Scoliosis Treatment with Dr. Tony Nalda Dr. Tony Nalda

In today's special episode to celebrate the 100th episode of this podcast, Shawn Manaher interviews Dr. Tony Nalda with questions directly submitted from readers of his blog and listeners of his podcast!



You're in for a treat!

Patients diagnosed with scoliosis often hear terms like the C curve or the S curve, leaving them curious about the implications. In this podcast, Dr. Tony Nalda sheds light on the specifics of S-shaped scoliosis, emphasizing the diagnostic parameters, classifications, and complexities involved in treating this unique curvature.



Understanding S-Shape Scoliosis

To comprehend an S-shaped curve, one must first understand scoliosis diagnosis. An unnatural sideways curvature of the spine, accompanied by a rotational twist, defines scoliosis. The Cobb angle, measuring the curvature, must be 10 degrees or greater for a diagnosis. Scoliosis can further be classified based on age, cause, severity, and location within the spine.



Types of Scoliosis Based on Severity and Location



Mild Scoliosis - 10-25 degrees

Moderate Scoliosis - 25-40 degrees

Severe Scoliosis - 40 degrees or plus

Very Severe Scoliosis - 80 degrees and greater



The most common S-shaped curve involves two curves of similar size, typically a lumbar and thoracic curve. These double-curve scoliosis, resembling an S, are more complex to treat than single-shaped C curves.



Challenges of S-Shaped Curves

S-shaped curves tend to be more symmetrical, presenting challenges in reduction compared to less symmetrical curves. The degree of difficulty increases as both curves not only bend in opposite directions but also rotate in opposite directions.



When treating S-shaped curves, it is important to seek a specialist due to their complexity. Flexible studies help identify the dominant curve, guiding more aggressive treatment for the stiffer curve.



Effective Treatment Approaches



Chiropractic Care - adjustments to correct spinal positions

Scoliosis-Specific Exercises - targeted exercises for stabilization

Corrective Bracing - customized braces for pushing forces to reduce scoliosis

Physical Therapy - passive therapies, reflexive exercises, and gait therapy



An integrated approach, including chiropractic care, exercises, and corrective bracing, ensures coordinated efforts for the most effective treatment. In-office therapies utilize traction, vibration, neuromuscular education, and reflexive exercises to strengthen and mobilize the spine.



Navigating S-shaped scoliosis requires a tailored approach, combining different therapeutic disciplines. At the Scoliosis Reduction Center, the focus is on achieving measurable results, improving spine health, and addressing symptoms associated with scoliosis.



To explore these approaches further, listen to Dr. Nalda's podcast for additional insights on managing and treating not only S-shaped curves but various scoliosis types.



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Scoliosis, a progressive structural spinal condition, raises questions about its potential impact on a person's height. In this episode, Dr. Tony Nalda, sheds light on the connection between scoliosis and height, understanding the nuances of spinal anatomy and the factors that contribute to height loss.



Understanding Scoliosis and Its Development

Scoliosis is characterized by unnatural sideways curvature of the spine, accompanied by a rotational component. For a diagnosis, the Cobb angle, measuring the degree of curvature, must be 10 degrees or greater. The condition is progressive and can affect various systems within the body, not just the spine.



The Relationship Between Spinal Anatomy and Height

The spine's natural curves aid in maintaining balance and stability. The symmetrical curves in the neck, mid-back, and lower back contribute to the body's ability to withstand compressive forces, allowing us to stand upright with good posture. Disruptions to these healthy curvatures can impact the distance between the pelvis and the skull, potentially affecting a person's standing height.

Measuring Scoliosis Severity



To gauge the severity of scoliosis, X-rays, particularly with the Cobb angle measurement, provide crucial insights. Different degrees of curvature categorize scoliosis:



Mild Scoliosis - 10-25 degrees

Moderate Scoliosis - 25-40 degrees

Severe Scoliosis - 40-80 degrees

Very Severe Scoliosis - Over 80 degrees



Impact on Height and Variable Factors

As scoliosis progresses, the potential for height loss increases. The larger the curvature, the more likely it is to affect the height of the trunk. However, scoliosis is highly variable, and its impact on height is influenced by various factors.



Different Types of Scoliosis and Their Effects



Idiopathic Scoliosis - Unknown cause, affecting individuals differently

Neuromuscular Cases - Variable impact on height due to different neuromuscular conditions

Congenital Scoliosis - Malformed bones from birth, potentially affecting height

Degenerative Scoliosis - Developing scoliosis in later stages of life, particularly in the lumbar spine

Traumatic Scoliosis - Resulting from trauma, contributing to potential height loss



Regardless of the time of diagnosis, scoliosis can impact height, especially when left untreated. It is important to be proactive in treating scoliosis to minimize potential height loss. Treating smaller curves is less likely to affect height compared to severe curves. For those with existing severe curves, restoring height involves reducing the size of the curve, minimizing the impact on overall health and well-being.



Understanding the intricate relationship between scoliosis and height is crucial for those affected by this condition. To explore this topic further, tune in to Dr. Nalda's podcast for additional insights and information on customized treatment plans for scoliosis.



