Tag: scoliosis treatment

Yoga and Scoliosis

Posted on June 12, 2024 by - Blog

Can yoga treat Scoliosis?

Yoga is a popular complementary therapy for those with Scoliosis – not just because of the physical benefits it has, but also for the significant mental health benefits which many people derive from it! This alone is probably a good reason to take a look!

Let’s get down to the numbers though – while yoga can have many health benefits, it cannot reduce Cobb angle (the size of a Scoliotic curve) which is the primary measure by which we judge the effectiveness of a Scoliosis treatment. If you do your research, you will find some small-scale studies (mostly case studies) which have suggested that yoga may have a positive role to play in reducing cobb angle[1] and at least one case study has demonstrated a reduction in Cobb angle from 49 to 31 degrees, although in this instance progress was achieved over a very long period of 35 years.[2]  At this time however, there is not sufficient evidence to suggest that yoga can effectively reduce Cobb angle reliably in most patients.

 

Yoga and body posture

Of course, the Cobb angle isn’t the only issue caused by Scoliosis – some, but not all, patients experience pain as a result of their scoliosis. Many people do report pain reduction and improved balance when practising yoga poses optimised to support scoliosis. This is accomplished by stretching muscles that have tightened and strengthening muscles that have become weak from this asymmetrical imbalance – this isn’t a direct treatment then, but it can be a valuable part of a treatment plan.

Taking this idea a little further some existing forms of yoga, such as Iyengar Yoga, have been demonstrated to be effective in improving coordination and physical function in scoliosis patients[3] and some specialist programs designed to reduce the symptoms of scoliosis have been developed – although as yet, there’s no scientific evidence to show that any one program is the best choice). In fact, this may not matter, since there are some specific characteristics of virtually all Yoga practices that are helpful in Scoliosis treatment!

Firstly many yoga positions are symmetrical and therefore are, in essence, aiming to achieve the same kind of body symmetry taught through scoliosis-specific exercise. Further, Yoga can be especially effective in helping patients discover a way of being sensitive to the asymmetries of the body and detecting them more readily without external input. This in turn could improve patient engagement with scoliosis-specific exercise.

Secondly, Yoga practice can exercise each dimension of the body —the vertical plane through lateral flexions that create side bends, the sagittal plane through flexion and extension patterns that create forward and backward motion, and the horizontal plane through rotations. While scoliosis-specific exercise goes beyond simply balancing the body to try to correct scoliosis, the ability to consciously maintain balance and flexibility in the body throughout a range of movements can be highly valuable in terms of controlling scoliosis.

 

[1] Yoga for scoliosis: new findings. University of California at Berkeley Wellness Letter (UNIV CALIF BERKELEY WELLNESS LETT), Jul2018; 6-6. (2/3p)

[2] Elise B Miller Yoga therapy for scoliosis: an adult case approach Scoliosis 2007:2 (Suppl 1) :P6

[3] Marcia Monroe Yoga and somatic therapy for the treatment of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis: adult case report Scoliosis2007:2 (Suppl 1) :P7

Chiropractic and Scoliosis, What you need to know!

Posted on June 10, 2024 by - Blog

Chiropractic is a well-known approach which is recognised as an effective treatment for many spinal conditions – for most people, back pain is the first issue which comes to mind (and with good reason, chiropractic can be incredibly effective for back pain), but is it useful in treating Scoliosis?

 

Traditional Chiropractic

Let’s begin by saying that traditional approaches within chiropractic are not specifically designed to treat Scoliosis, and while the usual effects of chiropractic treatment (such as a reduction in back pain) may well be of use to scoliosis sufferers, there’s no evidence to suggest that general spinal manipulation will prevent or reduce the development of Scoliosis. For this reason, standardised chiropractic approaches aren’t something we’d recommend as a treatment path and a normal high-street chiropractor shouldn’t be your destination for Scoliosis-specific care.

 

Chiropractic Biophysics

The above being said it’s important to realise that Chiropractic is a huge discipline with many specialities – and there’s some evidence to suggest that some of these approaches may have value as part of Scoliosis treatment.

