Physiotherapy Essential Routine for Scoliosis

Scoliosis is a condition characterised by sideways abnormal curving of the spine. The sideways curvature can result in a number of physical complications that may include pain, discomfort, and decreased mobility. Management of scoliosis is fairly important for living a quality life. The most effective ways to manage scoliosis physio involve physiotherapy routines. So, it is non-invasive and thus manages scoliosis with exercises and treatment methods that strengthen the muscles, improve posture, and increase flexibility. 

In this blog, we will discuss why it is necessary to follow the physiotherapy routines in the management of scoliosis.

Overview of Scoliosis

Scoliosis involves an excessive sideways curvature of the spine. The most common type is idiopathic, followed by neuromuscular scoliosis. The curve can be located at any part of the spine; it may be moderate or severe. A person who has this condition will either have their shoulder/hips uneven or one side of their back higher than the other. 

Common Symptoms

Scoliosis may manifest itself in many ways. Some will feel back pain, others a change in their posture. Difficulty in breathing comes as a symptom in extreme cases of scoliosis.

Daily Life Impact

Scoliosis will, therefore, affect nearly every area of daily life. The patients experience painful conditions that limit mobility, which in turn makes it hard to perform daily activities. Thus, this consequently affects their working, exercising, and generally the enjoyment of life.

Early Diagnosis

Diagnosis and treatment of scoliosis should be done at an early stage to have effective management of the problem. The earlier the detection of scoliosis, the greater the possibility of its being arrested from progressing further. Moreover, it is here that physiotherapy comes in with a more proactive approach toward the management of the condition.

Benefits of Scoliosis Physio Solution

It doesn’t just deal with the symptoms but works on the foundations of what has caused the scoliosis. Therefore, some important advantages of scoliosis physio include:

Pain alleviation

Pain relief is the first of the many benefits that physiotherapy has to offer. Most people having the condition of scoliosis have a common feature of back pain due to the curvature of the spine. Physiotherapy routines include exercises in order to help alleviate this pain. Physiotherapy will help to strengthen the muscles placed around the spine, hence putting less pressure on the spinal discs and nerves to provide less pain and discomfort.

Improved Posture

Physiotherapy for scoliosis strengthens the core muscles of the body, which, in turn, gives good posture. Good posture is essential for people with scoliosis because it would keep their spine in the most natural position. In addition, exercises that hit on the back, shoulder, and abdominal muscles correct posture and prevent further curvature of the spine.

Muscle Strengthening

Muscle strengthening forms an integral part of scoliosis management. Stronger muscles can hold the spine in alignment much better. Many exercises targeting directly or indirectly the back, abdomen, and lower extremities are involved in physiotherapy, which provides strength and endurance needed to maintain the spine in health.

Increased Mobility

Scoliosis generally restricts movement of any sort. Physiotherapy increases mobility through better flexibility and strength. Additionally, this facilitates the performance of routine tasks and reduces the chances of falling and injury.

Key Physiotherapy Exercises for Scoliosis

Exercises form a very important part of scoliosis management in physiotherapy. Exercises improve muscle strength, enhance posture, and offer flexibility. Thus, here are some of the major exercises included in the physiotherapy for scoliosis:

Stretching Exercises

Stretching is very important in increasing flexibility and releasing muscular tension. Additionally, some effective stretching exercises that help in scoliosis include:

Side Stretch

Standing with feet apart, having hands above the head to one side, then bending to that particular side. Hold for some few seconds then repeat on the other side.

Hamstring Stretch

Sit on the floor with one leg out in front of you, reaching forward, trying to touch your toes, holding for some seconds. Therefore, repeat this on the other side.

Strengthening Exercises

Strengthening exercises increase muscle strength and, hence, offer more support to the spine. The following strengthening exercises will be helpful in treating scoliosis:

(a) Plank: Lie on your stomach and lift your body using only your forearms and toes. Keep your body straight from head to heels and hold it as long as possible.

(b) Bridges: Lie on your back, bend your knees with feet flat on the floor. Slowly raise your hips towards the ceiling and then bring it down.

(c) Bird-Dog: On your hands and knees, outstretch one arm in front of you while stretching the opposite leg behind you. Now, hold for just a few seconds and then switch sides.

(d) Diaphragmatic Breathing: Lie on your back with one hand positioned on your chest and the other on your abdomen. Take a deep breath such that, at every inspiration, the abdomen rises; at every expiration, it falls.

(e) Lateral Breathing: Sit or stand erect and place your hands over the ribs. Breathe deep into flared expansion of the rib cage with every inspiration.

Balance and Coordination Exercises

Such exercises improve balance and coordination, which are very essential in the management of scoliosis. In addition, here are a few useful balance and coordination exercises to treat scoliosis:

(a) Standing on One Leg: Standing on one leg for some time with the other leg altered is very useful. You can hold a chair for support if you want to.

(b) Heel-to-Toe Walk: This is walking along a straight line, placing the heel of one foot directly in front of the toes of another. It exercises balance and coordination.

Creating a Personalised Physiotherapy Routine

Designing a personal physiotherapy routine is very critical in effectively managing scoliosis. Since every person suffering from scoliosis has certain needs and problems to overcome, the routine should be made accordingly. Consult a Physiotherapist: Consultation with a physiotherapist is the keystone of making a routine. They will evaluate your condition and, based on that, design a routine which shall suit you well. Set some realistic targets for your physiotherapy for scoliosis workout. Your goals may be to increase flexibility, reduce pain, or to gain strength. The presence of clear goals will motivate you.

Keep Record: Keep a record of your progress. It helps in visualising the improvements, and you will get motivated to stick with the routine.

Be consistent: You cannot get results if you are not consistent. Make physiotherapy a part of your routine in daily life. 

Adjust as necessary: Your needs will change over time; hence, it is important to adjust your routine accordingly. Regular follow-up with your physiotherapist will ensure that the routine remains effective.

Bottom Line

In summary, essential physiotherapy routines for scoliosis play an important role in the management of scoliosis. They open up a non-invasive yet very potent avenue for pain reduction, improvement in posture, flexibility, and general well-being.

With some key exercises incorporated into their personal routine, individuals with scoliosis will not only be able to partially control their condition but also to improve their quality of life.

Read Also – 10 Stunning Landed House Interior Design Idea