Category: Blog

What Is Scoliosis Specific exercise?

Posted on May 20, 2024 by - Blog

Every Scoliosis case is unique, and at the UK Scoliosis clinic, we believe this means each case needs a unique treatment program. Scoliosis-specific exercise is just one of the many tools which we can use to treat scoliosis cases.

Historically, general exercises like Pilates and yoga (sometimes performed in a specific way) were used as an attempted treatment, but modern research has shown that they lack a direct impact on its prevention or control. Fortunately, two specialised approaches, Schroth and SEAS, have emerged as effective tools for reducing scoliosis progression and promoting correction.

 

Understanding Scoliosis-Specific Exercise

Scoliosis-specific exercises are meticulously designed routines, customised for each patient, aiming to counteract the curvature of scoliosis. Unlike bracing, scoliosis-specific exercise does require consistent effort on the part of the patient since the focus is on self-correction and maintaining improved posture in daily life.

 

SEAS – Scientific Exercise Approach To Scoliosis

SEAS is an individualised exercise program tailored for scoliosis treatment. It can be used independently for small curves or as a complement to bracing for larger curves and those with high progression risks.

 

Schroth Method

The first scientific approach to treating Scoliosis with exercise, Schroth was developed in 1921 by Katharina Schroth. The Schroth method consists of over 100 individualised exercises chosen based on the patient’s specific curve. The program addresses functional issues associated with scoliosis, actively working to improve the condition during everyday life, not just during targeted exercise sessions.

 

Chiropractic Biophysics (CBP)

While not directly designed for Scoliosis treatment, Chiropractic Biophysics deserves an honourable mention. CBP involves a biomechanical analysis of the spine and posture, followed by a targeted program aimed at shifting them back to normal alignment. There’s currently no research which recommends CBP as a mainline Scoliosis treatment, however at the UK Scoliosis clinic we sometimes also use it as part of a comprehensive rehabilitation plan for individuals who are suffering back pain.

 

Effectiveness of Scoliosis-Specific Exercise

Research indicates that physiotherapy-based scoliosis-specific exercise programs are effective in managing small curves (10-20 degrees) in adolescence. For curves exceeding 20 degrees, exercise alone is not considered sufficient, but it enhances long-term results when combined with bracing. These programs improve muscular balance, strength, spinal flexibility, neuromuscular coordination, postural symmetry, and reduce pain in adults with scoliosis.

 

Scoliosis-Specific Exercise at the UK Scoliosis Clinic

The UK Scoliosis Clinic offers individually tailored programs as standalone treatments or as part of comprehensive plans involving bracing and complementary approaches. Recognising that one size does not fit all, our clinic emphasises regular review, updating, and modification of exercise programs to ensure continuous improvement tailored to each patient’s needs and abilities.

 

Scoliosis – Can I Play Sport?

Posted on May 7, 2024 by - Blog

Physical exercise is a vital component of overall health, even for those with scoliosis. At the UK Scoliosis Clinic, we advocate for an active lifestyle during scoliosis treatment. Despite common misconceptions, scoliosis doesn’t necessarily mean avoiding sports altogether – although you do need to ensure your exercise program is not slowing down your treatment.

 

How to Choose Sports for Scoliosis

While participating in sports and physical activities may not treat scoliosis, they can actually help to address some of the associated muscle weaknesses and imbalances which often come with the condition. Tailored scoliosis-specific exercises are ideal, but any core-strengthening activity could be considered valuable as part of a broader treatment program. Exercise should be approached cautiously to avoid worsening existing imbalances however, so professional guidance is key. In general, we can point to some popular exercises which can be highly beneficial, as well as some which can be problematic.

 

Good Sports for Scoliosis

  1. Swimming – A low-impact, full-body workout that enhances strength and cardiovascular fitness. Opt for strokes that maintain a neutral spine position, and avoid high-diving.
  2. Cycling – A low-impact sport providing excellent cardiovascular benefits. Limit off-road cycling to avoid high-impact jolting that may compress the spine.
  3. Cross-Country Skiing – Minimises shock to the vertebrae and engages both sides of the body, promoting a strong and balanced spine. Skiing machines at the gym are suitable alternatives for those not located near a slope.
  4. Strength Training – When performed under professional guidance, strength training can strengthen muscles supporting the spine. Emphasise proper form to prevent worsening scoliosis.
  5. Yoga – Beneficial for adults with scoliosis, offering calming effects and potential fitness improvement. Some limited research suggests yoga could assist in treating scoliosis, making it a valuable complement to targeted exercises.
  6. Stretching – Essential for relieving tension, restoring range of motion, and counteracting the spine’s curvature. Be mindful of safe stretches and avoid those that hyper-extend or severely rotate the spine.