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When it comes to the spine, most of us envision it as a straight structure. However, the truth is that the spine is designed with intentional curves to enhance its strength and flexibility. In this podcast, Dr. Tony Nalda explores the normal curvatures of the spine, the types of curves, and what happens when these curves deviate from the norm.



Understanding Spinal Curvatures

The spine's natural design includes curves that contribute to its resilience and ability to absorb and distribute stress during movement and compression. In the side view or sagittal alignment, the spine should appear as an elegant S curve, extending from the neck through the lower back.



The two different types of curves are:



Lordosis - the forward bend of the spine, either in the cervical or lumbar spine

Kyphosis - The backward bend of the spine, typically occurring in the middle part of the spine or thoracic spine



These curves play a crucial role in maintaining the spine's biomechanical function.



Normal Ranges for Curvatures

Each section of the spine has its unique curvature, and it's essential to stay within the normal range to ensure proper biomechanics.



The ideal curvature measurements are:



Cervical Lordosis - ideal range around 40 degrees, with a normal range between 20 degrees and 40 degrees

Lumbar Lordosis - Ideal range around 40 degrees, with a normal range between 30 degrees and 60 degrees

Thoracic Kyphosis - Normal range around 40 degrees, with variations between 20 degrees and 45 degrees



The Impact of Abnormal Curvatures

When the spine deviates from these normal ranges, it can lead to various issues, including adult spinal deformity. This condition arises when the spine loses its natural range and biomechanics, resulting in disruptions that can lead to future complications as we age.



Scoliosis: A Three-Dimensional Problem

An unnatural sideways curvature of the spine, known as scoliosis, presents a three-dimensional challenge. Scoliosis is identified when the curvature exceeds 10 degrees, accompanied by rotation into the concavities. Maintaining the spine's alignment from both the front and side views becomes crucial to prevent complications like spinal degeneration and arthritis.



To address these concerns, Dr. Nalda and his team at the Scoliosis Reduction Center offer proactive treatment models. Their goal is to restore the spine's normal curvatures and remove abnormal curvatures, ensuring natural function is preserved as the body ages. This proactive approach aims to reduce the risk of conditions like adult spinal deformity.



Understanding the normal and abnormal curvatures of the spine is vital for maintaining overall spinal health. If you want to delve deeper into this topic, tune in to Dr. Nalda's podcast for more valuable insights into spinal health and alternative treatments.



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When you hear the term "degenerative disc disease," it might sound like a severe condition but Dr. Tony Nalda simplifies it for us, explaining that it's not a disease you catch; it's more like wear and tear due to your spine being out of alignment.



The Basics of Spinal Structure

Your spine has 24 vertebrae stacked on top of each other, each separated by something called intervertebral discs. These discs act like spacers, providing flexibility, cushioning, and maintaining the spine's natural alignment. They have a tough outer layer called the annulus and a soft gel-like interior known as the nucleus.



Understanding Degeneration

Degenerative disc disease happens when the spine shifts out of alignment, putting abnormal pressure on one disc. This causes that specific disc to degenerate faster than usual. You can compare it to a car with misaligned tires – you wouldn't say the tire has a disease, but rather the car needs realignment to prevent further wear.



Symptoms and Development and Treatment

The common symptoms include back or neck pain, depending on where the degeneration occurs. The process involves disc desiccation, a loss of water within the disc, leading to a loss of height and neurological changes. Importantly, degeneration happens gradually over many years, and you often feel pain or discomfort after a long period of deterioration.



To treat degenerative disc disease, you need to tackle the root cause – alignment issues. It is important to address the alignment problems, often caused by injuries, spinal conditions, or lifestyle choices. Specific chiropractic care, therapy exercises, and rehabilitation can help realign the spine, preventing further degeneration.



Preserving spinal function involves positive lifestyle choices and proper ergonomics during daily activities. If you suspect or know you have disc degeneration, proactive treatment options, including evaluations and restoration of normal alignment, can be beneficial.



Understanding degenerative disc disease is the first step to effective treatment. For personalized insights and treatment options, listen to Dr. Nalda's podcast.

Wondering how scoliosis impacts your body? Let Dr. Tony Nalda break it down for you.



Scoliosis is when your spine curves sideways unnaturally, and it can happen in your lower back, upper back, or neck. It can be measured and if it’s 10 degrees or more, you've got scoliosis.



Your Spine's Role

Think of your spine as your body's support beam – it connects your hips, ribs, arms, and more. It helps you move comfortably and, importantly, shields your spinal cord, which acts like a master controller for your body.



What You See and What You Don't

Scoliosis doesn't just show up in your posture; it goes deeper. It can mess with your nerves and muscles, causing pain, especially in adulthood. Your muscles might struggle to keep everything in balance, leading to issues in your hips, knees, and feet.



Understanding Progression

Scoliosis can get worse over time, and there's a way to measure it called the Cobb angle. From mild to severe, each stage brings different problems. The trick? Don't wait – be proactive. Get your spine checked regularly to catch and treat any issues early on.



In conclusion, Scoliosis is a journey, and understanding it is key. Listen to Dr. Tony Nalda’s podcast for insights that can help you take control of your scoliosis.



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