Chiropractic Biophysics, for example, is an advanced discipline within chiropractic, which is by far the most well-researched and scientifically-published method within the Chiropractic profession. It is based upon proven techniques that help restore the spine back to better alignment and alleviate pain and discomfort at its source. CBP goes beyond the spine and focuses on the supporting ligaments and musculature too – an area which can be of concern for Scoliosis patients. There are currently over 200 peer-reviewed research on CBP analysis, technique and patient outcomes!

Our founder, Dr Paul Irvine was first introduced to CBP in 2003, having had no prior knowledge or experience of it. Once he developed his new skills and knowledge, he found that patient results were superior to traditional methods and that he could help with more difficult cases that traditional chiropractic hadn’t been successful in assisting – once Paul began to specialise in Scoliosis, he brought his skills in CBP with him.

CBP care consists of a package of specific treatment approaches which include:

  • Mirror Image Posture Correction Exercises
  • Mirror Image Posture Corrective Adjustments
  • Corrective Spinal & Postural Traction for spinal remodelling

Taken as a whole, these approaches can assist Scoliosis patients in improving their posture, reducing pain and promoting spinal mobility and flexibility. While chiropractic biophysics alone is not sufficient as a methodology to halt the progression of, or correct, scoliosis there is a growing body of evidence which shows that chiropractic biophysics can play a valuable role in reducing pain and discomfort as well as supporting overall postural improvement in patients.

 

CLEAR

One chiropractic approach specifically designed to treat Scoliosis does exist – CLEAR was founded in 2000 by Dr. Dennis Woggon, a Doctor of Chiropractic with over 40 years of experience in treating spinal disorders. CLEAR is an acronym standing for Chiropractic, Leadership, Educational, Advancement and Research – gradually, more research is being published which suggests that CLEAR could indeed be a valuable addition to Scoliosis treatment plans.

Similar to the approach suggested as part of CBP, CLEAR Certified Doctors of Chiropractic utilise advanced methods of diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation that are not found in most general chiropractic practices to help manage and reduce the symptoms associated with Scoliosis. Unlike CBP, CLEAR also aims to reduce Scoliotic curves – and, to be fair, there are now some published studies showing that this may indeed be possible.

At the UK Scoliosis Clinic, we don’t currently offer CLEAR treatment – but we’re keeping our eye on its development!

 

Scoliosis Awareness Month

Posted on June 1, 2024 by - Blog

At the UK Scoliosis Clinic, we are proud to mark June as Scoliosis Awareness Month. This period serves as an anual chance for us to reflect on the advancements in scoliosis treatment and to advocate for ongoing research. As the Scoliosis Research Society suggests, it is crucial to “Speak Up For Scoliosis” during this month, raising awareness about the condition.

 

Understanding Scoliosis

Scoliosis is a condition where the spine curves abnormally to the side. Despite its prevalence, scoliosis is not widely known, affecting people across all ages, races, and genders, including infants, adolescents, and adults. Adolescents (predominantly females) and individuals over the age of 60 are most frequently diagnosed and should be especially observant.

According to the Scoliosis Research Society, approximately one in six children diagnosed with scoliosis will have a curve severe enough to require active treatment, which may include surgery. Early detection is crucial for initiating treatment that can prevent more severe complications. Today, a variety of non-surgical options, such as bracing and exercise-based therapies, are available, making early diagnosis even more important for successful outcomes.

 

What is Scoliosis Awareness Month?

National Scoliosis Awareness Month in June focuses on the urgent need for education, early detection, and increased awareness about scoliosis and its impact. This initiative brings together patients, families, healthcare professionals, institutions, and related businesses for a month of collaborative grassroots efforts.

Globally, scoliosis screening practices vary. In the UK, there are currently no standardized screening programs, while in the US, about two-thirds of states have mandates or recommendations for scoliosis screening in schools. This underscores the importance of educating friends and family about recognizing the signs and symptoms of scoliosis. Often, it is parents or primary care providers who first notice the issue. Fortunately, a simple examination or X-ray can easily confirm a diagnosis, making the condition much easier to treat.

 

Screening in Schools is Essential!