 

Bad Sports for Scoliosis

Certain sports, due to their nature, may load the body unevenly or stress the spine in ways that can worsen scoliosis. While participation is not necessarily ruled out, caution and consultation with a practitioner are advisable.

  1. Gymnastics, Ballet, Dance – These activities, which involve spine-contorting movements, may promote scoliosis. Caution is advised, especially for individuals at risk of developing or already having scoliosis.
  2. Trampoline or Impact Sports – While jumping on a trampoline strengthens leg muscles, it may worsen lumbar scoliosis due to downward landing forces. Impact sports like rugby pose inherent spinal injury risks and are best avoided.
  3. Strength Training with Spinal Compression – Heavy lifting can compress the spine over time. Proper guidance from a scoliosis professional is essential to exercise safely without unnecessary compression.
  4. Tennis, Javelin, Skating – One-sided sports that stress one side of the body more than the other, potentially increasing scoliosis. Balancing with complementary exercises may be appropriate.

 

Can I Play?

Sports and physical activities are great fun and a key aspect of overall health. Participation in sports is of course encouraged for individuals with scoliosis, however it’s critical that the chosen exercises align with their treatment program.

 

 

 

My Child Has Scoliosis – DON’T Do This!

Posted on May 1, 2024 by - Blog

When you find out your child has Scoliosis the desire to provide the best possible care can be both overwhelming and perplexing. Scoliosis – despite strides in awareness in recent years – is still the subject of widespread misunderstanding, often leaving parents uncertain about the next steps. While swift action is crucial, steering clear of certain pitfalls is equally important. Here are three key aspects parents should avoid when navigating the complexities of childhood scoliosis.

 

The Problem with Passivity

Given the lesser-known nature of scoliosis many (probably most) parents find themselves unaware of anyone who has experienced the condition. This lack of awareness may create a false sense of non-urgency, potentially delaying intervention. Years ago, the prevailing belief was that surgery was the sole effective treatment for scoliosis, fostering a “wait and see” attitude. However, this approach is problematic, as scoliosis rarely resolves on its own. Seeking prompt consultation with a scoliosis specialist is paramount, ensuring that the condition is actively monitored and addressed. Waiting, in any capacity, is not a viable option when it comes to scoliosis management.

 

The Price of Ignoring Costs

The financial aspect of non-surgical scoliosis treatment in the UK poses a significant challenge, with limited options available through the NHS. While consulting with a GP to explore local resources is advisable, parents must prepare for potential costs associated with private care. Ignoring or underestimating these costs can lead to irresponsible decision-making. It’s essential to consider two critical factors: the severity of the existing scoliotic curve and the extended duration of treatment. Treatment success diminishes with larger curves, making early intervention more cost-effective. Moreover, viewing costs as a monthly investment over the treatment period provides a more realistic perspective. In some cases, expenses might serve only to delay an inevitable surgery, emphasising the need for informed decision-making based on individual expectations and likely outcomes.

 

Overlooking Mental Health

The emotional toll of scoliosis should not be underestimated, especially considering its prevalence among teens and young adults. Choosing the right treatment environment involves deciding between group-based and individualised settings. Group settings lack privacy but may offer some peer support, while one-on-one settings ensure privacy without immediate peer involvement. The decision should align with the child’s preferences, emphasising the importance of mental well-being during treatment. The UK Scoliosis Clinic, for instance, prioritises a private one-on-one environment, recognising the impact of a calm and private space on clinical outcomes.

 

Getting help

If you’re concerned about Scoliosis, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with us – we offer Scoliosis consultations online as well as at the clinic with no obligation to take up treatment, whatever you do – be active!

 

 

Happy Easter!

Posted on March 31, 2024 by - Blog

🌟🐰 Wishing You a Joyous Easter Break from the UK Scoliosis Clinic! 🌷🥚

As we embrace the beauty of spring, it’s a perfect time to pause, reflect, and celebrate. Easter brings with it a sense of renewal, hope, and gratitude, and here at the UK Scoliosis Clinic, we’re feeling especially thankful for all the wonderful clients who make our journey so fulfilling.

