One of the most common fears parents have after a scoliosis diagnosis is that their child will need to stop sport or avoid physical activity. In reality, most children and teenagers with scoliosis can and should stay active with the right guidance.

Why Sport Matters

Staying active builds strength, cardiovascular fitness, and confidence. For young people with scoliosis, it can also:

• Support core and back muscle endurance.
• Maintain flexibility and balance.
• Improve mood, reduce anxiety, and boost self-esteem.

There is no evidence that sensible sporting participation worsens curves when monitored and treated appropriately. In fact we believe that a healthy strong body will better adapt to any scoliosis specific therapy including bracing, improve mental health and allow you to prepare for a life after bracing with a strong spine.

Generally Safe Sports

Most non-contact and moderate-contact sports are safe for scoliosis patients, including:

• Swimming.
• Cycling.
• Running and athletics.
• Dancing.
• Football and netball (with some caveats).

Dorsi Spinal Institute assesses each patient individually, but in general we encourage continued participation in these activities.

Sports Requiring Caution

Some sports may require modifications or closer monitoring, especially for patients with larger curves, pain, or those in bracing:

• High-impact gymnastics or trampolining.
• Heavy weightlifting (especially overhead lifts without supervision).
• Contact sports such as rugby at elite levels.

We rarely recommend complete avoidance, but we may suggest technique adjustments, strength pre-conditioning, or limits on high-risk movements.

Exercising in a Brace

Many brace wearers can still participate in sports. Sometimes the brace is worn during low-impact activities and removed for high-intensity sport, depending on the treatment plan. Dorsi clinicians provide clear instructions tailored to each child.

When to Stop or Adjust

We advise seeking review if sport causes:

• Persistent or worsening back pain.
• Leg weakness, numbness, or pins and needles.
• Breathlessness out of proportion to effort.

In these cases, we may adjust bracing, exercise intensity, or investigate for other issues.

How Dorsi Spinal Institute Supports Active Lifestyles

We work with families, schools, and coaches to create realistic, healthy activity plans. Where needed, we provide letters outlining restrictions or recommendations, and help young athletes return to sport after surgery or major treatment.

Next Steps

If you’re unsure what sports are safe for your child—or yourself—book a consultation at Dorsi Spinal Institute. We’ll create a personalised activity roadmap that keeps you moving safely and happily.

Related reading: see our blogs on swimming, dance and more, and scoliosis-specific exercise.

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Scoliosis Specific Exercises

Not all exercise is equal when it comes to managing scoliosis. General fitness is helpful, but scoliosis-specific exercises are designed to counteract curve mechanics, improve posture, and reinforce brace correction.

What Makes an Exercise “Scoliosis-Specific”?

These exercises:

• Target muscles that support and de-rotate the spine.
• Focus on asymmetrical strengthening and stretching.
• Teach three-dimensional postural correction and awareness.

Examples of Evidence-Based Method Scoliosis Specific Exercises

At Dorsi Spinal Institute, we use approaches such as:

• Schroth method: combining breathing, postural, and rotational exercises.
• SEAS (Scientific Exercise Approach to Scoliosis): emphasising active self-correction and functional tasks.

Combining them into an approach called ScoliBalance

Benefits of Scoliosis Specific Exercise

Research suggests that, particularly when combined with bracing, these exercises can:

• Reduce pain and fatigue.
• Improve posture and cosmetic appearance.
• Contribute to stabilising or improving curves.

Personalised Programmes

Exercises are tailored to:

• Curve type and location.
• Age and growth stage.
• Brace wear schedule.

Dorsi physios teach patients in-clinic and then provide home plans and digital support.

Next Steps

If you want targeted exercise that truly supports your curve, rather than just general fitness, Dorsi Spinal Institute can design a scoliosis-specific programme that fits your needs and schedule.

Related reading: see our blogs on Schroth and SEAS, bracing plus exercise, and spine-friendly sports.