The numbers dont lie. About 2 – 3% of all adolescents will develop Scoliosis. (that’s approximately one in each class at school), with the majority of cases initially appearing in those between 11 and 14 years of age. Research indicates that seven out of ten children with this condition will worsen and require active treatment – this is especially the case for those who develop Scoliosis as a Juvenile, in which case curves almost never resolve without treatment.

Until recently, it was thought that surgery was the only way to correct Scoliosis – however, over the last decade or so, there has been huge progress in Scoliosis treatment, so that today we can successfully treat most cases which are detected early without surgery. Early detection is key however, as we mentioned, in the UK, there’s currently no program to screen children for Scoliosis. This, in our view, is major problem since screening takes less than 2 minutes once you know how.

Today there is significant evidence which shows that the number of scoliosis sufferers eventually requiring surgery can be substantially reduced where non-surgical treatment (such as scoliosis-specific exercise, or bracing) is available. The earlier treatment is started, the better the outcome. Research also confirms that in areas where screening programs exist, fewer patients ultimately require surgery for scoliosis.

 

Our Mission for 2024

With this in mind, rhis year, our focus is on reaching as many Schools as possible!

Can you help?! Check out more information here: https://scoliosisclinic.co.uk/schools/ and watch this page for updates!

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.

 

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!

 

 

Can Scoliosis Be Cured?

Posted on April 3, 2024 by - Blog

For those who are diagnosed with scoliosis, the first question is almost always “can scoliosis be cured?”.

Scoliosis is a complex condition – and so is the answer to this question.

 

What is scoliosis anyway?

Before we can address the issue of a cure, we first need to properly understand the problem.

Scoliosis is a complex condition which consists of several issues occurring all at once. While a normal spine will appear straight when viewed from behind, in Scoliosis a 3-dimensional shift in the spine takes place, most notably causing a curvature to one side or the other, but it also tends to lead to rotation of the spine itself. Over time, scoliosis affects the balance of the body, leading to muscle imbalances, postural problems and issues with range of movement.

Scoliosis, especially in the early stages, can be hard to spot – scoliosis has typically progressed for some time before there are visual signs – however, once signs have appeared:

  • From the back, the spine may have a C or S shape curve rather than that of a straight line, this can make the waistlines uneven or one shoulder lower than the other.
  • From the side view, the normal spinal curves are often straightened, which makes the mid-back appear flat. Shoulder blades may be prominent.
  • While looking from the head down to the feet, there is a rotation or twist which can cause ribs or one side of the lower back to appear humped or more prominent.

Scoliosis is typically divided into two main categories – adult, and childhood scoliosis. Adult scoliosis is caused either by the degeneration of spinal discs with age or as a result of childhood scoliosis which was not treated. Childhood scoliosis (affecting infants through to young adults) has several known causes, but in 80% of cases, the exact cause is unknown. This is termed “Idiopathic” scoliosis. The remaining 20% of cases are typically caused by congenital or genetic conditions, spinal malformations, underlying neuromuscular conditions, metabolic conditions or trauma.

 

Can Scoliosis be cured?

It’s important to be clear about what we mean when we talk about a “cure”. Scoliosis, depending on the type is (probably, according the current research) either genetic (idiopathic), or the result of denegation in the spinal discs (de-novo). Neither of these underlying issues can be “cured” per se.

Therefore, while some symptoms can be alleviated, addressing the root cause, especially when unknown or age-related (as in de-novo scoliosis), looks more like management rather than a definitive cure.

In young people, Scoliosis which is spotted early may be possible to correct to an extent that the spine is considered “normal” – but the individual will still have the underlying genetic factors which predispose them to developing Scoliosis. Ongoing monitoring will be required to stop the curve from coming back, at least until adulthood is reached.

In order people, it’s not possible to reverse the ageing process or reduce the damage which may have already occurred to vertebra – however, it is possible to support the spine and prevent it from worsening quickly, and complementary treatments may well be able to reduce any associated pain and greatly improve mobility.

At the UK Scoliosis Clinic, our aim is to allow people to live a normal life with Scoliosis.

