If you suffer from curvature of the spine, or scoliosis, you might be able to engage in competitive sports, like soccer. The determining factor is level of severity. Those with mild cases of scoliosis can benefit from the aerobic activity of soccer.
Causes and Risk Factors
Conditions such as cerebral palsy, neuromuscular dystrophy, birth defects and leg length differences have been known to cause scoliosis. But in most cases the cause of scoliosis is not clear. Scoliosis is very common in adolescents, and girls are at a much higher risk of developing severe scoliosis, according to the Mayo Clinic. Genetic factors also play a part in scoliosis; having a family history of scoliosis increases your risk of developing it. Playing sports such as soccer have not been recognized as a cause of scoliosis, nor have sports been known to make an existing case worse.
Symptoms
Mild cases of scoliosis are usually asymptomatic. In some cases, patients may notice uneven shoulders, uneven waist and uneven shoulder blades. In more severe cases, breathing difficulties may arise as the spine twists and rotates. Individuals who suffer severe scoliosis should not engage in physical activities such as soccer because it can be not only be painful, but life threatening as well. Mild cases of scoliosis do not impede a person's ability to engage in physical activities such as soccer.
Diagnosis and Treatment
Scoliosis is diagnosed using a detailed physical examination. MRI, X-ray and computerized tomography are also used to ascertain the severity and possible underlying causes of the scoliosis. In most cases treatment is not required in most scoliosis cases. In some cases braces are worn to prevent worsening of the curvature of the spine. In very severe cases spinal surgery is required to correct the spine.
Soccer
Sports such as soccer have not been proven to prevent or slow down the curvature of the spine. But they have not been shown to increase the curvature of the spine either. Children and adults with mild cases of scoliosis are encouraged to participate in aerobic exercises and competitive sports such as soccer. Soccer will strengthen the muscles of your back and keep your muscles strong. This may prevent other degenerative conditions from complicating the already present scoliosis. Before starting any sports program, consult with your physician to make sure the severity of your scoliosis allows you to do it safely.
References
- MayoClinic.com:Health: Scoliosis
- National Insitute of Health: Facts about Scoliosis
- "Exercise and Health"; Prof. T. A. Asmangulyan; 1997
- "Preventive and Social Medicine"; K. Park, J. E. Park; 1995
