Episode 55: What is Thoracolumbar Scoliosis?

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The diagnosis of scoliosis is typically associated with the area of a spine meaning, thoracic, thoracolumbar, and lumbar. We know from previous episodes that scoliosis is a sideway curvature and it needs to be greater than 10 degrees when measured using the Cobb angle analysis.

When we look at what area of the spine it is, there are three main areas namely: cervical, thoracic, and lumbar (neck, mid back, low back). These areas help classify the type of scoliosis.

Thoracic scoliosis is the most common. But the truth is, scoliosis can develop in any area of the spine, and patients can have multiple curvatures. You can have a combination of thoracic and lumbar, typically, they’re going to tell you where the biggest curve is.

The different types of scoliosis can be classified based on the following:

Age group (infantile, adolescent, juvenile, adult)
Underlying conditions ((idiopathic, congenital, neuromuscular)
Severity (mild, moderate, severe)
Location – where the curve is actually located

The reason why these classifications exist is it helps us find out which treatment option works best for which type of condition. It helps us design treatment guidelines and treatment plans to give the very best option.

What is Thoracolumbar Scoliosis?

Thoracolumbar scoliosis refers to a sideways curvature occurring in the transition area between the thoracic and lumbar spine. These curves are often visually noticeable, causing asymmetry and movement between the waist and ribs.
Diagnosis of thoracolumbar scoliosis is typically done through X-rays, which reveal the severity, age of the patient, curve type, and location. While X-rays provide valuable information, additional tests may be necessary to rule out underlying neuromuscular conditions that could contribute to scoliosis development.

If you have been diagnosed with thoracolumbar scoliosis, understanding the specifics of your condition is crucial. With its characteristic asymmetry and potential for a positive response to conservative treatment, seeking proactive care is highly recommended.

Check out Dr. Tony Nalda’s podcast to gain a deeper understanding of scoliosis and explore potential avenues for treatment and care.

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Dr. Tony Nalda

DOCTOR OF CHIROPRACTIC

Severe migraines as a young teen introduced Dr. Nalda to chiropractic care. After experiencing life changing results, he set his sights on helping others who face debilitating illness through providing more natural approaches.

After receiving an undergraduate degree in psychology and his Doctorate of Chiropractic from Life University, Dr. Nalda settled in Celebration, Florida and proceeded to build one of Central Florida’s most successful chiropractic clinics.

His experience with patients suffering from scoliosis, and the confusion and frustration they faced, led him to seek a specialty in scoliosis care. In 2006 he completed his Intensive Care Certification from CLEAR Institute, a leading scoliosis educational and certification center.

About Dr. Tony Nalda

Dr. Tony Nalda is the Founder of Scoliosis Reduction Center, a leading expert in chiropractic care & conservative scoliosis treatment. He has published 2 books, is a podcast host, a conference speaker.