Physical Therapy for Scoliosis

What is Scoliosis?

Scoliosis is a condition in which the spine is curved. It is most often diagnosed during the teenage years, but it can occur at any time. People with scoliosis commonly have uneven shoulders, and one hip higher than the other.

How Can I Treat Scoliosis?

If you think you may have scoliosis, talk to a spine specialist to confirm diagnosis, and determine a treatment plan. Although scoliosis can not be cured, a treatment plan can help prevent the condition from worsening and relieve symptoms.

Your doctor may recommend a brace, physical therapy, or surgery as treatment for scoliosis. Mild scoliosis may not need treatment at all.

How can Physical Therapy help Scoliosis?

Physical therapy can help improve mobility and relieve scoliosis symptoms. A physical therapist may come up with a treatment plan of strengthening and stretching exercises, activity modification, wearing a brace, and more!

Exercises to Help Your Scoliosis

Scoliosis is different for everyone. If you have scoliosis, it is important to seek the help of a spine doctor or physical therapist before trying at-home exercises. Doing certain exercises may worsen your condition depending on the severity and location of your scoliosis.

Cat Cow Pose

Start on your hands and knees. Breathe in while you lift your rib cage, making sure to round your neck and back. Breathe out and lower your chest to the floor. Repeat this 10 times.

Plank

Start by laying on the ground or a mat. Put your elbows or hands on the ground and slowly move your body off the ground. Make sure to keep your back and legs straight. Hold this pose for 10-30 seconds. You can also practice this pose with your knees on the ground.

Bird Dog Pose

Start with your hands and knees on the ground. Extend one arm out with the opposite leg out. Gently bring your elbow to your opposite knee while keep your back straight. Repeat this 10 times on both arms.

Tips to Relieve Scoliosis Symptoms

If you want to improve your scoliosis symptoms, talk to a doctor or physical therapist about your options. In the meantime, here are some general tips to follow to start living a more pain-free lifestyle:

Do:

• Seek help from a physical therapist
• Improve strength in your core, back, and neck
• Stretch often 
• Low-impact exercise
• Invest in a quality mattress
• Get ergonomic equipment at your job

Don’t:

• Lift heavy objects
• Wear high-heels or flat shoes
• Play impact sports
• Look down at your phone often
• Wait to get help

Schedule an Appointment with a Physical Therapist Near You

If you think you may have scoliosis, talk to your primary care provider or a spine specialist at Elite Sports Medicine + Orthopedics. They will work with you to determine a treatment plan and can refer you to one of our physical therapists here in Nashville or Franklin, TN!  

Author

Marina von Rutenberg Marina is the Marketing Coordinator for Elite Sports Medicine + Orthopedics. She has been writing and reviewing medical content since 2021. https://www.linkedin.com/in/marina-von-rutenberg/