What should you do if you have scoliosis? The treatment methods depend on how severe the curve is! Want to know the different treatment options for varying degrees of scoliosis? A physical therapist from One Essential will explain everything in detail!
Mild Scoliosis Treatment (Cobb Angle = 11° - 19°)
Scoliosis typically worsens during adolescence but gradually stabilizes once spinal growth is complete. If a teenager is diagnosed with scoliosis during puberty and the curve is less than 19°, immediate treatment is usually not required. However, regular check-ups are necessary. If the curve exceeds 25°, further treatment will be needed.
Physical therapists generally recommend that patients with mild scoliosis engage in regular exercise to strengthen the back muscles and improve flexibility. This can help reduce the risk of scoliosis progression and correct poor posture.
Moderate Scoliosis Treatment (Cobb Angle = 20° - 45°)
For adolescents with scoliosis in this range, doctors typically recommend wearing a spinal brace. The brace applies pressure at three key points along the curve to slow the progression of scoliosis. Here are some commonly used braces for scoliosis treatment:
Common Scoliosis Braces
1. Full-Time Wear Braces
Common scoliosis braces include the Underarm Brace, Boston Brace, and Wilmington Brace. These braces can be worn under clothing and typically need to be worn for more than 23 hours a day. Orthotists customize the brace based on the spine’s position, the degree of curvature, and spinal flexibility. When worn correctly, full-time wear braces can effectively control and slow the progression of scoliosis.
2. Nighttime Wear Braces
Common nighttime scoliosis braces include the Charleston Brace and Providence Brace. These braces are made of soft plastic, ensuring comfort even while sleeping. Since the spine primarily grows at night, nighttime braces are a good option for patients who prefer not to wear a brace during the day. For curves below 35°, nighttime braces can be as effective as full-time wear braces.
In addition to wearing a brace, physical therapy is also an essential treatment for moderate scoliosis. It helps prevent further progression and enhances the effectiveness of bracing for the best treatment outcome.
Physical Therapy
Physical therapy for scoliosis typically begins with manual therapy and stretching exercises to release tight muscles and joints caused by muscle imbalances. Once the tension is reduced, strengthening exercises are introduced to target weaker muscles on both sides of the spine. This helps improve postural awareness and control of a neutral spine position. For chronically tight and weak areas, acupuncture or shockwave therapy may be used to enhance muscle activation and improve training quality.
For different scoliosis curve patterns, such as C-shaped and S-shaped scoliosis, physical therapists guide patients through Scoliosis-Specific Exercises (SSE). These exercises are particularly important for S-shaped scoliosis, as incorrect stretching can worsen the imbalance due to the dual curves. Because of the complexity of these movements, professional guidance from a physical therapist is essential to ensure proper execution.
Severe Scoliosis Treatment (Cobb Angle > 45°)
Scoliosis Surgery
Surgery is usually considered when the Cobb angle exceeds 40 degrees or when conservative treatments can no longer prevent further curvature progression. The primary goal of scoliosis surgery is to correct the spinal curvature and stabilize the spine to prevent further worsening. Common surgical methods include:
1. Spinal Fusion
This procedure fuses multiple vertebrae together to reduce the degree of curvature and is one of the most commonly used surgical treatments.
2. Spinal Instrumentation
During surgery, doctors may implant metal rods, screws, or hooks to help support and stabilize the spine, ensuring that it remains in the corrected position.
Recovery After Scoliosis Surgery
The recovery period typically lasts several months to a year. Patients must follow their doctor’s recommendations and participate in rehabilitation exercises to restore spinal flexibility and function. Physical therapists play a crucial role in helping patients recover faster and regain mobility during the rehabilitation process.
Important Considerations for Scoliosis Patients
Maintain Proper Daily Posture
It is recommended that scoliosis patients sleep on their side and use a medium-firm mattress with adequate support to help reduce spinal pressure and prevent worsening of the condition. When sitting, choose a chair with good back support, keep both feet flat on the ground, and maintain the spine’s natural curve to avoid unnecessary strain.
Regular Exercise and Stretching
A lack of physical activity can weaken muscles, potentially worsening scoliosis. Patients should engage in low-impact exercises such as walking, swimming, or yoga to strengthen muscles without putting excessive pressure on the spine. Regular stretching exercises can improve spinal flexibility and strengthen surrounding muscles, helping to maintain better posture and spinal health.
3 Exercises to Help Correct Scoliosis
1. Trunk Side Shift – Improves Thoracic Spine Curvature
- Kneel on a yoga mat with feet shoulder-width apart.
- Keep both shoulders level and shift your upper body to one side while keeping your lower body stable.
- Slowly return to the center and repeat the movement on the other side.
2. Side Plank – Corrects Lower Back Muscle Imbalance
- Lie on your side on a yoga mat, with your elbow positioned under your shoulder and legs stacked.
- Start on the weaker side, lift your hips off the ground, and engage your core to keep your spine in a straight line.
- Progress by adding dynamic multi-angle training.
3. Dead Bug – Improves Rib Flare
- Lie on a yoga mat with arms extended straight up and knees bent at a 90-degree angle.
- Slowly lower one arm and extend the opposite leg toward the floor while keeping your core engaged. Return to the starting position and repeat on the other side.
After reading this article, you should have a clearer understanding of how physical therapy plays a vital role in scoliosis treatment. If you’re dealing with scoliosis, feel free to book a one-on-one consultation with One Essential, where our professional team can help manage your symptoms and prevent further progression.
One Essential Professional Physical Therapy Center
One Essential offers a variety of treatment services, including scoliosis, knee pain, wrist pain, and plantar fasciitis. With experience treating numerous Hong Kong national team athletes, our trusted team provides comprehensive solutions for various pain conditions—all in one place!