Normal spine curvature helps maintain alignment between the pelvis and upper body. With scoliosis, however, the spine has an abnormal "S"-shaped curvature. There is no cure, but various treatments such as braces, surgery and exercise are available. Scoliosis exercise therapy that conditions, strengthens and stretches your leg, back and abdominal muscles may slow down and correct the curvature. As a natural remedy, noticeable results take time. Remember to check with your doctor prior to starting new exercises.
Background
Scoliosis remains a mystery to medical professionals, who have not uncovered any reasoning behind who or why anyone develops this spinal abnormality. Doctor also cannot predict how the condition will progress in an individual. Most people with scoliosis do not require treatment. It is known, however, that more females develop advanced curvatures requiring treatment, according to the National Scoliosis Foundation. On average, onset of scoliosis occurs in adolescents between 10 and 15 years old.
Benefits of Exercise
Scoliosis exercise therapy provides benefits for the entire body. Scoliosis can result in decreased respiratory functioning since it can diminish lung capacity and increase heart pressure, according to the National Scoliosis Foundation. Therapy can help increase lung and breathing capacity through stretching and strengthening exercises. Posture and back support will benefit via exercises that strengthen abdominal and back muscles, according to iScoliosis.com. Therapy can also relieve pain, improve quality of life, foster a positive mental outlook and increase self-esteem.
Yoga
A branch of Hatha yoga known as Iyengar concentrates on special physical concerns affecting body alignment. Iyengar yoga emphasizes postural alignment, which is the focal point of scoliosis, according to the National Scoliosis Foundation. The ancient yoga practice combines mental, spiritual and physical realms while improving balance awareness, a concern affecting scoliosis patients. Yoga postures can improve muscle strength, flexibility and mental outlook by promoting a calm mind, improve breathing and detoxifying the body.
Water-Based
Water exercise, known as water therapy, can be very beneficial as part of scoliosis exercise therapy. Many exercises done on land can be painful and uncomfortable for scoliosis patients. Water alleviates this by encouraging movement, according to the University of Washington Medical Center. In addition, exercising in water is easy on the joints. Water provides a natural resistance, making strengthening exercises easier to perform, and warm water allows your muscles to relax.
Back Extension Exercise
Strengthen your back and improve your posture by doing a back extension exercise. Lay stomach-down on an exercise ball with your knees on a mat. Move forward on the ball until your back feels parallel to the floor. Lift your arms and hands straight in front of you until they are also parallel with the floor. Hold this posture for five seconds. Relax for 10 seconds. Repeat this exercise 10 times.
Warning
Exercise therapy varies according to degree of severity, medical condition, overall health level and current level of activity. As with any exercise program, remember to start out slow and gradually increase your repetitions and time. Avoid sudden movements, lift proper weight amounts and wear appropriate attire to prevent injury, according to the American Heart Association. Drinking plenty of water will prevent dehydration and illness.
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