Scoliosis is differentiated as functional or structural. It is functional when the curvature is caused by contracted muscles and the spine itself is intact. It is structural when the spinal bones themselves are involved. Functional scoliosis is easier to treat but even structural scoliosis is treatable because bones are in a continual process of renewal.

Case 1: Structural Scoliosis
Twenty-three year old female with a very mild lateral curve to the left in the thoracic region but a sharp curve to the right at L3 so sudden and drastic as though that vertebra was notched out of place. Patient was treated once every three weeks with a combination of acupuncture and moxibustion. The curvature in her lower back noticeably relaxed with three treatments. At the fourth the scoliosis had become a gentle curve. Patient is continuing her treatments and a complete resolution of the scoliosis is expected.

Case 2: Functional Scoliosis
Twenty-seven year old female complained of pain on right upper back that made breathing difficult. Examination of her spine showed a lateral curve to the right from T4-T7, the widest part deviated almost two inches from the centerline. Musculature to the right was tense and hard. Her whole ribcage shifted laterally causing flatback on the left. Acupuncture was given together with Tuina manipulation. The muscles relaxed and released their pull on the spine. At the end of the treatment session her spine was almost completely straight and she could breathe comfortably. Patient continues to receive treatment once a week for other problems.