Specific Exercise and Physical Therapy for Scoliosis
Specific scoliosis exercise and physical therapy programs can play an important role in scoliosis treatment. Traditionally some had the opinion that “physiotherapy and exercise do not work for scoliosis”. In some respects this is true, general physiotherapy, exercises or programs of Pilates and Yoga have been shown not to stop scoliosis progression. These treatments may however help things such as pain or flexibility.
Specific scoliosis exercise and rehabilitation programs have been developed that have been shown to stop and slow progression of scoliosis in cases where the curve of the scoliosis is less than 25 degrees and in some cases in combination with bracing. The program that is used in ScoliCare Clinics is called ScoliBalance.
ScoliBalance
ScoliBalance is a physiotherapeutic scoliosis specific exercise (PSSE) program used to treat scoliosis and kyphosis in children, adolescents and adults. The program combines the most relevant practices and principles in physical therapy, chiropractic and exercise rehabilitation for a 3D approach to managing scoliosis, tailored to each individual patient according to their curve type, symptoms and treatment goals.
The ScoliBalance concept was created by Dr. Jeb McAviney (Chiropractor) drawing on his clinical experience treating scoliosis using a combination of Chiropractic Biophysics, SEAS^ and Schroth* (BSPTS) techniques. ScoliBalance builds on the foundation of other PSSE programs focusing on aspects that are most effective and achievable for patients to learn and implement. The program is delivered in accordance with the SOSORT** guidelines.
In cases of a progressive idiopathic scoliosis where the curve is greater than 20 degrees, scoliosis specific exercise is usually used in conjunction with brace treatments.
How can ScoliBalance help?
ScoliBalance can be used as part of a complete approach to care for patients with scoliosis or kyphosis. It may assist to:
- Slow down/stop curve progression
- Aid in the reduction of flexible scoliosis curves
- Improve coronal and sagittal balance
- Complement brace wear to help maintain the correction achieved with bracing
- Improve muscular balance
- Improve spinal flexibility
- Improve posture and body appearance
- Reduce pain
- Improve standing balance and reduce fall risk in older adults.
It is important to understand that only specialised exercise and rehabilitation programs specifically designed to treat scoliosis have been shown to make improvements.
Looking for more information?
Contact us to discuss your case, and for advice and support
*Barcelona Scoliosis Physical Therapy School (BSPTS)
**SOSORT is the International Society of Scoliosis Orthopaedic and Rehabilitation Treatment. (1) Negrini et al, 2018.
^ Scientific Exercise Approach to Scoliosis