There are three main problems that can occur within your spine: cervical spine issues, thoracic spine issues, and lumbar spine issues. Here are the differences between these problems and how you can diagnose them. Common Problems of the Cervical Spine WHAT IS IT? The cervical spine is in your neck region and houses the spinal cord that sends messages from the brain to control all aspects of the body. It consists of seven bones which are separated…

A scoliosis diagnosis doesn’t mean kissing sports goodbye. In fact, it’s recommended that individuals with scoliosis stay active. Here’s how. Why It's Important to Stay Active with a Scoliosis Diagnosis Sports and specific exercise have proven to stop scoliosis progression and reduce curvature by retraining the brain to correct the spine’s posture. Sports… Strengthen core muscles that support the spine Keep the body nimble Prevent stiffness Suppo…

Several million people in the U.S. struggle with some sort of abnormal spinal curvature. Many of these individuals have a condition known as kyphosis. Kyphosis can plague both children and adults for a variety of reasons, potentially leading to visible deformity as well as causing pain and other symptoms. If kyphosis has affected you or someone you love, benefit from learning some basic facts about this condition. Take a look at the answers to th…

Scoliosis is a common condition in adults and teenagers. Most patients have mild curves that rarely if ever cause pain. For those who do experience pain, most benefit from conservative treatment. More severe curves (over 40-50 degrees, depending on your age) may warrant surgical intervention to improve quality of life. Whatever the severity, it's time to bust some myths concerning spinal curvature. 1. Myth: You Can't Have Children or will Suffer …

Adolescent scoliosis can be alarming to parents because curves progress quickly during growth spurts. Many parents feel guilty that they didn’t notice the curve sooner, and worry that the curve may continue to progress at a rapid rate. However, the ultimate level of curvature depends on how much more growing your child has to do. Once your child reaches their adult size, the curve will most likely stop growing, unless it was greater than 40-50 de…

Scoliosis refers to the lateral curve of a spine – instead of being straight; the spine has an 'S' or 'C' shape. It is also associated with rotation, which may result in the ribs being more prominent on one side, causing one shoulder to sit higher than the other, or a hunched appearance. There are several different causes of scoliosis. It can develop in utero when only one side of the vertebrae develops, or two are fused. Osteoporosis, tumors, in…

Dr. Michael Chang made a live appearance on Sonoran Living to discuss pediatric scoliosis. Pediatric scoliosis, which affects up to 3% of school age children, is a condition that causes the spine to curve or twist. Ideal for concerned parents and caregivers, Michael S. Chang, MD, in conjunction with Scottsdale Healthcare Shea Medical Center and Sonoran Spine, will host a free pediatric scoliosis lecture and screening from 10 a.m.-12:30 p.m., Sat.…