Scoliosis: Let’s Set the Record Straight
Chiropractor Cape Town | Scoliosis Explained Without Fear-Mongering
Scoliosis is a structural spinal curve – not a postural flaw or something you “correct” with 3 sessions a week and a long invoice. If you’ve ever been told your slight spinal curve or uneven shoulders mean you’re broken and need fixing – this blog is for you.
What Is Scoliosis?
Scoliosis is a 3D curvature of the spine, most often diagnosed during growth phases (childhood or adolescence). It’s measured using a Cobb angle on X-ray:
- Mild scoliosis: 10–20° Cobb angle
- Moderate: 20–40°
- Severe: 40°+
In most adults, scoliosis is structural and stable. It’s not “worsening” unless you have signs that justify further investigation. You don’t “correct” it — but you can train around it and manage symptoms, if needed.
Scare Tactics to Watch Out For
1. “Uneven Shoulders or Hips? Must Be Scoliosis!”
Not true. Human asymmetry is normal. Slight imbalances don’t always indicate scoliosis. Many people walk around with one shoulder slightly lower — it doesn’t mean you’re deformed or need treatment.
2. “Your Neck Pain Is Because of a Thoracic Curve”
This one’s common: a chiro tells a young, healthy patient with a mild thoracic curve that it’s the root of their neck pain. In most cases, that’s just bad science. Unless the curve is significant and symptomatic, it’s probably not related.
3. “We Can Correct Your Curve With Adjustments”
Nope. You cannot “correct” a structural scoliosis with spinal adjustments. That’s a sales pitch. Real care focuses on:
- Function
- Strength & control
- Symptom management
- Referral when appropriate (e.g. bracing, surgery)
What You Actually Need With Scoliosis
- ✅ A proper assessment — not a posture app screenshot
- ✅ Understanding the type and severity (structural vs functional)
- ✅ Honest advice, not a care plan tied to fear
- ✅ Ongoing monitoring if you’re young and still growing
If you’re functioning well, have minimal pain, and live an active life — you likely don’t need treatment. Just knowledge and guidance.
Scoliosis Image Examples
Here are two real-world X-ray examples so you can visualise the difference:
- Mild Scoliosis: 10–15° curve, common and rarely concerning
- Severe Scoliosis: 40°+, may need bracing or surgical consult
Looking for a Chiropractor in Cape Town Who Actually Keeps It Real?
At The Cape Town Chiro, we offer evidence-based care — no subluxation talk, no fear-driven treatment plans, and definitely no promises to “fix” scoliosis with clicks and cracks.
Whether you’re managing a known curve or just want clarity — we’ll assess, explain, and refer when necessary. No party tricks. No nonsense.
Book a Scoliosis Check Up Ask a Question
Need advice on scoliosis or got a confusing report? Pop in, or WhatsApp us directly — we’ll sort you out without the fluff.