Before delving into the benefits of physical therapy for scoliosis, it’s crucial to understand what scoliosis is and how it differs from a scoliotic attitude. Scoliosis is a medical condition characterized by an abnormal lateral curvature of the spine. It’s not just a temporary posture issue but a permanent, often progressive, deformity that can affect the structure of the spine. This condition can have various causes, including congenital spine deformities, neuromuscular conditions, and unknown origins (idiopathic scoliosis).
On the other hand, a scoliotic attitude, or non-structural scoliosis, involves a similar-looking curvature that is reversible and doesn’t involve a fixed spinal deformity. This can be caused by uneven leg lengths, muscle imbalances, or poor posture habits. Unlike true scoliosis, a scoliotic attitude can often be corrected through physical therapy, exercises, and addressing the underlying cause.
Before recommending a course of treatment, one of our best osteopaths in Dubai will evaluate the current condition of the spine, including:
In cases of severe scoliosis, the osteopath will refer you to a reputable orthopedic surgeon for further clinical assessments. In the case where a surgery is required, and only after a successful recovery from surgery is achieved, you can still benefit from scoliosis physical therapy as a means to strengthen your muscles and maintain correct posture.
The therapy allocated for scoliosis may be undertaken by a chiropractor, osteopath and/or physiotherapist. As for physical therapy for scoliosis, it usually involves:
Early detection of scoliosis is vital for effective management and treatment. The earlier scoliosis is diagnosed, the more options there are for treating and managing the condition, potentially preventing severe progression. Parents and guardians play a crucial role in spotting the early signs, which may include uneven shoulders, waist, or hips, or the body leaning to one side.
Corrective care exercises are intended to relieve pain and negative symptoms that occur after surgery. The patient is constantly monitored during the session and whenever an unwanted side effect may appear, the practitioner at Physiowell will introduce specific corrective care treatments to address them.
The physiotherapist professionals at Physiowell may incorporate a Sports Massage in the treatment plan as the Physiotherapists are trained and licensed to practice specialized massages that:
Improves blood flow and reduces inflammation.
Diagnosing scoliosis typically involves a combination of physical examinations and imaging tests. A common initial assessment is the Adam’s Forward Bend Test, where the patient leans forward, allowing a healthcare provider to observe the spine’s curvature from the back. If scoliosis is suspected, X-rays are usually taken to confirm the diagnosis and assess the severity of the curve, often measured in degrees using the Cobb method.
In addition to X-rays, MRI scans or other imaging tests might be recommended to rule out underlying conditions or for more detailed evaluation, especially in cases of atypical scoliosis. Regular monitoring through physical exams and imaging is crucial for tracking the progression of the condition and making informed decisions about the best course of treatment.
Did you know that many people seek physical therapy for scoliosis? It begins in childhood, but the first signs become visible around 10-15. Parents will notice that their child’s posture seems slightly crooked, with one shoulder higher than the other.
Traditional methods to correct scoliosis involve, among others, the use of restrictive braces and even surgery. At Physiowell for Chiropractic, Physiotherapy & Osteopathy Treatment, we have an alternative, non-invasive solution: physical treatment for scoliosis.
Physical therapy for scoliosis involves a series of exercises. Some of them require the supervision of our physiotherapist, chiropractor or osteopath. However, after a while, our practitioners will teach the patient a series of exercises that they can do safely at home.
Physical therapy for scoliosis also includes Schroth exercises. This is a series of exercises aimed at improving posture. Patients are taught how to consciously maintain correct posture during daily activities. By practicing these exercises, the patient’s abdominal, back, pelvis and leg muscles become stronger and are better able to support a correct posture throughout the day.
At Physiowell Chiropractic Physiotherapy and Osteopathy Center, we know that scoliosis damages both your body and your self-esteem. The visible change in your upper body hurts just as much as the actual pain you may experience when the deformed spine pushes your ribcage, muscles or internal organs out of their normal position.
With our advanced techniques of chiropractic adjustments, osteopathic therapy or physiotherapy for scoliosis, we aim to allow you to regain correct posture, stop feeling pain and be able to carry out all your usual activities with peace of mind.
We invite you to obtain an initial evaluation by one of our experienced chiropractors at our clinics in Dubai, UAE.
Most patients who opted for physical therapy for scoliosis came to us at Physiowell with a diagnosis of idiopathic scoliosis (one of three different types of scoliosis that cause the spine to develop an abnormal curve), meaning the causes are unclear. Despite intensive and invasive testing, the underlying cause of his scoliosis remains unknown to healthcare specialists.
The other three types of scoliosis diagnosed by doctors are:
However, no matter what the cause of this condition, all patients can benefit from physical therapy for scoliosis and achieve a better quality of life.
Scoliosis is a progressive condition. If left untreated, it will become increasingly acute and affect the patient’s life, limiting his or her ability to perform regular activities. Some patients may suffer from:
Scoliosis has three phases:
The Cobb angle (curvature of the spine) is less than 20 degrees and not extensively matured. In this phase, the condition can be corrected with scoliosis physical therapy by either of a physiotherapist, osteopath or chiropractor.
The Cobb angle is 40-45 degrees. In this case, a combination of exercises and the use of a brace is recommended.
The Cobb angle exceeds 45 degrees. In this phase, surgery is the main corrective approach, followed by physical therapy for scoliosis.