Approximately 2 to 3 percent of individuals in the United States live with scoliosis, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Although there isn't a cure, rehabilitation for the condition can help prevent progression of scoliosis, relieve pain and increase mobility. If you have scoliosis, talk with your physician about your rehabilitation options.
Scoliosis Defined
Scoliosis is a condition involving a sideways curvature of the spine, according to the Mayo Clinic. It typically occurs during the growth spurt that precedes puberty -- and the exact cause is unknown, although it may be caused by cerebral palsy and other conditions. Symptoms can include one shoulder higher than the other, an uneven waist or one hip higher than the other. Scoliosis can be mild or severe and depending on the severity, some individuals with the condition may not need any treatment.
Braces
According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, braces are used in the rehabilitation of scoliosis when the curvature of the spine is approximately 20 to 25 degrees, but no more than 40 degrees. The objective is to prevent any more curvature, and there are several types of braces. The brace puts pressure on the back and ribs to help force the spine into straighter alignment. Braces are typically worn full-time, but the amount of time a patient needs to keep the brace on can vary. Progression of the condition is monitored with regular x-rays, and your doctor may suggest working with a physical therapist to build strength in the abdominal muscles and increase torso flexibility, notes the University of Maryland.
Surgery
For more severe cases of scoliosis, surgery may be necessary. The goals of surgery include straightening the spine as much as possible, balancing the torso and pelvic areas, and maintaining these surgical corrections long-term, notes the University of Maryland Medical Center. There are several kinds of surgery that may be performed, based on the type of curvature and its severity. If you are thinking about surgery for scoliosis, talk with your doctor and surgeon. The University of Maryland Medical Center explains that surgery for scoliosis involves fusing the curved vertebrae and supporting the fusion with steel rods or hooks. The specific devices used to support the fused bones can vary, as can the way these devices are implanted, depending on your scoliosis and which operation the surgeon typically performs.
Physical Therapy and Stretching
Physical therapy may be used to help an individual learn body mechanics that will allow proper posture to counteract the scoliosis. Other physical therapy exercises include seated hamstring stretches, standing pelvic tilts and side stretches -- these help strengthen the trunk and aid with good posture, according to Kaiser Permanente. Do not attempt any exercises without first talking with your doctor and physical therapist -- they can provide you with instructions on how to do the exercises safely. Stretching may help expand the lungs, if they have been affected by the spine curvature.
References
- MayoClinic.com; Scoliosis; Mayo Clinic Staff; December 2009
- MayoClinic.com; Scoliosis; Symptoms; Mayo Clinic Staff; December 2009
- University of Maryland Medical Center; Scoliosis - Introduction; Dr. Harvey Simon; May 2009
- University of Maryland Medical Center; Braces and Other Noninvasive Treatments; Dr. Harvey Simon; May 2009
- University of Maryland Medical Center; Scoliosis - Surgery; Dr. Harvey Simon; May 2009
- University of Maryland Spine Center; Adult Scoliosis; September 2007
