Chinese researchers studied two groups of patients with adolescent thoracic scoliosis and syringomyelia. Previous scoliosis researchers have suggested that an asymmetrical growth of the ribs and/or arms can have a causative impact on the development of scoliosis. In this present study, the researchers looked at the length of ribs attaching at or near the apex of the scoliosis curvature or spine curvature in patients with syringomyelia. They found no difference between these two groups, concluding that this asymmetry in rib length/growth is not a cause of scoliosis, but perhaps a compensation secondary to the scoliosis.

In light of this, more research needs to be done on how the existence of this asymmetry may or may not impact the results of various scoliosis treatment interventions.

Source: European Spine Journal

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Dr. Morningstar
Dr. Morningstar graduated in 2002 from Palmer College in Davenport. He then moved to Grand Blanc, MI and opened his first clinic, the Grand Blanc Spine Center. A year later, he opened his second clinic, the Anchor Bay Spine Center, in New Baltimore, MI. Both of these clinics have now become the Natural Wellness & Pain Relief Centers of Michigan, one of the first multidisciplinary clinics offering comprehensive chiropractic, traditional medicine, pain management, acupuncture, anti-aging medicine, and functional medicine services in Michigan. There he serves as the Director of Chiropractic Services. Dr. Morningstar provides comprehensive chiropractic rehabilitation and functional medicine strategies for complex spine and neurological disorders such as Scoliosis, ADHD, and Fibromyalgia/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome.
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