Scoliosis

Q It was found in elementary school—isn't it too late to start treatment now?

A. As long as the growth plates are open, treatment effects can be expected. Upper elementary students still have growth period remaining, so it is important to start now.

Q Can a child who dislikes exercise still receive scoliosis treatment?

A. Chuna therapy and tonic herbs can proceed even if the child does not exercise directly. However, a simple stretching habit at home enhances the treatment effect.

Q Can a child who has growing pains or back pain along with scoliosis be treated together?

A. Growing pains and back pain often arise from the same root—kidney qi deficiency and weak bones and muscles—so they can be treated simultaneously.

Q Are there postures and habits a child with scoliosis should be careful about in daily life?

A. Sitting tilted to one side, carrying a heavy bag on one side, and using a smartphone while lying on the stomach are the main habits to avoid.

Q In Dong-gu, Incheon, where and how should a child's scoliosis be managed?

A. The key is early detection during the growth period and combining Chuna with tonic herbs. It is best to have regular check-ups at a nearby Korean medicine clinic specializing in pediatrics.

Q Is Chuna therapy safe for a growing child?

A. Pediatric Chuna is done in a gentler and more flexible way than for adults, so it is safe. When performed by an experienced Korean medicine doctor, side effects are very rare.

Q Can a child's scoliosis be managed with Korean medicine alone, without surgery?

A. Mild curves of 10–25 degrees can be managed with Chuna and tonic herbs without surgery. Above 25 degrees, we also recommend orthopedic co-treatment.

Q I'm receiving orthopedic treatment for scoliosis—can I take tonic herbal medicine at the same time?

A. Tonic herbs can be combined with conservative treatments such as bracing and physical therapy. Around surgery, it is safest to discuss the timing of medication with your doctor.

Q How much can scoliosis improve with treatment?

A. When found early during the growth period, the effect on suppressing progression is significant, and mild 10–20 degree curves can sometimes decrease in angle. The later it is found, the more the focus shifts from correction to suppressing progression.

Q Once growth is finished, does scoliosis stop progressing?

A. Once the growth plates close, the rate of progression drops sharply, but curves of 30 degrees or more can progress slowly even into adulthood.

Q Why does scoliosis develop in children?

A. When kidney energy (qi) deficiency weakens the bones and muscles and postural imbalance accumulates, the spine begins to curve sideways during the growth period.

Q Does bad posture cause scoliosis?

A. Postural imbalance is an aggravating trigger for the curvature. However, the weaker a child's bones and muscles are, the more strongly posture affects them.

Q Are there foods that are good and foods to avoid for a child with scoliosis?

A. Foods rich in calcium and protein help support the bones and muscles. It is best to cut back on soft drinks and instant foods, as they interfere with calcium absorption.

Q How often does a child need to visit the clinic for scoliosis treatment?

A. Chuna therapy is done 1–2 times a week initially, then adjusted to once every 2 weeks once stable. Tonic herbs are prescribed 2–4 weeks at a time.

Q How long does the total course of scoliosis treatment take?

A. The principle is continuous management throughout the growth period. We recommend at least 3–6 months of intensive treatment followed by periodic maintenance until growth ends.

Q In what order does Korean medicine treatment for scoliosis proceed?

A. Stage 1 relaxes muscle tension and corrects posture, Stage 2 reinforces kidney qi deficiency and strengthens the bones and muscles, and Stage 3 is maintenance management until growth is complete.

Q Can scoliosis improve with Chuna therapy and tonic herbal medicine?

A. For early-to-moderate (10–30 degree) curvature, combining Chuna therapy with tonic herbs can be expected to suppress progression and reduce the angle.

Q I'm wearing a brace—is it more effective to receive Korean medicine treatment together?

A. Chuna and tonic herbs can be used alongside brace wear. Strengthening the bones and muscles can complement the effect of the brace.