OPEN: Mon 8-8 Tue-Wed-Thur 8:30-8 Fri-8-8 Sat 8:30-1
Tel: (01793) 887801

Does your child complain of growing pains? There are many causes of 'growing pains', especially scoliosis. Scoliosis refers to curvature of the spine and is often mistaken for growing pains. Untreated scoliosis can often give rise to problems in later life, such as pain and deformity. However early detection and treatment can prevent long-term effects. When could your child have scoliosis? Scoliosis can develop during infancy or in adolescence. In infants, 90% of scoliosis of no known cause, spontaneously disappears in the first year, but if it develops after 3 years it will most likely remain. Ages 7 to 10 are the least risk when the spine is growing at a much slower rate compared to the 10 to 15 years age group. Girls are at greater risk as they can inherit it from their fathers.

What you should do to help? Scoliosis hasn't any warning signs, which again emphasizes the importance of 6-monthly chiropractic screenings during the susceptible years. However, you may notice that your child's skirt or trouser length is hanging unevenly. Buy your child a rucksack! Avoid heavy bags that may be carried on one shoulder; discourage children from playing board games on the floor; and ration their times for playing 'game-boys' and watching television. Don't allow your children to sleep on too soft a bed and encourage lots of physical activities!