How do I know if I have Scoliosis?

Scoliosis is the most common spinal deformity in the world. It is defined by a lateral curvature (a curve in the spine leaning toward the outside of the body) of greater than 10 degrees.

Types of scoliosis: 

● Idiopathic (unknown cause).

● Congenital (began prior to birth).

● Neuromuscular (due to neuromuscular conditions like muscular dystrophy or cerebral palsy).

● Degenerative (due to osteoarthritis or osteoporosis).

Scoliosis affects a lot more than just our spine. Here are just a few impacts of scoliosis on our: 

1. Heart and lungs: Increased pressure or stretch to the heart, lungs, and diaphragm that impact quality of breathing.

2. Skin: Skin breakdown from uneven skin folds 

3. Nerves, muscles, and bones: Decreased balance. Tight, over stretched, or weak muscles.

4. Quality of life: Decreased participation in sport or exercise. Pain, discomfort, frustration with every day activities.

Scoliosis is a Lifelong Battle

Scoliosis is a lifelong battle that requires an individual treatment plan. There are many different treatment types for scoliosis include.

Invasive management

Spinal fusion surgery → quite literally “fuses” the spine together to decrease deformity.

Indicated for curves > 45 degrees.

Will stunt growth, so not appropriate for non-mature children.

Decreases mobility and range of motion in the spine.

Rod hardware placement surgery → magnetic rods implanted that are adjusted by external hardware.

Usually indicated for non-mature children prior to spinal fusion.

Noninvasive management 

Brace usage 

Indicated for curves 25-45 degrees.

Custom made to slow progression of scoliotic curves.

Recommended wear time 22-23 hours daily.

How can Physical Therapy help?

Prescribed treatment plans through physical therapy – here’s where we come in! 

The main goal in PT with scoliosis treatment is to de-rotate, elongate, and stabilize the spine. We are working toward strengthening the weak areas and lengthening the tight areas. We also work toward remediating all the discomfort mentioned above for the:

● Heart and lungs: Breathing and endurance focused exercises.

● Skin: Skin integrity maintenance and education.

● Nerves, muscles, and bones: Balance exercises, re-orientation to midline, global stretching and strengthening.

● Quality of life: Improving ability for participation in sport or exercise. Reducing pain, discomfort, and frustration with every day activities.

Physical Therapy for Scoliosis is specific, challenging, and overall hard work – but so worth it in the end!