Scoliosis is a relatively common condition affecting both children and adults. The prevalence is approximately 2% to 3% of the population. Scoliosis is far more prevalent in females than males, with females being over 10 times more likely to be diagnosed than males. Scoliosis can occur in the cervical, thoracic, and lumbar regions of the spine, but the lumbar spine is the most common for scoliosis.
Scoliosis Types
Scoliosis is a medical condition characterized by an abnormal curvature of the spine. There are many types of scoliosis. Idiopathic scoliosis is the most common type without known cause, and it typically develops during the growth spurt before puberty, around the ages of 10 to 15 years old. Congenital scoliosis is caused by a curvature that develops during fetal growth. Degenerative scoliosis is typically the result of deterioration of spinal discs and connective tissues because of aging and prolonged use. Lastly, neuromuscular scoliosis is associated with medical conditions such as spinal cord injuries, muscular dystrophy, and cerebral palsy.
The curvature of the spine is measured in degrees, and this is the method used to classify the severity of scoliosis:
- Curvature less than 20 degrees: mild scoliosis.
- Curvature between 20 and 40 degrees is moderate scoliosis.
- Curvature over 40 degrees is severe scoliosis.
If someone has a curvature of their spine over 70 degrees, there can be significant health complications. There are five types of scoliosis curves:
- Lumbar scoliosis
- S-curve or double major scoliosis
- Cervical scoliosis
- Thoracolumbar scoliosis
- Reverse curve scoliosis
Scoliosis Causes
Some factors increase the chance of having degenerative scoliosis, including:
- Being 65 years of age and older
- Family history; hereditary
- Being overweight or obese
- Smoking, history of smoking, or currently smoking
- Individuals with osteoporosis
- Having a job that requires heavy manual labor
Scoliosis Treatments
Treatment options for scoliosis vary. One could receive no treatment, experience close monitoring, or have the intensity of surgery. Some people wear a brace part-time, while others wear a brace full-time. Depending on the nature of the scoliosis, a variety of treatments could be implemented, including:
- Conservative care
- Physical therapy
- Wearing a brace
- Pain management
- Healthy lifestyle modifications
Surgical care (spinal fusion, osteotomy, decompression, vertebral column resection, or placement of instrumentation like an expandable rod, screws, or plates)
How Can a Physical Therapist Help?
While there is currently no way to prevent scoliosis, there are strategies to reduce the risk and slow the progression. These include:
- Exercise
- Core and back strengthening
- Low-impact cardio
- Yoga, pilates, barre, etc., focus on stability, flexibility and balance
Proper posture
Practice good posture in all positions: sitting, standing, and during functional movement patterns like bending, squatting, or lifting.
Overall Health
- Avoid smoking as it can increase the degenerative process of the spine.
- Maintain a healthy weight to prevent excess stress and strain on your body.
- Eat healthy, whole foods to ensure essential vitamins and minerals.
Exercises and Stretches
See below for specific exercises and stretches to help with scoliosis:
Cat-Cow (or cat-camel) Stretch
- Begin on your hands and knees with your hands below your shoulders and your knees below your hips.
- Arch the upper portion of your back as much as possible while bringing your head toward your chest.
- Return to the starting position and immediately arch the lower portion of your spine so that your stomach comes toward the floor while simultaneously raising your head.
- Repeat for three sets of 10 reps.
Child’s Pose
- Begin on all fours on your hands and knees.
- Pushing back with your hands, bring your hips towards your heels and your chest towards the floor while relaxing your head.
- Hold for 30 seconds and repeat 3 times.
Thread the Needle Stretch
- Begin on all fours on your hands and knees.
- Reach one hand under and across your body, allowing your head and shoulders to follow.
- Reach your hand toward the sky, ensuring your head and trunk follow the rotation.
- Repeat for three sets of 5-8 reps/side.
Tip: Make sure your eyes are following the movements of your hand.
Side Bend Stretch
- Begin standing with your arms at your sides.
- Keeping your spine in line front to back, bend slightly sideways, sliding your hand down the side of your leg.
- Hold, then return to the starting position and repeat on the opposite side.
- Repeat for 2-3 sets of 10 reps/side.
Pelvic Tilts
- Begin lying on your back with your knees bent, feet on the floor, and your hands on your hips.
- Engage your lower belly, tilting the front of your pelvis towards your face.
- Return to starting position.
- Repeat for 2-3 sets of 10 reps.
Physical Therapy Near You
Whether you’re experiencing scoliosis or general back pain, seeking treatment from a qualified physical therapist is essential for adequate recovery, and regular sessions with a physical therapist can significantly improve your mobility, reduce pain, and enhance your overall quality of life. Take the first step towards recovery by finding a physical therapy location near you. Early intervention can lead to quicker and more effective relief, allowing you to return to normal activities and get back to what you love.