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Pura Vida Chiropractic
Scheuermann's Disease treatment at Pura Vida Chiropractic San Antonio

Scheuermann's Disease

Scheuermann's disease — a structural thoracic kyphosis developing in adolescence — causes progressive rounding of the upper back, pain, and postural changes that respond well to chiropractic management.

What Is Scheuermann's Disease?

Scheuermann's disease is a growth disorder of the thoracic spine in which the anterior portions of multiple vertebral bodies grow less than the posterior portions, causing a wedge-shaped deformity and progressive kyphosis (rounding) of the thoracic spine. It typically becomes apparent during the adolescent growth spurt and is diagnosed when three or more consecutive thoracic vertebrae each show 5 or more degrees of anterior wedging. The resulting hyperkyphosis causes back pain, reduced thoracic mobility, and significant postural changes. Early chiropractic management can slow progression, relieve pain, and maintain as much thoracic mobility as possible.

Common Symptoms

  • Visible rounding of the upper back (hyperkyphosis)
  • Mid and upper back pain — often worse with activity
  • Reduced flexibility in thoracic extension
  • Fatigue in the back muscles from postural compensation
  • Tight hamstrings and anterior chest muscles
  • Adolescent onset, typically between ages 10–15

Common Causes & Contributing Factors

  • Abnormal endochondral ossification during the adolescent growth spurt
  • Genetic predisposition
  • Repetitive loading of the immature thoracic spine
  • Rapid growth relative to thoracic extensibility

The Pura Vida Protocol: Chiropractic Care for Scheuermann's Disease

Dr. Foss addresses Scheuermann's disease through SOT thoracic mobilization and extension-based corrections that work with the spine's available mobility without forcing restricted segments. Pelvic balancing reduces the compensatory lumbar hyperlordosis that accompanies thoracic kyphosis. Myofascial release targeting the tight anterior chest musculature and hip flexors helps address the secondary postural adaptations. For adolescents still growing, consistent chiropractic care combined with targeted home exercises provides the best outcome for managing progression and maintaining quality of life.

At Pura Vida Chiropractic, Dr. Foss uses Sacro-Occipital Technique (SOT) — a gentle, category-based system that addresses the spine, pelvis, and craniosacral rhythm as one integrated unit. SOT restores proper biomechanics, reduces nerve interference, and creates the neurological environment your body needs to heal itself.

Advanced Therapies We Combine With Chiropractic

For many patients, combining spinal correction with regenerative therapies produces faster and more lasting results. Depending on your condition, Dr. Foss may incorporate one or more of the following:

Class IV Laser Therapy

Photobiomodulation with a 10–15W Class IV laser delivers therapeutic light energy deep into tissue, reducing inflammation, blocking pain signals, and speeding healing at the cellular level.

Why Choose Pura Vida Chiropractic in San Antonio?

Pura Vida Chiropractic is a family-friendly, bilingual (English/Spanish) clinic serving San Antonio, TX. Dr. Dan Foss is trained in Sacro-Occipital Technique (SOT), a comprehensive chiropractic system that addresses the whole body — not just the area of pain. We combine hands-on spinal correction with the latest regenerative technology to help patients resolve the root cause of their condition rather than masking symptoms.

We are insurance friendly with most insurance plans including Blue Cross Blue Shield of Texas, UnitedHealthcare, Humana, Aetna, Ambetter, Oscar Health, Community First, and Molina Healthcare. New patient appointments are available promptly.

Ready to Get Relief from Scheuermann's Disease?

Schedule your new patient appointment with Dr. Foss at Pura Vida Chiropractic in San Antonio, TX. We'll identify the root cause and build a personalized care plan.

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