Exercise for Scoliosis-Part 1
2 Mar
Scoliosis is an abnormal side to side curve in the spine.
Scoliosis is a side-to-side curve in the spine. When you look at the back, you can see evidence of an S shape, or a C shape. (There are different types.) The giveaways are: One shoulder or hip higher than the other and/or one rib that looks like a hump.
Most scoliosis is idiopathic, meaning they don’t know what causes it. The other 2 types are neuromuscular (caused by a disease such as polio) and congenital (you were born with it). You can see congenital scoliosis earlier than the idiopathic type. If your baby has congenital scoliosis, a new technique called scoliosis stapling may be worth looking into. But it’s reserved for very young children.
Scoliosis curves can range from mild (about 10-12 degrees), to so severe that it interrupts the lungs and heart. If a child’s curve grows rapidly or if the curve is over 50 degrees, it may be time for surgery. Of course, a licensed MD specializing in spine will be the best person to help you decide, as they have in depth knowledge on these things. I wouldn’t trust my child’s scoliosis to a chiropractor. Don’t get me wrong, chiropractors have their place – I go to one, and I couldn’t be happier with the results, but with a severe scoliosis, chiropractic treatment just hasn’t proven itself.
Most people who have scoliosis have the mild type. I have the mild type. I’ve had really good luck with exercises. Other than the Scroth Method, I am not aware of anything in the clinical realm that has the potential to actually reverse the curve and help the spine approach straight. But when the spine deforms like it does with a scoliosis, it often creates a situation where muscles on one side get super tight, and muscles on the other side get overstretched and weak. So for me, doing specialized exercises that target the curves has really helped to establish balance through my body. More specifics in future posts.
Source:
Scoliosis Research Foundation. Scoliosis Media Guide. Accessed Feb 2010. http://sites.google.com/site/wwwscoliosisorgawareness/scoliosis-media-community-guide
I used to have scoliosis when I was little. It was a scary experience, because everyone was telling me that I will look like a hunchback when I grow up. But I think I grew out of it.
I remember my parents used to take me to special place in my hometown in Russia where I would do special exercises and also get a specialized massage. I guess it all paid off. Back then, of course, I didn’t appreciate getting a massage as much as I do these days
I think this information is priceless for those with similar experience… And thank you for the opportunity to share my thoughts!
Hi, Svetlana. Thanks for sharing your experience. I have a mild scoliosis, and once I got involved with Pilates and some other mind-body fitness stuff, I was able to beat much of the pain. I think Russians have a very good handle on body therapies – from Olympics to ballet to massage! Glad you’re okay.