Scoliosis-Specific Rehabilitation

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Learn about scoliosis rehab with Lauren Ferrante, PT, DPT, OCS. Explore home exercises, manual therapies, and AT tools for scoliosis.

Q: What are the most important home exercises for scoliosis?

A: Key home exercises focus on spinal mobility, especially for those who sit frequently. Cat-cows and thoracic rotation are crucial. Depending on comfort level, core activation exercises like supine marches or dead-bug isometrics are beneficial. When supine, tactile cues help maintain spinal symmetry. Bridges or modified side planks are good starting points, with progression as needed.

Q: Which scoliosis treatment method is best for high school age, considering the Schroth Method helps the 10-15 age group?

A: The Schroth Method can be used for older populations, but it is generally less effective for high school age individuals compared to younger ones. For this age group, focusing on functional core strengthening can also be beneficial.

Q: Are Pilates or yoga safe and recommended for young athletes with scoliosis?

A: Yes, Pilates and yoga are highly recommended for individuals with scoliosis, including young athletes. These activities promote continued mobility and strength, which are vital for managing scoliosis. The most important aspect is to find an activity they enjoy and consistently engage in it.

Q: What manual therapies are effective for scoliosis, and is dry needling helpful?

A: Effective manual therapies include thoracic gapping and rib mobilizations, particularly in a side-lying position to encourage rib expansion. The specific therapy depends on the patient's individual needs and curve patterns. Dry needling is not frequently utilized for scoliosis treatment according to the provided information.

Q: How often are lordotic curves seen in individuals with thoracic scoliosis?

A: Lordotic curves are quite common in individuals with thoracic scoliosis. If a person has a mid-thoracic curve, their body often adjusts by developing a compensatory lordotic curve. Therefore, this presentation is observed frequently.

Q: How do current trends, such as phone and gaming use, contribute to setbacks or overcorrection in scoliosis?

A: The impact of phone and gaming trends on scoliosis setbacks depends on individual patient motivation and activity levels. For athletes, it's often less of an issue, as it's unrealistic to maintain one position for extended periods. For minimally active individuals, parental encouragement to move around every hour, regardless of the activity, is important.

Q: How often are active populations braced for scoliosis?

A: Braces for scoliosis are typically prescribed by pediatric orthopedic specialists. For junior high and high school-aged children, as they mature, the need for braces often decreases, and they may not be in them very much.

Q: What are the three most important practical tools for Athletic Trainers (ATs) regarding scoliosis?

A: The three most important practical tools for Athletic Trainers when addressing scoliosis are observation for signs of scoliosis, implementing exercises on a mat or table, and utilizing a wall for exercises with minimal equipment.