Scoliosis Specific Exercises: What they are and how can they help
Scoliosis Specific Exercises (SSE) are a crucial component in managing and treating scoliosis, particularly in adolescents. In our office we call them ScoliCorrection exercises. The Society on Scoliosis Orthopaedic and Rehabilitation Treatment (SOSORT) is the educational body that provides guidelines for treating scoliosis across all medical fields. Their guidelines emphasize the importance of these exercises in a comprehensive treatment plan for scoliosis. In this article, we'll delve into what scoliosis specific exercises are, their benefits, and how they are applied according to SOSORT guidelines.
Understanding Scoliosis Specific Exercises
Scoliosis Specific Exercises are tailored exercises designed to address the unique curvature of the spine in individuals with scoliosis. Unlike general exercises, SSEs focus on the three-dimensional correction of the spinal deformity. They are based on the principle of active self-correction, which aims to reduce the curvature and improve posture and balance.
The Role of SSEs in Scoliosis Management
SOSORT advocates for the inclusion of SSEs as part of a comprehensive approach to scoliosis management. These exercises play several key roles:
Improving Spinal Alignment: By strengthening and stretching specific muscle groups, SSEs aim to correct or reduce the spinal curvature.
Enhancing Respiratory Function: Some exercises target the thoracic region to improve lung capacity and breathing efficiency.
Boosting Postural Control: SSEs help in developing better control over posture, which is crucial for those with scoliosis.
Reducing Pain: Regular practice of these exercises can alleviate back pain commonly associated with scoliosis.
Prevent Progression: SSEs are an important component of stopping progression. This is true for all age groups
Types of Scoliosis Specific Exercises
SOSORT outlines various types of SSEs, each tailored to the individual's specific curvature pattern. Some of the well-known methods include:
The Schroth Method: This method uses isometric and breathing exercises to de-rotate, elongate, and stabilize the spine in a three-dimensional plane.
The SEAS Approach (Scientific Exercise Approach to Scoliosis): This focuses on auto-correction, stabilization, and neuromotor control through specific exercises.
ScoliCare: It combines principals from both Schroth and SEAS to achieve postural correction with the use of SSEs that we call ScoliCorrections and orthotic devices such as ScoliBraces and Dennerolls.
Implementing SSEs in a Treatment Plan
Assessment: A thorough assessment by a trained therapist is crucial to tailor the exercises to the individual's specific curve pattern and severity.
Customized Exercise Program: Based on the assessment, a set of exercises is designed to address the individual's needs. These are completely unique from person to person.
Supervised Training: Initial training under the supervision of a skilled therapist ensures that the exercises are performed correctly.
Home Exercise Program: Patients are required to continue exercises at home to maintain and enhance the benefits.
Regular Follow-up: Regular monitoring and adjustments to the exercise program are necessary to align with the patient’s progress.
The Benefits of SSEs
Non-Invasive Treatment Option: SSE provides a non-surgical approach to managing scoliosis.
Improved Quality of Life: Regular practice can lead to better posture, reduced pain, and improved physical appearance.
Empowerment and Control: Engaging in SSE allows patients to take an active role in managing their condition.
Scoliosis Specific Exercises, as recommended by SOSORT, offer a proactive and effective way to manage scoliosis. These exercises, when combined with regular medical care, can significantly improve the quality of life for individuals with scoliosis. It's important for patients and families to work closely with healthcare providers to develop a custom program that addresses each individuals needs.
Scoliosis Specific Exercises offer a proactive and effective way to manage scoliosis. These exercises, when combined with our full scoliosis program, can significantly improve the quality of life for individuals with scoliosis. It's important for patients and families to work closely with healthcare providers to develop a custom program that addresses each individual's needs.
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