Scoliosis and Sports

 

Scoliosis and Sports

We all know exercise and physical activity are beneficial for health and can result in decreased risk of cardiovascular disease and increased longevity. But, what about the scoliotic?

I am frequently asked about sports participation and scoliosis, for the growing adolescent or the adult who wants to be physically active but fears curve progression. In severe scoliosis (50º+), sometimes lung function is a factor.  Also, what about those who have had surgery for scoliosis?

Each case must be considered individually. Generally, I encourage athletic participation in the absence of any other medical conditions or complications, with a few words of caution.

For those who have had scoliosis surgery, always check with the surgeon before participating in sports.

For others, a study performed by the American Chiropractor Board of Sports Physicians concurs; sports is okay for scoliotics. A search of the literature on the subject led to the conclusion that sports participation and exercise are beneficial for those with scoliosis, for the fitness quotient.

Sports and Scoliosis Study

When participating in a sport, or embarking on a new one, which sports are the best , or worst, for those with scoliosis? There are things the scoliotic must know and take into consideration.

Yoga, in particular, with its twisting in both directions may be harmful to the asymmetric spine.

In general, sports or activities that jar the spine, such as long distance running, is not recommended. You may want to consider an elliptical machine or biking as an alternative.

Again, each spine is different. Additional factors to be taken into consideration are whether a hypokyphosis or hyperkyphosis of the thoracic spine is present.

A hypokyphosis is the loss of the sagittal curve or flattening of the thoracic spine. Hyperkyphosis is excessive rounding of the thoracic spine. All things being equal, sagittal curvature should be taken into consideration.

The bottom line – your physical activities should be adjusted to your, or your child’s, particular curvature. Vertebral rotation and lateral bending of the spine must also be considered.

Check with an experienced scoliosis exercise therapist who will take your individual spine into account when making recommendations. Schroth certified therapists are best trained for advice concerning this 3-dimensional condition.

Scoliosis Exercise?

No one hates exercise more than me. It’s a constant struggle. Thank goodness for an occasional sunny day and friends to walk with or exercise might not happen.

This morning, an unusually beautiful one for December in New England, I was panting my way around the local track and for some reason the term ‘scoliosis exercise’ popped into my head. I began thinking how that term must scare off so many adults with scoliosis – yes, scoliosis is a constant source of thought in the Moramarco world.

I realized the term ‘exercise’ is probably somewhat scary, especially to adults in their 50‘s, 60‘s or 70‘s with scoliosis who are beginning to slow down due to the limitations that may come with scoliosis as aging occurs. Several women have Continue reading “Scoliosis Exercise?”

Scoliosis Questions, Please Call

scoliosis logo

3 Baldwin Green Common

Woburn, MA 01801

(781)938-8558

info@scoliosis3dc.com

Subscribe to Blog

Enter your email address:

Delivered by FeedBurner

Complimentary Phone Consult

Schedule a complimentary phone consultation regarding yours or your child's scoliosis. Gain insight into the Schroth Method and our unique approach to scoliosis management. Contact Us

Care Credit-Financing Option

CareCredit