Edited by Dr. Giovanni Chetta
Myths about (idiopathic) scoliosis to dispel
On the basis of what has been described so far, it becomes possible to contradict various hypotheses commonly expressed regarding idiopathic scoliosis without, however, having ever had a true scientific basis on which to be based.
- After a certain age, you can't (or shouldn't) change your scoliosis (and posture) anymore . We are a "structuring function", neuro-biomechanically oscillating swirling, in dynamic equilibrium, between connective tissue and muscles. Bone is a malleable connective tissue (it is in continuous slow reworking according to the mechanical and chemical-physical stimuli it receives). In reality, the static posture does not exist, the articular hinges and myofascial tensions change moment by moment; margins of postural improvement and of the spinal situation are in reality always obtainable (as well as worsening).
- Beyond a certain degree of scoliosis, the rigid corset is indispensable. The incorrect functionality of the rotations on the transverse plane significantly hinders the achievement of the most important and physiological instinctive goal of man: the specific motion of maximum yield. Apart from considering this importance in a rehabilitation process, it is at least not very functional. It is therefore necessary to think of a new generation of slings capable of both correcting the spinal alignment on the frontal plane and allowing the indispensable freedom of movement on the transverse plane of the articular hinges.
- With a stiff torso it is possible to carry out sports activities . The blocking of rachid rotations on the transverse plane imposed by the rigid torso implies overload compensation on the hinges free from the "yoke" of the torso (joints of the pelvis and of the lower limbs in particular). This altered functionality involves a modification of the gravitational load distribution with consequent possible articular structural modification (alteration of the articular surfaces and of the capsulo-ligamentous state) and myofascial (retractions, fibrosis). This risk becomes all the higher the more intense from the point of view of the gravitational load, demanding from the point of view of the motor skills required and lasting over time, the physical activity carried out wearing a brace is.
- It is necessary to perform exercises to strengthen the paravertebral muscles and avoid exercises (and sports) that increase vertebral mobility . Motor coordination is actually more important than the structure and perfect symmetry of the body segments. The functional alteration and therefore its re-education is decisive. Control (proprioception) and correct range of mobility of the articular hinges represent the critical parameters. The objective must not be to block, fix but normalize the myofascial-skeletal system and re-educate proprioception and motor coordination.
- Orthotics and Bite have no influence on scoliosis . This would be plausible if we were a compression structure (like a column); in fact we know that this is not the case. In fact, we represent a structure of tensegrity where each part is connected with the whole from the microscopic to the macroscopic level (what is outside the cell is as important as what is inside and is inseparable from it). Foot and tongue represent the most influential organ-functional conformators, the first of the spine curves, the second of the cranial bones. The positioning in the space of the feet (single point of contact with the ground) and head (peripheral unit heavier and more distant from the ground) makes them strategic elements regarding the placement of all body segments in the upright position both from a mechanical and neurological point of view ( due to the importance of the relative proprioceptors and exteroceptors). These reasons are already sufficient to consider breech support and occlusal support in a "spinal and posture alteration in general." But even more this becomes indispensable in a "modern" society where habitats and styles of view contrast (probably too much) with nature. In similar life situations, the use and development of ergonomics becomes substantial.
- Radiographs, scolosiometer and Cobb's angle are the only tests, tools and parameters to define a scoliosis. We have seen that they actually have major limitations and that today it is possible to use alternatively different technologies and parameters (such as rasterstereography and related indices). X-rays, on the other hand, remain indispensable for vertebral and bone structural evaluation in general.
Other articles on "Idiopathic Scoliosis - Myths to Dispel"
- Importance of correct breech and occlusal supports
- Scoliosis - Causes and Consequences
- Scoliosis Diagnosis
- Prognosis of scoliosis
- Treatment of scoliosis
- Extra-Cellular Matrix - Structure and Functions
- Connective tissue and Connective fascia
- Connective Band - Features and Functions
- Posture and tensegrity
- Man's motion and the importance of breech support
- Clinical case of Scoliosis and Therapeutic Protocol
- Treatment Results Clinical Case Scoliosis
- Scoliosis as a natural attitude - Bibliography
