Scoliosis Treatment in Murrieta, CA
Being told you or your child has scoliosis can feel confusing and overwhelming. Many patients come to our office with questions about what it means, whether it will worsen, and what can be done without surgery.
Dr. Phillip Vournazos, D.C., has treated many patients with scoliosis in Murrieta, working with both children and adults to improve comfort, posture, and spinal function. At California Oaks Chiropractic, care focuses on understanding each curve, reducing strain on the spine, and supporting healthy movement over time.
Your first visit is focused on listening, education, and creating a clear plan that fits your condition and long-term goals.
Call (951) 698-2511 to book an appointment.
What Is Scoliosis?
Scoliosis is a bend or curve in the spine, whereas a healthy spine would be completely vertical or straight. The exact origin of the curve is often hard to trace. In the beginning, it may be just a small bend caused by a simple misalignment of single vertebrae.
Over time, the body will begin to compensate by building muscle that continues to pull the spine into lateral curves to ensure the head remains level.
Common Causes of Scoliosis
Scoliosis can occur because of multiple reasons, including:
- postural issues
- degenerative diseases
- traumatic accidents
While many cases of scoliosis begin during rapid developmental spurts, particularly in young children aged 10-12, the condition can also develop in older adults.
In older people, scoliosis is often caused by degenerative disorders such as osteoporosis.
Symptoms of Scoliosis
Most people do not know they have scoliosis. Common symptoms may include:
- spine visibly bending to one side
- uneven shoulders or pelvis
- changes in posture
- muscle tightness around the spine
Understanding the Types of Scoliosis
It is worth noting that scoliosis comes in two forms:
- Structural
- Functional
Structural scoliosis is a condition you are born with and is usually only addressed through surgical intervention.
Functional scoliosis develops over time or as a result of a traumatic event. Since functional scoliosis is caused by outside factors, it can absolutely be changed and sometimes fully corrected. It may take longer to correct than it did to develop, but it is reversible.
How Scoliosis Is Diagnosed
Parents or someone close to the person with scoliosis are often the first to notice it, as the shoulders and pelvis no longer appear level. Most people, however, do not know they have it.
At California Oaks Chiropractic, a physical examination is first performed to assess gait. We use visual and manual exams to evaluate spinal curvature. An Adams Position Test, which requires the patient to bend forward as far as possible, can indicate whether an issue is present. If a noticeable curvature is found, an X-ray is used to determine the extent of the scoliosis and confirm the diagnosis.
Once scoliosis is identified, a full health history is completed to identify any factors that may be contributing to the condition. This assessment helps determine the appropriate treatment for each case.
Our Approach to Scoliosis Treatment
Treatment typically includes a minimum of 24 chiropractic visits.
Dr. Phillip will perform specific spinal adjustments to address the body’s compensations and assist in the restoration process.
We also do about 10 massage sessions, usually once a week, to treat the surrounding muscles. This is followed by a strengthening protocol and then maintenance care.
Scoliosis Patient Case Study
Correction of Severe Post-Accident Scoliosis Through Chiropractic Care
Patient Information: A male patient presented following a car accident.
Symptoms: His spine was bending to the left, and the scoliosis was described as pretty severe.
Diagnosis: The scoliosis developed as a result of a car accident, which caused a significant biomechanical change in the spine.
Treatments: He went through the standard treatment protocol, which included chiropractic care, massage therapy, a strengthening protocol, and maintenance care. Treatment lasted approximately three months.
Outcome: After three months of treatment, a repeated X-ray showed his spine was straight. Unfortunately, he was involved in another car accident about three weeks later, which caused the curve to go in the opposite direction. This showed that the spine can change significantly, whether through treatment or trauma, and the X-ray images confirmed how much his spine had changed between the two events.
Scoliosis Patient Testimonials and Reviews
Jasmine K Saleh
I was in need of a serious adjustment & Dr. K and his staff were absolutely wonderful to work with. They took me in the same day I called, within 10 min I was booked and, in the office...
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Denise
Just WOW! Everyone at California Oaks Chiropractic in Murrieta was just professional and very nice. I felt immediately comfortable. Dr. K was very easy to talk to and made me feel at ease...
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Abby Ngo
I had a great experience with Dr. K. This is top-notch chiropractic care! From the moment I walked in, I felt welcomed, listened to, and well taken care of. Dr. K combines strong knowledge...
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Rick Scherer
My family and I have been seeing Dr. K for over 20 years, and I can't imagine going anywhere else. From the moment you walk in, you're treated like family. The office staff is incredibly friendly...
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Sandra Guzman
If you are looking for a chiropractor with a lot of knowledge, friendly staff who feels like family, and an overall welcoming environment, this is your place! Dr. K has been vital in helping my husband and I...
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Lorretta Marcum
This morning I was lucky enough to see a Daphne! Oh my heavens do I feel 1000 x better!! Then I saw Dr. Chris for an adjustment and boy does he know his stuff got rid of my sciatica pain instantly...
Read on GoogleBook an Appointment for Scoliosis Treatment in Murrieta
Call (951) 698-2511 or book online using the booking tool below.
FAQs About Scoliosis Treatment
Can scoliosis be corrected without surgery?
Many mild-to-moderate cases can be managed conservatively. Scoliosis, which develops over time or from a traumatic event, can be changed and sometimes fully corrected. Chiropractic care focuses on spinal balance, comfort, and function rather than forceful correction.
Does chiropractic care stop scoliosis progression?
Chiropractic care helps support spinal movement and reduce stress. Progression depends on age, curve type, and growth factors.
Do I need X-rays before starting treatment?
Yes. Before starting treatment, we perform palpation, orthopedic exams, and X-ray imaging. These steps confirm the diagnosis and help us understand the extent of the curve before creating a treatment plan.
When should you seek treatment for scoliosis?
You should seek treatment as soon as you notice uneven shoulders, a visible spinal curve, or postural changes. Early evaluation helps identify whether the scoliosis is structural or functional and allows treatment to begin before the curve progresses further.
How long does scoliosis treatment take?
Treatment includes a minimum of 24 chiropractic visits and about 10 massage sessions, done once a week, to treat the surrounding muscles. This is followed by a strengthening protocol and maintenance care. The total duration depends on the severity of the curve and how the body responds to treatment.
Is chiropractic treatment for scoliosis painful?
Chiropractic treatment for scoliosis is generally gentle and non-invasive. Treatment is adapted to the severity of the curve and the patient’s comfort level. Some muscle soreness may occur in the early stages as the spine and surrounding tissues begin to respond to care.
What are the long-term effects of ignoring scoliosis?
If scoliosis and its cause go unchecked, it can lead to severe, long-term consequences. Scoliosis is associated with back, neck, shoulder, and buttocks pain.
It can lead to recurring injuries and has been linked to sciatica. In severe cases, it can cause diminished lung and heart capacity, painful menstruation, and physical disability.
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