How is it caused?

• Muscle Imbalance: Tight or overactive muscles on one side of the body can pull the spine out of its natural alignment, causing it to curve temporarily.
• Leg Length Discrepancy: A difference in leg length can tilt the pelvis, leading to a compensatory curve in the spine as the body tries to maintain balance.
• Poor Posture: Consistently poor posture, especially during growth phases in adolescents, can contribute to the development of a temporary spinal curve.
• Pain or Injury: Pain, particularly in the lower back or hip, can cause a person to favor one side of the body, leading to a compensatory curve in the spine.

Symptoms

The symptoms of functional scoliosis can vary depending on the severity and cause of the curve. Common symptoms include:

• Visible Curve in the Spine: A noticeable curve in the spine when standing, which may straighten when lying down.
• Uneven Shoulders or Hips: One shoulder or hip may appear higher than the other due to the curvature.
• Back Pain: Muscle tension or discomfort, typically on one side of the back.
• Postural Changes: The spine may lean to one side, leading to an asymmetrical appearance.

How is it treated?

Physiotherapy is highly effective in managing and correcting functional scoliosis. The primary focus of physiotherapy is to identify and address the root cause of the curvature using exercise, manual therapy and dry needling

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