Normally, the spine has three vertical curves: an inward curve at the neck, an outward curve in the upper back, and an inward curve in the lower back. With scoliosis, the spine curves horizontally, or sideways. Scoliosis may be present at birth or can occur due to neuromuscular issues, such as paralysis or cerebral palsy. Treatment depends on the severity and location of the curve and the age of the patient. Severe cases may warrant surgery, while other cases may respond to a combination of bracing and corrective exercises.
Thoracic Correction
The thoracic correction exercise corrects the "thoracic valley" or sideways curve in the mid-back. Lie on your side with a pillow or cushion under the space between the bottom of your rib cage and the top of your hip. Keep your bottom leg bent and your bottom arm folded under your head. Extend your top leg straight, so that it rests on top of your bottom leg, and extend your top arm overhead, so that your hand rests on the floor. Tilt your pelvis back, extend your chest forward and stretch your extended arm and leg away from each other. Breathe normally and hold for up to 20 seconds. Repeat twice and switch to the other side.
Standing/Walking Pelvic Tilt
The standing/walking pelvic tilt corrects lordosis, or an extreme curve in the lower spine. It also helps strengthen the muscles that stabilize the spine. Stand with your back against a wall and your forearm between the wall and the small of your back. Tilt your pelvis until your lower back presses into your arm. Take two steps forward while holding the pelvic tilt, then return to the wall. Release and repeat up to 15 times.
Supine Spine Extension
The supine spine extension strengthens the lower back muscles and helps straighten the spine. Lie face down with your hands at your sides, palm down, and your forehead resting on a folded towel. Tilt your pelvis to create a small space between your abdomen and the floor. Draw your shoulder blades together to lift your shoulders off the floor. Lift your head until your ears are in line with your shoulders and lift your hands until they are level with your buttocks. Keep your neck neutral and lift your chest off the floor as far as is comfortable. Hold and count to five, or 10, then release. Repeat up to 10 times.
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