Scoliosis is a sideways curvature of the spine that can occur for various reasons, some of them unknown. It most often develops in children just before the onset of puberty, according to MayoClinic.com. Although many instances of the condition are mild, some may cause disability. However, performing regular exercises to strengthen the back can minimize the influence of scoliosis and promote muscular and spinal health. Prior to performing these exercises, you should consult your doctor to make sure they are safe for your condition.
Sit-Up Pelvic Tilt
Lie flat on the ground and raise your knees, keeping your feet flat on the ground; this is similar to the lower body positioning needed to perform a sit-up. Extend both arms straight behind you and tilt your pelvis, increasing the curve of the small of your back. Slowly raise the upper body in a sit-up motion, leading with the arms and keeping the elbows straight. Continue sitting up until the fingers extend toward the knees and touch your kneecaps. Once you touch the knees, slowly roll back toward the ground; release the tilt in your pelvis when you are flat on the ground. Repeat this five times.
Standing Side Stretch
Stand up straight with your feet flat on the ground, about shoulder width apart. Extend one arm straight up overhead while keeping your other arm against your side. Slowly bend your torso down to the side opposite your extended arm. Bend as far as is comfortable and hold this position for five seconds; then slowly return to your normal standing position. Lower your extended arm and raise your opposite arm, performing this exercise in the opposite direction.
Back-Strengthening Stretch
Sit in a chair with your feet flat on the ground and knees bent at a 45-degree angle. Place your hands behind your head and lead forward, pulling your head and upper body toward your legs and knees. Your stomach should press onto your thighs. You can repeat this stretch multiple times, but as you come up from pressing the head and shoulders into the knees and below them, lift only the head and shoulders, maintaining the bent angle created at the hips.
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