To each and every one of you, we extend our heartfelt appreciation. Your trust in our team and our services drives us to continually strive for excellence, and for that, we are truly grateful. It’s your stories of resilience, determination, and courage that inspire us every day.

As Easter approaches, we hope you take this opportunity to enjoy a well-deserved break. Whether you’re spending time with loved ones, embarking on a springtime adventure, or simply taking a moment to relax and recharge, may these next few days be filled with joy, laughter, and great food!

Here’s to embracing the spirit of Easter — a time of new beginnings, hope, and endless possibilities. From all of us at the UK Scoliosis Clinic, we wish you a wonderful Easter break surrounded by the warmth of family, friends, and the beauty of the season.

Thank you for being a part of our journey. Happy Easter! 🌸🐣✨

 

What’s The Difference Between Sciatica, And Scoliosis?

Posted on March 5, 2024 by - Blog

While regular readers of this blog will probably know that Sciatica and Scoliosis are very different issues, it’s not really that surprising that the question is one of the most searched on Google! After all, both conditions can cause back pain, both sound similar and both are somewhat mysterious in terms of their real cause. For those who don’t yet know the difference, this blog is for you – while these two conditions are often associated with back pain, they are quite different in nature and require different treatment approaches.

 

What is sciatica?

Sciatica is a condition that occurs when the sciatic nerve, which runs from the lower back to the legs, becomes compressed or irritated. This compression can be caused by a large number of conditions – common ones are a herniated disc, spinal stenosis, or other conditions that put pressure on the nerve.

The most common symptom of sciatica is pain that radiates from the lower back down the leg. This pain can range from mild to severe and may be accompanied by other symptoms such as numbness, tingling, or weakness in the leg. Sciatica very often occurs alongside low back pain which can make it tricky to separate the two.

Treatment for sciatica usually involves a combination of pain relief medication, physical therapy, and exercise. Manual therapies such as Chiropractic also have an excellent track record in reducing sciatica and preventing it from coming back by addressing underlying issues, such as poor posture.

 

What is scoliosis?

Scoliosis is a condition that causes the spine to curve to the side. It can be caused by a number of factors, including genetic factors, muscle weakness, and uneven leg length. In some cases, the cause of scoliosis is unknown.

The most common symptom of scoliosis is an abnormal curvature of the spine, which can be visible when standing or bending over. Other symptoms may include back pain, muscle stiffness, and fatigue. In severe cases, scoliosis can also affect lung function and mobility.

Treatment for scoliosis depends on the severity of the condition. Mild cases may not require any treatment, while more severe cases may require bracing or surgery to correct the curvature of the spine.

 

Differences between Sciatica and Scoliosis

While both sciatica and scoliosis can cause back pain, there are several key differences between these two conditions.

Causes: Sciatica is caused by compression or irritation of the sciatic nerve, while scoliosis is caused by an abnormal curvature of the spine. Scoliosis is also actually a condition of the spine, whereas the term “Sciatica” really describes the irritation of the Sciatic nerve – this may often be due to another condition affecting the spine, but there is a slight difference.

Symptoms: The most common symptom of sciatica is pain that radiates from the lower back down the leg, while the most common symptom of scoliosis is an abnormal curvature of the spine. Scoliosis can cause back pain, but upper and mid back pain is more common than low back pain.

Treatment: Treatment for sciatica usually involves pain relief medication in the short term, manual therapies in the medium term and work to improve posture in the long term, while treatment for scoliosis depends on the severity of the condition and may include bracing or surgery. Treating Sciatica is notoriously tricky  – some cases resolve in weeks, and many can go on for months. In Scoliosis, however, treatment continues over a very long period – often 10+ years.

Prognosis: The prognosis for sciatica is generally good, and most people recover within a few weeks or months. The main issue with Sciatica is that without making changes to the issues which caused the flare-up, it’s quite likely to come back. The prognosis for scoliosis depends on the severity of the condition and will require treatment until a young person has reached skeletal maturity.

Prevention: Going through an entire life without experiencing sciatica is possible, but in today’s world probably not likely. Nonetheless, there are common sense steps one can take to minimise issues with Sciatica. Scoliosis is (almost certainly) a genetic condition and not something a person can avoid through their own actions.

