The human spine naturally has curves; however, scoliosis is an abnormal sideways curvature of the spine that is typically defined as a mild to severe "S" or "C" shaped curvature. Scoliosis can be most accurately detected from a back view of the spine, either by the naked eye or via an X-ray.
Scoliosis is often diagnosed in children, most commonly girls, but can be diagnosed in adult males or females too. Conditions of scoliosis can range from mild to severe, requiring very little care to aggressive care, such as wearing a brace or even surgery.
Causes
Idiopathic scoliosis is the most common type of scoliosis. Doctors don't know the exact cause of it, but it accounts for approximately 70 to 85 percent of all diagnosed cases. Genetics also play a role in the development of scoliosis where often there is a family history of it. Congenital scoliosis is the abnormal development of the spine discovered at birth. Neuromuscular scoliosis involves poor muscular strength and control around the spine causing muscular imbalances and strain to the back. Scoliosis can also be caused by one leg being longer than the other or the result of a trauma to the spine.
Considerations
Before starting any exercise program, consult with a physician, especially when you have a known medical condition such as scoliosis. Most cases of scoliosis are mild to moderate and exercise has been proven beneficial. However, for more moderate to severe cases exercise may cause further issues. It is important to know the full diagnosis and condition of your scoliosis before you start an exercise program
Pilates for Scoliosis
The Pilates method of body conditioning is a safe form of exercise for mild to moderate cases of scoliosis. Pilates exercises are therapeutic in nature, low impact and can be modified to meet your individual needs. It is recommended to get the assistance of a certified Pilates instructor to mitigate the potential of injury. Becuase Pilates exercises focus on creating an ideal balance of strength and flexibility in the body elongating the spine and proper body alignment it is effective in improving the symptoms of scoliosis.
Yoga for Scoliosis
The physical postures of Yoga incorporate both strength and flexibility in addition to the focus on body awareness, balance and posture which are all important in managing scoliosis. Yoga exercises offer a host of standing, sitting and lying down postures that are effective and with the guidance of a certified Yoga instructor can be very useful in teaching you how to proactively manage and improve the common ailments associated with scoliosis.
Symptoms and Exercises to Avoid
Common symptoms of scoliosis are; back pain, uneven shoulders, hips or rib cage, imbalanced musculature of the spine and the upper body leaning to one side. The symptoms of Scoliosis make you more vulnerable to discomfort and injury when considering exercise and avoiding exercises that can increase discomfort and the probability of injury are important to consider. Some exercises to avoid are those that incorporate back bends, shoulder stands and any type of extreme lateral, bending, stretching or twisting. Back exercises for scoliosis should be gentle and therapeutic by developing muscular strength, flexibility and symmetry in a non-forceful way.
Member Comments