What's the difference between STRUCTURAL vs FUNCTIONAL scoliosis?
There are various types of scoliosis, ranging from congenital scoliosis and adolescent idiopathic scoliosis to degenerative and syndromic scoliosis. And these types can generally be placed into two categories: 1) structural or 2) functional.
Do you know the difference? Here’s some information to help you better understand the two:
STRUCTURAL scoliosis (bone deep) is when there is an actual ‘structural’ / physical curve in the spine.
It develops as a result of unequal growth of the two sides of the vertebral bodies.
It typically appears during adolescence, the causes are generally not known (80% - idiopathic).
A structural curvature is a misalignment of the bones of the spine where the vertebrae are in a rotated position and the discs between the vertebrae become compressed, causing the vertebrae to become wedge-shaped.
In most structural scoliosis cases, another part of the spine curves towards the opposite side to compensate for the initial lateral curve. This compensating curve is called the functional curvature. This curve is usually smaller and helps the body stay upright rather than leaning completely into the structural curve.
FUNCTIONAL scoliosis (non-structural / muscular) is when the spine appears to be curved, but it’s actually a result of an irregularity elsewhere in the body, such as a difference in leg length, muscle imbalances of the back, or muscle spasms as the body naturally tries to maintain symmetry.
The apparent curve can be a result of poor posture and / or repeated movements on one side of the body, or carrying heavy objects on one side.
It’s the body’s way of compensating for other underlying problems.
It’s more common, less noticeable, and almost always reversible.
What type of scoliosis do you have? Mines 👉🏽 structural 👈🏽#scoliofitness #daywithviv #bodyawareness
Let me know in the comments below or send me a DM on Instagram @daywithviv. Looking forward to hearing your scoliosis story!