 

[1] ‘A population-based cohort study of 394,401 children followed for 10 years exhibits sustained effectiveness of scoliosis screening’
Fong DY, Cheung KM, Wong YW, Wan YY, Lee CF, Lam TP, Cheng JC, Ng BK, Luk KD, Spine J.  2015 May 1;15(5):825-33. doi: 10.1016/j.spinee.2015.01.019. Epub 2015 Jan 20.

[2] Scoliosis bracing and exercise for pain management in adults—a case report
Weiss et al, J Phys Ther Sci. 2016 Aug; 28(8): 2404–2407.

 

 

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.

 

 

Does poor posture cause Scoliosis?

Posted on January 17, 2024 by - Blog

Scoliosis is a medical condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It is characterised by an abnormal curvature and twist of the spine, which can result in physical limitations and discomfort. While the exact cause of scoliosis is not fully understood, it is believed to be the result of a combination of genetic and environmental factors.

 

Can poor posture cause Scoliosis?

One of the environmental factors that is often associated with scoliosis is poor posture – people with scoliosis are often perceived as having poor posture, and many parents worry that poor posture can cause Scoliosis – but can it? The bottom line is no – poor posture does not cause Scoliosis. Poor posture is a common problem that affects many people worldwide – and it can be a painful issue though. Poor posture can be caused by a variety of factors, including muscle weakness, joint stiffness, and poor ergonomics – but while Scoliosis might cause someone to appear to have poor posture, there’s no evidence to show that poor posture will lead to Scoliosis.

When we have poor posture, our bodies are not in alignment, which can lead to a variety of health problems, including back pain, neck pain, and headaches. Poor posture can also cause our muscles and joints to work harder than they should, leading to fatigue and discomfort. That “hunched” appearance which used to be associated with teens but seems to apply to almost everyone these days is more characteristic of Kyphosis, rather than Scoliosis – and in extreme cases, poor posture might be caused by Kyphosis, but not Scoliosis.

 

Is there any relationship between Scoliosis and Poor posture?

Most Scoliosis research focuses on establishing the true cause of Scoliosis, and the best ways to treat it, so there hasn’t been much research into whether poor posture might contribute once the condition already exists. Therefore, while poor posture is not a direct cause of scoliosis, it might be a factor which could contribute to the progression of the condition. When we have poor posture, our spines are not in the proper alignment, which can cause our muscles and ligaments to become strained and weakened, it’s feasible that this might make it more possible for scoliosis to progress.

Many aspects of a Scoliosis treatment plan are aimed at creating balance and strength in the core muscles which support the spine, so while maintaining good posture is important for everyone, it’s fair to say that focusing on good posture is especially important for those with scoliosis. Good posture can help to alleviate some of the painful symptoms which some people experience with scoliosis at the very least.

 

Maintaining good posture

Scoliosis or not, you can only do yourself a favour by maintaining good posture – Here are some tips:

  1. Stand up straight: When standing, make sure your weight is evenly distributed on both feet, and your shoulders are relaxed.
  2. Sit up straight: When sitting, make sure your back is straight, and your feet are flat on the ground.
  3. Use proper ergonomics: Make sure your desk and chair are at the proper height and distance to promote good posture.
  4. Exercise regularly: Regular exercise can help to strengthen the muscles and ligaments that support the spine, helping to prevent the progression of scoliosis.
  5. Stretch regularly: Regular stretching can help to alleviate the symptoms of scoliosis and improve flexibility.

 

Treating Scoliosis

Treating Scoliosis is about much more than altering postural imbalances – Scoliosis treatment requires a focus on good nutrition, exercise, and healthy lifestyle habits as well as a proactive approach such as Bracing. In this regard, there’s a lot we can do to help patients support treatment plans – and much of the advice would be beneficial to almost anyone!

For example, regular exercise can help to strengthen the muscles and ligaments that support the spine, and eating a balanced diet that is rich in calcium and vitamin D can also help to promote strong bones and a healthy spine.

So, while poor posture is not a direct cause of scoliosis, it’s not impossible that it might contribute to the progression of the condition. This being said, maintaining good posture is important for everyone, and might even help with pain relief in those with Scoliosis. By focusing on good nutrition, exercise, and healthy lifestyle habits, we can care for our spines, with, or without Scoliosis!