 

Scoliosis and Sciatica

Sciatica and scoliosis are two distinct conditions that can both cause back pain. While sciatica is caused by compression or irritation of the sciatic nerve, scoliosis is caused by an abnormal curvature of the spine. The good news is that today there are multiple options for treating both conditions!

 

 

Is Walking A Good Exercise For People With Scoliosis?

Posted on March 2, 2024 by - Blog

It’s well known that exercise is a great way to stay healthy whatever other conditions you may have – it’s all now well known that some sports and activities (especially those which focus only on one side of the body) may not be the best choice for those with Scoliosis.

We get many questions about exercise and which are the best options for people with Scoliosis – but the most important one is this, is plain old walking a good choice? The short answer is yes. Walking is generally considered a safe and effective exercise for people with scoliosis – it works both sides of the body evenly, it’s easy, does not put too much strain on the body, can be done with your brace on and is surprisingly effective!

 

The benefits of walking for people with scoliosis

Walking is a low-impact exercise that can help strengthen the muscles in the legs, hips, and back. This can be particularly helpful for people with scoliosis, as weak muscles in these areas can contribute to poor posture and spinal curvature. Walking also helps improve balance, coordination, and flexibility, which are important for maintaining good spinal health.

In addition to physical benefits, walking can also have mental health benefits. Exercise has been shown to reduce stress and anxiety, improve mood, and increase overall feelings of well-being. For people with scoliosis, who may experience pain and discomfort as a result of their condition, walking can provide a natural way to manage symptoms and improve their quality of life.

 

Precautions to take when walking with scoliosis

While walking is generally considered safe for people with scoliosis, there are a few precautions you should take to minimise any potential risks.

First, it is important to work with a healthcare professional, such as a physical therapist or orthopaedic specialist, to develop a safe and effective exercise program. They can help you identify any limitations or areas of weakness that may need to be addressed before starting an exercise program. This is less about the way you walk and more about taking sensible steps to avoid things like walking with a heavy backpack etc – each case is different here, but follow any relevant guidelines you are given.

It is also important to wear supportive shoes and to choose a safe walking route. Avoid uneven or rocky terrain that could increase your risk of falling or injuring yourself.

Another important consideration is posture. Good posture is important for maintaining a healthy spine, and people with scoliosis may need to work on improving their posture as part of their exercise program. Focus on keeping your shoulders back and down, your chest lifted, and your chin level.

It is also important to start slowly and gradually increase the intensity and duration of your walking sessions over time. This can help prevent injury and reduce the risk of overexertion.

 

Alternative exercises for people with scoliosis

While walking is generally considered a safe and effective exercise for people with scoliosis, it may not be suitable for everyone. Some people may find that other exercises are more beneficial or more comfortable for them.

For example, swimming and water aerobics are often recommended for people with scoliosis, as they provide a low-impact workout that is gentle on the joints and muscles. Yoga and Pilates can also be beneficial, as they focus on building strength, flexibility, and balance, all of which are important for maintaining good spinal health.

Ultimately, the best exercise program for people with scoliosis will depend on their individual needs and limitations. It is important to work with a healthcare professional to develop a safe and effective exercise program that takes into account any medical conditions, injuries, or other factors that may affect your ability to exercise.

 

Is walking a good choice for those with Scoliosis?

Walking can be a safe and effective exercise for people with scoliosis, as long as certain precautions are taken. Walking can help strengthen the muscles in the legs, hips, and back, improve balance and coordination, and provide a natural way to manage symptoms and improve overall quality of life.

 

How Important Is Compliance For Scoliosis Bracing Success?

Posted on February 23, 2024 by - Blog

Scoliosis is a condition that affects the curvature of the spine. It can be caused by a variety of factors, including genetics, injury, or underlying medical conditions. Scoliosis can range from mild to severe, and treatment options depend on the severity of the curvature. One of the most common treatments for scoliosis is bracing. While bracing can be effective in preventing further curvature of the spine, compliance with the treatment plan is crucial for success.

 

What is scoliosis bracing?

Scoliosis bracing involves the use of a custom-fitted brace to prevent further curvature of the spine. The brace is typically worn for a set number of hours each day, depending on the severity of the condition. The goal of bracing is to prevent further curvature and ideally, to reduce the existing curve. Modern “over-corrective” braces, such as the SoliBrace make this possible, whereas with older braces stopping progression was the best possible outcome.

