Although every spine is supposed to have some inward and outward curvature, some people develop spines that curve side-to-side. This curving, known as scoliosis, can lead a spine to look like a "C" or "S" as opposed to a straight line, according to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. Milder cases of scoliosis merely require regular medical observation but more serious forms may require further treatment and rehabilitation.
Rehabilitation Factors
The best line of treatment and rehabilitation for scoliosis is on a case-by-case basis. Factors such as your sex, the location of your spinal curve and the shape and severity your curve will influence your physician's decision, according to MayoClinic.com. The maturity of your bones is also a major deciding factor, because a curve is unlikely to progress once your bones have stopped growing in adolescence.
Exercise Program
Exercise programs are unlikely to prevent or reduce scoliosis, but regularly exercising can improve muscular support, boost your physical function and reduce pain associated with your scoliosis. One stretch that may help involves reaching up with the tight, concave side of your body and reaching down toward the ground with the opposite hand, according to the Sports Injury Clinic. Hold this position for five seconds, relax and repeat about 10 times a few times throughout the day. Another way to stretch the tight side is to reach up with the arm on that side and bend sideways away from the tightness. Though these exercises may be helpful, you should consult your physician before you begin any exercise program.
Bracing
You may need to wear a brace if your curvature is between 25 and 40 degrees and your physician believes that your body will continue to grow significantly, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. A brace won't reverse scoliosis, but it will prevent the curvature from getting worse. You will be able to resume most physical activities while you wear the brace and temporarily remove the brace as needed for some physical activities. Bracing will stop once your physician believes your bones are finished going through dramatic growth.
Surgery and Healing
Your physician may recommend surgery if your curvature is over 50 degrees when it's first detected or if it continues to worsen despite a brace. You may also need surgery if you're an adult and your scoliosis is causing you severe pain or neurological problems. Your stay in the hospital after surgery will generally last between five days and a week and a nurse or physical therapist will begin guiding you through walking exercises within the first one to two days, according to SpineUniverse. You may need to use a cane or walker for balance in early recovery or benefit from staying in an inpatient rehab facility for one to three weeks to recover physical function. You will likely return to many normal daily activities within three weeks to a month and engage in greater levels of activity within three to six months.
Considerations
Although you may read advertisements that suggest otherwise, MayoClinic.com states that alternative treatments such as chiropractic manipulation, biofeedback and electrical muscle stimulation haven't proved effective in treating scoliosis. Get advice from your physician if you're interested in pursuing any of these methods of care.
References
- Sports Injury Clinic: Scoliosis Stretching and Strengthening Exercises
- SpineUniverse: After Scoliosis Surgery: Pain Management, Activity, Eating, Hospital Discharge; Baron Lonner, M.D.
- MayoClinic.com: Scoliosis: Treatments and Drugs
- American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons: Scoliosis: What is Scoliosis?
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Scoliosis Treatment
- Scoliosis Research Society: Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis
