Conversation: The conversation between human and AI assistant.
[|Human|] My son has scoliosis (thoracic) and arthritis. He is 28 years old. I wonder why the curvature was not noticed when he was younger because he participated in a lot of sports. However, he is now wondering if accupuncture will work? He is no longer on pain medications, as he does not like the way they made him feel.
[|AI|]  Hello, Acupuncture is a symptomatic therapy and will reduce pain for some time. Here the major issue is with the curvature of the spine which is lateral in nature and leading to scoliosis.  Due to scoliosis, there will be nerve root entrapment and muscle spasms. I will advise doing exercise for stretching and strengthening the muscles involved on the side.  Usually, we need exercise and postural correction for most times. In case the curvature is increased then might need an MRI and other treatments options to be considered.  Due to scoliosis he may even have reduced the lung capacity and needs attention for the same as well. Hope I have answered your query. Let me know if I can assist you further. Take care Jay In Chat Doctor.