Tag: scoliosis

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!

Scoliosis Awareness Month – Special Event For Schools!

Posted on May 17, 2024 by - Uncategorized

Have you ever heard of Scoliosis?

Scoliosis is a condition of the spine which causes it to form an “S” or “C” shape when viewed behind. As Scoliotic curves get bigger there can be negative impacts to health. In younger people Scoliosis tends to progress over time – becoming worse if not treated. Untreated, Scoliosis can lead to physical deformity, pain, difficulty with exercising and mobility and in severe cases can impact the functioning of the vital organs.

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, and 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 – just look at the photo below! 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.

June is Scoliosis awareness month, and this June, our founder Dr Paul Irvine, wants to teach as many parents as possible how to screen their own children for Scoliosis, but if you’re a parent, or teacher, we need your help!

 

 

What we’re offering

This Scoliosis Awareness Month, the UK Scoliosis clinic is offering local schools a totally FREE presentation and awareness event for parents of children in the age groups where Scoliosis screening can be valuable – this will include:

  • Presentation in person from Scoliosis expert, Dr Paul Irvine
  • Free handouts and information material
  • Demonstration of how to screen their children for Scoliosis
  • Information on how to seek help in the event of concerns about Scoliosis
  • Question and answer session

 

In order to reach as many parents as possible, we need your help:

Parents – Please get in touch with your school and ask them to arrange a free presentation!

Teachers – Please fill out the form at the bottom of this page and we’ll contact you to discuss your free presentation!

 

A couple of other important points:

  • Presentation times and dates will be arranged to be convenient for parent groups and school administrators, the expectation is most will take place after school hours, Monday – Friday.
  • The presentation is given primarily to promote awareness and empower parents to screen their children on an ongoing basis. As such, it will not involve any screening of parents or children for scoliosis and no diagnostic services will be provided, however, we will be happy to welcome anyone to the clinic should they have concerns they would wish to discuss at a consultation.
  • Presentations will be FREE of charge, including any relevant handouts and reading material.
  • Bookings for free presentations are open until 30th June, 2024.
  • Please fill out the form below, and we will contact interested schools with further information and to arrange your event ASAP.

 

What is the UK Scoliosis Clinic

The UK Scoliosis Clinic is the leading provider of Non-surgical treatment for Scoliosis, based in Chelmsford, Essex. It was founded by Dr Paul Irvine in 2017 and offers treatments such as bracing and exercise-based approaches.

While the UK Scoliosis Clinic is a business, we dedicate our time and money to raising Scoliosis Awareness each year, especially during Scoliosis Awareness month. As a Parent, Paul is especially extremely concerned with raising the awareness level of other families, since there is little to no information available to most people.

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!

 

 

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.

 

 

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 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.