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Scoliosis in Shelby, NC

Scoliosis is a sideways curvature of the spine that can develop during childhood, adolescence, or later in life due to injury or degeneration. Depending on the severity, it can lead to postural changes, muscle tension, limited mobility, and chronic discomfort that affects daily life.

At Lopez Chiropractic in Shelby, NC, we take a personalized, whole-body approach to scoliosis care. Dr. Luis Lopez uses in-house digital X-rays and full-spine assessments to evaluate how scoliosis is affecting your body—and creates a care plan focused on relieving tension, improving balance, and supporting long-term spinal health.

Whether your scoliosis is newly diagnosed or something you’ve been managing for years, we’re here to help you move more freely, feel more supported, and stay active on your terms.

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Understanding Scoliosis in Shelby, NC

Scoliosis is a condition where the spine curves sideways, often forming an “S” or “C” shape. While mild cases may not cause pain right away, more pronounced curves can lead to muscular imbalances, postural changes, and pressure on the nerves or internal organs over time.

There are several types of scoliosis, including:

  • Idiopathic scoliosis – the most common type, often appearing during adolescence

  • Degenerative scoliosis – caused by spinal wear and tear in adulthood

  • Congenital scoliosis – present at birth due to spinal malformations

  • Functional scoliosis – caused by muscle imbalance, leg length difference, or poor posture

At Lopez Chiropractic in Shelby, NC, Dr. Luis Lopez evaluates the full spine—not just the curve—so we can understand how scoliosis is affecting your movement, alignment, and nervous system function as a whole.

Symptoms of Scoliosis in Shelby, NC

Scoliosis symptoms can vary depending on the degree and location of the spinal curve. Some people experience only mild stiffness or uneven posture, while others develop chronic pain or mobility issues over time.

  • Uneven shoulders or hips

  • One shoulder blade that appears more prominent

  • Leaning to one side when standing or walking

  • Muscle tightness in the back or between the shoulder blades

  • Lower back pain or discomfort after standing or sitting

  • Reduced flexibility or spinal range of motion

  • Fatigue or soreness after physical activity

  • Difficulty breathing (in severe cases)

Common signs and symptoms of scoliosis include:

Even if scoliosis isn’t causing pain now, it may still be affecting your posture and spinal function. Early intervention can help reduce strain on the body and slow the progression of the curve.

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What Causes Scoliosis?

Scoliosis has several potential causes, depending on the type and age of onset. In many cases, especially in adolescents, the cause is unknown. In adults, scoliosis often develops gradually due to wear and tear on the spine or as a result of compensation from other structural imbalances.

Common causes and contributing factors include:

• Idiopathic scoliosis – no known cause; often begins during adolescence

• Degenerative scoliosis – age-related changes in spinal discs and joints

• Congenital scoliosis – caused by vertebral malformations present at birth

• Neuromuscular conditions – such as cerebral palsy or muscular dystrophy

• Leg length discrepancies or pelvic imbalances

• Chronic poor posture or spinal misalignment

• Injuries or previous spinal trauma

At Lopez Chiropractic in Shelby, NC, Dr. Luis Lopez looks beyond the curve itself—evaluating how spinal alignment, joint motion, and muscular balance may be contributing to your scoliosis symptoms. This whole-body approach helps us build a care plan that supports long-term spinal health and function.

How Chiropractic Care Can Help with Scoliosis in Shelby, NC

While chiropractic care doesn’t “straighten” the spine in scoliosis cases, it can play an important role in reducing pain, improving posture, and helping the spine function at its best. By relieving pressure on joints and nerves, chiropractic helps the body move more freely—without relying on medication or invasive procedures.

At Lopez Chiropractic in Shelby, NC, Dr. Luis Lopez focuses on:

  • Improving spinal alignment and mobility

  • Reducing muscular tension and imbalances

  • Relieving pressure on irritated nerves

  • Supporting better posture and body mechanics

  • Helping prevent the curve from worsening over time

Every scoliosis case is unique, and Dr. Lopez takes the time to assess how your spinal curve affects your overall function. With regular chiropractic care, many patients experience less discomfort, greater flexibility, and improved quality of life.

At Lopez Chiropractic, we take a personalized, full-body approach to scoliosis care. Rather than focusing only on the curve, Dr. Luis Lopez evaluates how scoliosis affects your entire spine, posture, and nervous system—so your care plan truly fits your needs.

Our Approach at Lopez Chiropractic in Shelby, NC

Dr. Lopez will take time to understand when your scoliosis was diagnosed, how it has progressed, and how it’s affecting your daily life, posture, and comfort.

Detailed Health History

We perform hands-on movement tests and postural evaluations to identify imbalances, joint restrictions, and areas of spinal compensation.

