School & Scoliosis—PE, Bags & Classroom Support
For school‑age children with scoliosis, daily routines—carrying bags, sitting in lessons, joining PE—raise practical questions. With good planning, most pupils participate fully.
PE and Physical Activity at School
Dorsi guides parents and schools on:
- Which activities can continue normally.
- Which need modification (e.g. heavy contact, certain gymnastics).
- When temporary exemptions are appropriate, such as post‑surgery periods.
Bags, Lockers & Equipment
We often recommend:
- Using lockers to avoid carrying all books all day.
- Backpacks with both straps worn and proper adjustment.
- Rolling bags when loads are unavoidable.
Classroom Seating & Support
Dorsi provides letters and reports requesting:
- Flexible seating and ability to change position.
- Access to ergonomic chairs if needed.
- Allowance for short movement breaks.
Next Steps
If scoliosis is complicating school life for your child, Dorsi Spinal Institute can work directly with teachers and SENCOs to create a practical support plan.
Related reading: see our blogs on teen life, emotional support, and disability rights in education.
Written by
Dr Matthew ABJ Potts BSc MSc DC ISPRM
Clinical Director
Doctor of Chiropractic
Specialist Scoliosis Consultant
Fellow of the British Scoliosis Society
Member of the Scoliosis Association (UK)
Chair of the Clinical Advisory Board at Meloq AB
Member of the International Society of Physical and Rehabilitation Medicine
Editorial board member of international journals CICRJ & Rehabilitation Science
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