Applying the Functional Medicine Model to Idiopathic Scoliosis Management: A Narrative Mini-Review

Abstract

Addressing the underlying components of idiopathic scoliosis, including hormone and neurotransmitter imbalances, has the potential to improve scoliosis treatment outcomes. While the precise relationship between these imbalances and scoliosis development is not fully understood, emerging evidence suggests that correcting these imbalances may positively influence the progression and management of idiopathic scoliosis. The functional medicine model of patient evaluation and treatment may offer some insight as to more robustly, and possibly effectively, manage the entire idiopathic scoliosis condition. This review describes many of the known underlying abnormalities associated with idiopathic scoliosis and offers perspective and ideas for future research into comprehensive idiopathic scoliosis management.