Scoliosis, a sideways curve of the spine, can show up in childhood or develop later in life, and it raises a lot of questions. At The Spine and Wellness Center in Coral Springs, Dr. Jared Cohen, DC helps families and adults across Coral Springs and Parkland understand scoliosis and explore conservative options that support comfortable, functional movement.

Medically reviewed by Dr. Jared Cohen, DC · Updated June 2026

What is scoliosis?

Scoliosis is an abnormal sideways curvature of the spine, often shaped like a C or an S when viewed from behind. A healthy spine has front-to-back curves, but it should look straight from the back. Scoliosis introduces a side-to-side curve along with some rotation of the vertebrae.

Curves are measured by their angle, and the size of the curve helps guide how closely it should be watched and what management makes sense. Many curves are mild and simply monitored, while larger ones call for more active attention.

Types of scoliosis

• Idiopathic: the most common type, with no single known cause, often appearing during adolescent growth
• Congenital: present at birth due to differences in spine development
• Neuromuscular: related to conditions affecting muscles and nerves
• Degenerative: developing in adults as the spine ages and discs and joints change

Signs of scoliosis in children and teens

In growing kids, scoliosis is often painless, which is why visible signs matter so much. Screening during growth spurts is important because curves can change quickly during this time.

• Uneven shoulders or shoulder blades
• One hip appearing higher than the other
• A visible curve or lean to one side
• Clothing that hangs unevenly
• A rib hump when bending forward at the waist

Signs of scoliosis in adults

Adult scoliosis, whether longstanding or degenerative, more often comes with discomfort. Back pain, stiffness, muscle fatigue, and noticeable changes in posture or height are common. Some adults notice their balance or endurance for standing has changed.

Monitoring and conservative management

Management depends on the person’s age, the size and location of the curve, and whether it is progressing. For many people, especially with mild to moderate curves, conservative care focused on function, posture, and comfort is the centerpiece. Regular monitoring tracks whether a curve is stable or changing over time.

Our scoliosis treatment takes a conservative, non-invasive approach aimed at supporting mobility, easing discomfort, and helping the body move as well as possible. We are clear that chiropractic care does not straighten a structural curve, but many patients find it helps them feel and function better.

How chiropractic care supports function

Through gentle chiropractic care, Dr. Cohen works to keep the spine and surrounding joints moving well, which can reduce stiffness and muscular strain that often accompany a curve. Pairing this with posture correction and targeted exercise helps patients build the strength and body awareness that support daily activities.

Families and adults across Coral Springs, Parkland, Coconut Creek, and Boca Raton appreciate care that is honest about what conservative management can and cannot do, while focusing squarely on comfort, mobility, and quality of life.

When to seek an evaluation in Coral Springs

If you notice signs of scoliosis in your child, or you are an adult with back pain and posture changes, an evaluation is a smart next step. Serving Coral Springs, Parkland, Margate, and Sunrise since 2005, The Spine and Wellness Center offers same-day appointments and accepts most major insurance. Call (954) 341-2256 or visit 5675 Coral Ridge Drive to learn more.