Exercise for scoliosis

Abstract

Scoliosis is defined as an abnormal lateral curvature of spine which has a Cobb angle  10 degrees with vertebral rotation. Adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) affects 2 - 3% of the general populations in children of 10 - 16 years old and most common in females with approximately 80 - 85% of the cases of idiopathic scoliosis. Mild scoliosis does not typically cause problems. If severe scoliosis is untreated, it may lead to life of pain, low self-esteem, respiratory and neurological complications and disability including the decrease of quality of life. Observation and early treatment will prevent progression of spinal deformity and other complications.

AIS exercise based approaches are effective in mild to moderate scoliosis and skeletal maturity. Generally, the principles of exercises for scoliosis patients are core stabilization exercise, stretching muscles on concave side, strengthening the muscles on convex side and along with postural correction exercise. Aerobic exercise is also suggested to improve lung capacity and enhance cardiopulmonary endurance. This article provides a general guideline for therapeutic exercise. Therefore, scoliosis patients are strongly recommended to have spinal examination from physicians and physical therapists in order to receive an appropriate and individualized
exercise program.