 

Why is compliance important for scoliosis bracing success?

Compliance is crucial for the success of scoliosis bracing. When a patient wears a brace as directed by a Scoliosis specialist, they are more likely to prevent further curvature of the spine and reduce an existing curve. Compliance also ensures that the brace is working properly and providing the necessary support to the spine. Ultimately, Scoliosis braces work by gently applying pressure to the spine in a direction which opposes the curvature – over time, the spine will tend to correct itself – but time is the keyword here. Unless the brace is on a patient’s body for enough time, it simply cannot do its job.

Non-compliance, or failure to follow the treatment plan, can lead to a number of issues. If the patient does not wear the brace as directed, the spine may continue to curve, which can lead to more severe scoliosis and potential surgery. Non-compliance can also cause discomfort and pain, as the brace may not fit properly or provide the necessary support if the curve worsens from its “starting” state.

Compliance is therefore critical to the success of bracing – and while many patients often perceive this as a negative (especially when adjusting to brace wearing) it’s important to realise that research suggests this relationship is proportional, so, consider the flip side – the longer you wear the brace, the faster your Scoliosis will improve![1]

 

How can patients increase compliance with scoliosis bracing?

There are several strategies that patients can use to increase compliance with scoliosis bracing. The first step is to understand the importance of compliance and the potential consequences of non-compliance. Patients should of course discuss any concerns or questions they have with their specialist to ensure that they fully understand the treatment plan and have made as many adjustments as possible to make it viable – this is all well and good for adults but for children, it can be more complicated.

Parents of children being treated with Scoliosis braces should do everything they can to explain the process to their children, but on a practical level, they can also work to make the brace more comfortable and convenient to wear. This may involve adjusting the fit of the brace or finding ways to wear it that are more comfortable. Braces such as ScoliBrace are highly customisable and provide a lot of flexibility in this regard. Some patients find that wearing the brace while sleeping or during sedentary activities is more comfortable than wearing it during more active times – again, braces such as ScoliBrace are easy to put on or take off yourself, which makes it much easier to be more flexible with the times of day that a brace if worn.

Support from family and friends can also be helpful in increasing compliance. Encouragement and reminders to wear the brace can help patients stay on track with their treatment plan.

 

Is compliance the most important factor?

Compliance is crucial for the success of scoliosis bracing. When a patient wears a brace as directed, they are more likely to prevent further curvature of the spine and potentially improve a curve or at least avoid surgery. Nonetheless, compliance with a program is only valuable if that program is optimised to achieve individual results for a given patient – and this is why the choice of brace, and clinic matters so much.

[1] ‘Effects of Bracing in Adolescents with Idiopathic Scoliosis’
Stuart L. Weinstein, Lori A. Dolan, James G. Wright, and Matthew B. Dobbs, N Engl J Med 2013; 369:1512-1521 October 17, 2013DOI: 10.1056/NEJMoa1307337

 

How Fast Does Scoliosis Get Worse?

Posted on February 22, 2024 by - Blog

Scoliosis is a progressive condition – this means it tends to worsen with age, but the speed at which it does this can vary. Scoliosis is known to accelerate during growth spurts, and worsens more quickly in young people than adults. Then again, a form of scoliosis, known as “de-novo scoliosis” is common in older adults, and can also progress quite rapidly.

Each Scoliosis case is unique, and predicting growth rates depends on factors like severity, rigidity, and family history. Broadly speaking, Juvenile scoliosis over 30 degrees can rapidly progress, usually necessitating surgery, while 21 to 30-degree curves may lead to surgery or disability if left untreated[1][2].

Acting quickly and proactively is crucial to halt scoliosis progression and correct curvature before surgery is required.

 

Don’t wait and see

Research by the British Scoliosis Society reveals that even during the consultation process, scoliosis curves can progress considerably. In a 2018 study, patients waiting for scoliosis surgery experienced rapid curve progression, with some requiring more extensive surgery than initially planned. The study included curves ranging from 17° to 90°, emphasising the need for timely intervention[3].

