condition. Scoliosis-specific exercise and bracing are the cornerstones of any effective treatment plan. Still, a variety of other options, such as chiropractic or massage therapy, may be considered for symptomatic relief in the meantime. Scoliosis is rarely best treated with a single method, so choosing a clinic that provides a range of options designed specifically for the condition is essential. Though they may have the patient’s best interests at heart, clinics that provide only one therapy method often limit the range of options available to them.
Recommendations Based on Current Findings
Professionals treating scoliosis and members of an appropriate organisation are expected to keep abreast of the most recent developments in the area. This implies that a clinician who treats scoliosis will always be up-to-date on the newest research and treatments. Still, you have a better chance of receiving cutting-edge care at a facility dedicated to the condition.
Conclusion
Many cases are considered to be moderate and need minimal treatment. However, it might become life-threatening if you do nothing about your scoliosis. Visit a scoliosis specialist just to be safe if you notice any warning indications of the condition.
