By: Rachel Scanlon, PT, DPT
Imagine seeing a tree defiantly growing sideways in your yard. In a parallel scenario, teenagers with scoliosis exhibit a noticeable trunk shift in their posture. However, the journey to rectifying their upright stance delves into a realm of complexity and intricacy.
Proprioception, the body’s innate sense of movement and position, is the key to unlocking proper posture. Through targeted exercises and activities that enhance balance, coordination, and body awareness, we can reshape the way the brain perceives postural alignment.
For those with scoliosis-induced trunk lean, a tailored approach is essential. By utilizing physiotherapeutic scoliosis-specific exercises (PSSE), we can retrain postural control with precision. The exercises, customized to individual curve patterns, focus on elongating tissues, expanding the rib cage, and activating muscles to correct imbalances caused by scoliosis and promote upright posture.
In physical therapy, outcome measures are assessed by measuring the alignment from C7 vertebra in the neck down to the gluteal fold (the crease between buttocks and upper thigh) using a plumb line, as well as evaluating the angle of trunk rotation. Both the plumb line measurement and trunk rotation angle show a positive correlation with radiologic Cobb angle (X-ray that measures spine curvature) results.
The objectives of PSSE differ between adolescents and adults. In adolescent idiopathic scoliosis, the main aim is to halt the progression of the curve, while for adult patients, physical therapy focuses on alleviating pain. Both adolescents and adults can experience enhancements in center of mass, strength, and quality of life through PSSE.
It is essential to understand that PSSE is not meant to replace thoracolumbar-sacral orthosis (TLSO) bracing, but rather complements it by providing active postural correction. Before starting any scoliosis exercise regimen, it is vital to seek guidance from a qualified physical therapist or healthcare professional to ensure that the chosen approach aligns with the individual’s specific requirements.
Sheltering Arms Institute has licensed physical therapists that can help individuals living with scoliosis. To schedule an evaluation with a therapist, please visit www.shelteringarmsinstitute.com/contact-us or call (804) 764-1000.