This shows why “wait and see” is such a bad approach to scoliosis treatment – this study alone highlighted the impact of delayed consultation, turning smaller curves into larger, more challenging cases. This is all the more important when you consider that today, with modern approach to treatment, something like a 30-degree curve has an excellent prognosis with conservative treatments like scolibrace,

 

Older Adults and Scoliosis

In general, Scoliosis in adults can be described as slightly more predictable. Adult scoliosis cases tend to progress at a steadier rate, but an additional risk arises with age – degenerative or de-novo scoliosis. Caused by wear and tear on spinal discs, this form is common among older adults, affecting about 30% of those over 60[4].

De-novo scoliosis progresses more slowly than childhood or adolescent scoliosis but faster than the very gradual development seen after reaching skeletal maturity and before age 60. De-novo Scoliosis can significantly impact quality of life. Patients often experience back and leg pain, making walking or standing difficult. Standard conservative treatments may not provide relief, and surgery may not be an option due to conditions like osteoporosis.

For these patients, a gentle supportive brace can offer relief, helping them stand more comfortably for longer periods. Early intervention and proper treatment can make a substantial difference in managing degenerative scoliosis in older adults.

 

Conclusion

Scoliosis progression is not a linear process, it’s unpredictable and that makes taking proactive action as soon as possible all the more important. Waiting for consultation or surgery can lead to rapid and undesirable changes, turning manageable cases into more severe ones. Both young patients with progressive scoliosis and older adults facing degenerative scoliosis require proactive approaches to halt progression, manage symptoms, and improve quality of life.

 

 

[1] Charles YP, Daures JP, de Rosa V, Diméglio A. “Progression risk of idiopathic juvenile scoliosis during pubertal growth.” Spine. 2006 Aug 1;31(17):1933-42.

[2] H V Dabke, A Jones, S Ahuja, J Howes, P R Davies. “SHOULD PATIENTS WAIT FOR SCOLIOSIS SURGERY?” Orthopaedic Proceedings. Vol. 88-B, No. SUPP_II.

[3] Angelo G Aulisa et al. “Brace treatment in juvenile idiopathic scoliosis: a prospective study in accordance with the SRS criteria for bracing studies.” Scoliosis. 2014; 9:3. DOI: 10.1186/1748-7161-9-3.

[4] Kebaish KM et al. “Scoliosis in adults aged forty years and older: prevalence and relationship to age, race, and gender.” Spine. 2011 Apr 20;36(9):731-6.

Is Scoliosis Classed As A Disability In The UK?

Posted on February 1, 2024 by - Blog

Scoliosis is an unusual condition since it can have a huge impact on someone’s life – or almost none at all. Many people with small Scoliosis cases never experience any significant disruption, whereas those with severe cures may even find they have trouble getting around. Scoliosis also sits in an unusual category, since it’s still viewed as a condition which is “permanent” even though today it’s often possible to correct it. With this in mind, does Scoliosis count as a disability?

 

Is Scoliosis a Disaiblity?

In the UK, disabilities tend to be defined not by the condition themselves, but more by the way they impact a person’s life – therefore, whether scoliosis is considered a disability in the UK depends on the severity of the condition and its impact on the person’s daily life.

Under the Equality Act 2010, scoliosis is considered a disability if it has a substantial, long-term adverse effect on a person’s ability to perform normal day-to-day activities. Long-term means that the condition has lasted, or is likely to last, for at least 12 months. This is already complex since people under treatment for Scoliosis will (hopefully) eventually overcome the condition, but how long this will take is very hard to say!

Because of the way that disabilities are assessed in the UK, it is therefore unlikely that Scoliosis will be counted as a disability on its own – you’ll need to prove that it makes living your life difficult.

 

Protection from discrimination

Slightly clearer is the position visa-vis The Equality Act 2010 – this act provides legal protection against discrimination in employment, education, housing, and other areas. In most cases, a scoliosis diagnosis would be an item which an employer, for example, would need to take into account as an aspect of ensuring equality. This means that employers, schools, and service providers are required to make reasonable adjustments to accommodate the needs of people with scoliosis.

Reasonable adjustments may include making physical adjustments to the workplace or school environment, such as providing ergonomic chairs or desks, allowing for breaks or adjustments to working hours, or providing assistive technology or devices.

 

Does Scoliosis qualify me for benefits?

People with scoliosis may be eligible for disability benefits in the UK, but only if the condition makes it difficult for them to live their lives normally. The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) provides disability benefits to people who have a health condition or disability that affects their ability to work. The benefits include Personal Independence Payment (PIP), which helps with the extra costs of living with a long-term health condition or disability, and Employment and Support Allowance (ESA), which provides financial support for people who are unable to work due to their health condition or disability.

