Scoliosis

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Scoliosis is a term used to describe any abnormal, sideways curvature of the spine.  It is characterized by an S- or C-shaped curve in the spine.  It’s generally seen in childhood, but it can also come about in adulthood.  Some curves are deeper than others.  Mild scoliosis (less than 20 degrees) is often managed simple with exercise, medical observation, and scoliosis specific physical therapy.    Moderate scoliosis (20-40 degrees) often requires bracing to stop the spine from curving further.  Severe scoliosis usually needs to be corrected with spinal surgery.

 

 

 

Approximately 2-3 million people have scoliosis and there is no cure for the problem. In most cases (approximately 80%), the scoliosis is idiopathic in nature meaning there is no apparent cause. It affects all age groups and males as often as females. Infantile scoliosis affects children at birth. Juvenile scoliosis affects children between age 4 and puberty, adolescent scoliosis affects kids from puberty to adulthood, and there is also a classification of adult onset scoliosis. Female scoliosis patients are more likely to experience a progression of the disease. Symptoms may include pain and fatigue and in severe cases difficulty with breathing, digestion, and walking.

 

The spine can be thought of as building blocks.  The long side of the block represents lengthening (stretching) of your muscles.  The short side of the block illustrates shortening (contracting) of your muscles.  Both affect your ability to use your back muscles appropriately for posture and functional activities.  Therefore, it is important to attain and maintain a straight spine in order for your muscles to be used at their full functional level.  To do so, you must become more aware of your body, especially your spine, in order to use self-correction to change your spine’s position during daily activities.

 

How Physical Therapy Helps

Treatment typically consists of bracing for moderate curves and surgery for severe curves. Although there is little medical literature to prove the effectiveness of exercise for correction/improvement of a scoliosis curve, physical therapists are your best choice if you are looking for a customized exercise program for your scoliosis. Recommended exercises can decrease pain, stretch tight muscles, and strengthen the core spine/abdominal muscles.