Exercise and Idiopathic scoliosis

Exercise and Idiopathic scoliosis

Idiopathic scoliosis is a condition used to describe a sideways, abnormal curvature of the spinal column and is mostly prevalent in adolescents. This curvature can be as a single curvature (shaped like the letter ‘C’ or reverse ‘C’) or as a double curvature (shaped like the letter ’S’).

The term Idiopathic means that there is no known cause or factor causing it. This is important to note as there is no activity (i.e. exercise, carrying a suitcase on one shoulder, sleeping positioning) or minor postural alignment i.e. leg length discrepancy that has caused it.

The main treatment protocols for scoliosis includes (a) observing and measuring the curvature; (b) back braces to minimise the curvature; and lastly, (c) spinal fusion surgery to correct the curvature.

To date, no exercise routine or exercises has been proven to ever reduce or prevent lateral curvature. But, exercise is still recommended.

People living with non-fused spinal scoliosis will be able to participate in any exercise routine knowing that no exercise performed will accentuate the curvature (there is an increase in curvature but this is more associated with age than with anything the person has done).

Those with fused vertebrae should also have no concerns. It has been shown that there is no additional stress on the fused vertebrae while doing stress. The one possible concern is that there can be additional stress in the lower lumbar vertebrae if directly below a fusion in adults to compensate for limited mobility of the spinal fusion. Excessive twisting or loading should be cautioned against as it has been stated that this could accelerate the disc degeneration in the active vertebral discs.

The benefits associated with exercise (cardiovascular as well as strength and flexibility routines) are numerous and should also be applicable to those with scoliosis and if for no other reason, this is why exercise should be prescribed.

People with spinal fusion will have a reduced trunk flexibility will could affect their daily routines. This could be compensated by improving hip rotation and mobility to allow for greater mobility (most people only use a fraction of their hip range of motion so potential is there to improve it significantly).

Core strengthening and hip stability has also been shown to be beneficial in reducing pain evident in scoliotic adults.

In general, it is safe to say that a flexible, stable, strong back and trunk will be more beneficial to having a weak, unstable, inflexible back and as such a safe, balanced exercise regime should be adhered to improve one’s quality of life (whether scoliotic or not).