While your spine does feature normal curves to support your back and lower body, those with scoliosis experience abnormal curvatures of the spine. This can cause the spine to take on a "C" or "S" shape. This can cause pain and discomfort. Regular physical therapy exercises can help to prevent further worsening of the scoliosis spinal curve and maintain bone health. If you have a loved one or physical therapy patient who experiences scoliosis, you can guide the patient through exercises that help to relieve pain.
Thoracic Valley Stretch
This exercise helps the scoliosis sufferer to correct the spinal curvature due to scoliosis. To perform the exercise, have the person lie on his side with a pillow under the ribcage. Have the person lift his top arm overhead. The lower arm and leg can be bent. Instruct the person to breathe in deeply. You can lean over him and gently push the top arm slightly upward and down to stretch the side. Hold this position for 10 to 15 seconds, then release the stretch. Perform this exercise two additional times on this side, then have the person switch to his opposite side.
Criss-Cross Stretch
You can assist the scoliosis patient with this exercise by helping her deepen the stretch. Start by having your patient's legs crossed over each other. Instruct her to lean over her legs, trying to touch her head to the floor. Stand behind her, pressing the lower back to deepen the stretch. Hold this position for 10 to 15 seconds. You can place your other hand on her upper back for additional support.
Lower Back Stretch
You can perform this exercise to help the scoliosis sufferer stretch the lower back, which often can be taxed due to spinal curvature. To perform this stretch, have the sufferer lie on his back. Instruct him to pull his legs in toward his chest. Kneel in front of his legs, and take the feet or ankles, helping to push the knees and legs toward the chest. The person should feel the stretch in the lower back and buttocks. Hold in this position for 15 to 20 seconds, then release the stretch. Repeat two times.
Spine Extension
The spine extension exercises stretch tight muscles in the back and chest that can result from scoliosis. Have the person lie on her stomach with her palms facing down. Press on her lower back to help her tilt her pelvis, stretching the lower back. Stand over her, and pull back on her shoulders to help her lift her shoulders and chest off the ground. Hold this position for 10 to 15 seconds, then lower the chest back to the ground. Repeat this exercise three to four times.
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