Full-Spine Assessment

Our advanced imaging system allows us to measure your spinal curve, assess alignment, and track progress over time with precision.

In-House Digital X-Rays

We proudly serve the Shelby community en inglés y español, ensuring every patient feels heard, supported, and informed throughout their care.

Bilingual Support

Once we understand how scoliosis is affecting your spine and nervous system, Dr. Lopez will build a care plan tailored to your structure, symptoms, and long-term goals.

Therapies We May Recommend

At Lopez Chiropractic, we use a combination of therapies to support spinal health and reduce the impact of scoliosis. These therapies are designed to relieve tension, improve joint mobility, and help your spine function more efficiently—without forcing or overcorrecting the curve.

Your personalized care plan may include:

  • Chiropractic Adjustments: Gently realign spinal joints to improve balance, mobility, and nervous system function—always tailored to your curvature and comfort level.

  • Graston Technique: Release tight muscles and soft tissue adhesions that may develop from long-term postural compensation or muscular imbalance.

  • Mechanical Traction: Gently stretch the spine to reduce joint pressure, improve flexibility, and help the body move more symmetrically.

  • Electric Stimulation Therapy (E-Stim): Relax overworked muscles and support postural balance by stimulating deep, supportive tissues.

  • Heat or Ice Therapy: Soothe areas of inflammation and tension caused by uneven spinal loading or repetitive strain.

  • Therapeutic Exercises: Strengthen the muscles that support your spine and improve body awareness, posture, and symmetry in daily movement.

These therapies are chosen based on what’s happening in your spine—not just the appearance of the curve—so your care plan reflects your real needs.

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Treatment at Lopez Chiropractic in Shelby, NC

Scoliosis can affect people at any age. While many cases begin during adolescence, others develop later in life due to wear and tear on the spine or as a result of other medical conditions. In most cases, scoliosis progresses gradually—sometimes without obvious symptoms until the curve becomes more pronounced.

Who Gets Scoliosis in Shelby, NC

• Children and teens, especially during growth spurts

• Adults over 50, due to spinal degeneration and disc changes

• Individuals with a family history of scoliosis

• People with poor posture or muscle imbalances

• Those recovering from spinal injuries or surgery

• Patients with uneven shoulders, hips, or leg length differences

Scoliosis is most commonly seen in:

At Lopez Chiropractic in Shelby, NC, we work with both adolescents and adults to manage scoliosis conservatively—helping reduce symptoms and improve quality of life without surgery or bracing.

Long-Term Benefits of Chiropractic for Scoliosis in Shelby, NC

While chiropractic care doesn’t reverse spinal curvature, it can help reduce symptoms, slow progression, and improve your overall spinal function. When the spine is better aligned and nerve function is supported, many patients with scoliosis find it easier to stay active, flexible, and comfortable in daily life.

With consistent care, patients may experience:

  • Reduced muscle tension and joint stiffness

  • Less nerve irritation or referred pain

  • Improved posture and spinal mobility

  • Better balance and coordination

  • Fewer flare-ups or activity limitations

  • Reduced need for pain medications

  • A more stable and manageable spinal condition over time

At Lopez Chiropractic in Shelby, NC, Dr. Luis Lopez takes a proactive, personalized approach to scoliosis care—helping you reduce discomfort and support long-term spinal health at every stage.

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Scoliosis FAQs

  • Chiropractic care does not “fix” or reverse spinal curvature, but it can help manage the effects of scoliosis. By improving spinal alignment, reducing tension, and relieving nerve pressure, chiropractic care may reduce symptoms and support better movement.

  • Yes. Chiropractic care is gentle, non-invasive, and safe for all ages. For adolescents with idiopathic scoliosis, early intervention may help manage progression and improve overall function.

  • Yes. At Lopez Chiropractic in Shelby, NC, we use in-house digital X-rays to measure the curvature, assess spinal alignment, and guide your personalized care plan.

  • No. Dr. Lopez uses precise, low-force techniques that are carefully tailored to your spine and curvature pattern. The goal is to relieve pressure and support better balance—not force the spine into a position it can’t maintain.

  • Frequency depends on the severity of your scoliosis, your symptoms, and how your body responds to care. Dr. Lopez will recommend a schedule that fits your condition and adjusts it as needed over time.

Schedule Your Chiropractic Evaluation in Shelby, NC

If you’ve been diagnosed with scoliosis—or you suspect a spinal curve may be affecting your posture, comfort, or mobility—now is the time to get evaluated. At Lopez Chiropractic, Dr. Luis Lopez offers thorough assessments, including in-house digital X-rays, and personalized care designed to support your spine and reduce strain on your body.

Whether your curve is mild or more advanced, we’re here to help you manage your condition with safe, non-invasive care that puts your comfort and function first.

Call our Shelby office at (704) 419-3553 to schedule your chiropractic evaluation today.