an abnormal sideways curve of the spine, often diagnosed in late childhood or teens. In adults, degenerative scoliosis usually affects people 65 and older. Scoliosis is often accompanied by spinal stenosis, which may pinch the spinal nerves, causing pain and loss of function.

a chiropractic technique in which patients are positioned on their side, and a precise manipulative thrust is performed to realign the vertebrae and restore motion.

tissues that connect, support or surround structures and organs of the body. Includes muscles, tendons, ligaments, fascia (connective tissue beneath the skin), nerves, fat, blood vessels and synovial membranes (connective tissue between the synovial joint capsule and cavity).

a modular, linked series of 33 vertebrae (backbone) that provides support for the entire body, allowing standing, bending and twisting without harming the spinal cord. It is made up of four sections:

cervical (neck)
thoracic (chest)
lumbar (lower back)
sacral (pelvic)

a technique designed to reduce pressure on the spine using distraction. It is a non-surgical method that can alleviate pain from pressure on discs and spinal nerves and widen the spinal canal.

the structure between each vertebra, also called an intervertebral disc. Spinal discs are rounded and rubbery, with a thick outer layer (called the annulus) and a soft gel-like center (called the nucleus). Spinal discs are “shock absorbers” for the spine, cushioning the vertebrae.

a degenerative process that develops gradually, affecting the vertebral disc and facet joints. It can narrow the spinal canal and compress the spinal cord and nerve roots, causing pain and stiffness.

narrowing, as of the spinal canal, usually in the neck or lower back. Often due to a damaged spinal disc or overgrowth of bone (bone spurs). It may put pressure on nerves within the spine and cause pain.

also known as forward head posture or text neck. Overuse syndrome resulting from excessive strain on the spine from looking forward and downward at electronic devices, which shifts the center of gravity in the body. Can cause headaches, neck pain, shoulder and arm pain, and compromise breathing.

inflammation of a tendon, the thick, flexible fibrous cords that attach our muscles to our bones. Causes pain and tenderness near the joint. Common in the shoulder, elbow, wrist, knee and heel (Achilles tendon).