 

To be eligible for disability benefits, the person with scoliosis must show that their condition has a significant impact on their ability to work or perform day-to-day activities. The DWP uses a set of criteria to assess the severity of the condition and its impact on the person’s life. If the person meets the criteria, they may be eligible for disability benefits. As you may know, the bar for said benefits is often very high, so sadly it’s unlikely that you’ll be eligible unless your Scoliosis has caused significant mobility issues.

 

Is Scoliosis a disability?

Every scoliosis case is different, and the degree to which it impacts your life will be the biggest factor in deciding if it’s considered a disability and if you can receive benefits or support in the UK. In most cases, having Scoliosis alone won’t be enough to qualify you.

That being said, Under the Equality Act 2010, people with scoliosis are protected from discrimination, and employers, schools, and service providers are required to make reasonable adjustments to accommodate their needs.

 

How To Stay Comfortable While Wearing A Scoliosis Brace

Posted on January 27, 2024 by - Blog

Scoliosis is a medical condition in which the spine curves abnormally to one side. Scoliosis braces are designed to help correct this curvature by applying pressure to the spine. However, wearing a scoliosis brace can feel uncomfortable, especially during the initial adjustment period. Much like wearing braces on your teeth, it takes a bit of getting used to. Once you’re through this part, however, you can make choices which make wearing a brace easy – or hard. Make your life easy by planning ahead! Let’s look at some of the easiest ways to make wearing a brace work for you.

 

Find the right fit

The first and most important step to ensure comfort when wearing a scoliosis brace is to find the right fit for the brace itself. A properly fitted brace should be snug but not too tight. If the brace is too tight, it can cause discomfort and even lead to skin irritation or sores. On the other hand, if the brace is too loose, it will not provide the necessary support and correction.

ScoliBrace, the system used at the UK Scoliosis Clinic is designed to fit the wearer like a glove – we measure and custom produce your brace to millimetre tolerances to ensure that it’s just right. Braces like the ScoliBrace also allow some degree of adjustment, so that we can get more life from the brace – it’s important to ensure that whenever your brace is adjusted you test it out for comfort and have it modified if anything is uncomfortable.

 

Wear a moisture-wicking undershirt

Scoliosis braces, like anything worn on the body, tend to retain heat – in the winter this can be helpful, but in summer it can cause sweating and discomfort, especially during very hot weather. Wearing a moisture-wicking undershirt can help keep the skin dry and prevent chafing or irritation. These undershirts are made of breathable fabric that wicks sweat away from the skin and keeps the body cool.

 

Use skin protectants

Wearing a scoliosis brace can cause friction and pressure on the skin, leading to skin irritation or sores. This isn’t usually an issue with a properly fitted brace during everyday wear, but if you’re using a lightweight brace like ScoliBrace and leave it on during exercise you might experience some discomfort. Using skin protectants, such as creams or ointments, can help prevent these problems. The protectant forms a barrier between the skin and the brace, reducing friction and pressure.

 

Practice good hygiene

Practising good hygiene can help prevent skin irritation and infection. It is essential to clean the skin under the brace daily using mild soap and water. Dry the skin thoroughly before putting on the brace since if you do sweat throughout the day the skin can become more prone to soreness.

 

Wear comfortable clothing

Wearing comfortable clothing can help reduce discomfort when wearing a scoliosis brace. Choose loose-fitting clothes that do not rub against the brace especially when relaxing at home. Avoid wearing tight clothing or clothing with thick seams, as they can cause pressure points and discomfort – this isn’t really to do with the brace – tight-fitting clothes can cause irritation for anyone – but when wearing a brace the effect is often more noticeable.

 

Stay active

Staying active can help improve comfort when wearing a scoliosis brace. Exercise helps improve muscle strength and flexibility, which can reduce discomfort and improve posture. Consult a healthcare provider before starting any exercise program, as some activities may be restricted when wearing a scoliosis brace.

 

Stay hydrated

Drinking plenty of water can help prevent dehydration and reduce discomfort when wearing a scoliosis brace. Dehydration can cause fatigue, headaches, and muscle cramps, making wearing the brace more uncomfortable. Aim to drink at least eight glasses of water per day.