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Scoliosis Exercise Study

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Title: An Introduction to Scoliosis Treatment Through Exercise

Keywords: Scoliosis treatment, scoliosis exercises, Schroth method, SEAS, ScoliBalance

Scoliosis, a condition characterised by an abnormal curvature of the spine, can be managed and treated through various non-surgical methods. One such approach is scoliosis-specific exercises, which aim to strengthen and stretch the muscles surrounding the spine, promoting better posture and reducing the progression of the spinal curve. In this article, we will explore the benefits of scoliosis exercises and introduce some popular exercise methods, including the Schroth method, SEAS, and ScoliBalance.

Benefits of Scoliosis Exercises:

1. Strengthening muscles: Targeted exercises can help strengthen the muscles supporting the spine, reducing the risk of muscle imbalance and promoting better overall posture.
2. Improving flexibility: Scoliosis exercises can increase the flexibility of the spine and surrounding muscles, making it easier for patients to maintain a proper posture.
3. Reducing pain: By strengthening and stretching the muscles, scoliosis exercises can help alleviate pain caused by muscle tension and spinal misalignment.
4. Slowing curve progression: Regular scoliosis exercises can slow down the progression of the spinal curve, reducing the need for more invasive treatments.

Schroth Method: The Schroth method is a physiotherapeutic scoliosis treatment developed in Germany in the 1920s. It involves a series of exercises tailored to each patient's specific spinal curvature, focusing on elongating the spine, de-rotating the ribcage, and correcting spinal imbalances. The exercises are usually performed under the supervision of a certified Schroth therapist, who will guide the patient through the proper techniques and ensure their safety.

SEAS (Scientific Exercise Approach to Scoliosis): SEAS is an exercise-based treatment approach developed in Italy, focusing on improving spinal stability, posture, and overall function. The exercises in SEAS therapy are individualized for each patient and are designed to be easily incorporated into daily life. SEAS therapy aims to teach patients how to self-manage their condition and maintain proper posture in everyday activities.

ScoliBalance: ScoliBalance is a personalized exercise program that combines elements of both the Schroth method and SEAS therapy. The program is designed to address the specific needs of each patient, focusing on spinal alignment, muscle balance, and functional improvements. ScoliBalance exercises can be performed at home, making it a convenient option for patients looking to manage their scoliosis through exercise.

Scoliosis-specific exercises can be an effective, non-surgical treatment option for managing spinal curvature and improving overall function. The Schroth method, SEAS, and ScoliBalance are just a few examples of exercise-based therapies that can help patients with scoliosis. It is essential to work with a scoliosis specialist, such as Dr. Matthew Potts at Dorsi.uk or Spinex Disc Clinic, to develop a personalized exercise plan that meets your unique needs and goals.

Keywords: Scoliosis treatment, scoliosis exercises, Schroth method, SEAS, ScoliBalance

Title: The Role of the Schroth Method in Scoliosis Treatment

Keywords: Scoliosis treatment, scoliosis exercises, Schroth method, SEAS, ScoliBalance

Introduction: The Schroth method is a well-established physiotherapeutic treatment for scoliosis, aimed at improving spinal alignment, reducing pain, and slowing down the progression of the spinal curve. Developed in the 1920s in Germany, the Schroth method has gained popularity worldwide as a non-surgical scoliosis treatment option. In this article, we will discuss the principles of the Schroth method, its benefits, and how it compares to other exercise-based scoliosis treatments.

Schroth Method Principles: The Schroth method is based on three main principles:

1. Elongation: The exercises focus on lengthening the spine, reducing pressure on the intervertebral discs and helping to correct spinal imbalances.
2. De-rotation: The method aims to de-rotate the ribcage and spine, addressing the three-dimensional aspect of scoliosis.
3. Breathing: Specific breathing techniques are employed to help reshape the ribcage and improve overall spinal alignment.

Benefits of the Schroth Method:

1. Pain relief: By addressing spinal imbalances and promoting better posture, the Schroth method can help alleviate pain caused by muscle tension and misaligned vertebrae.
2. Improved posture: The exercises help to correct spinal alignment and promote better overall posture, leading to increased self-confidence and a better quality of life.
3. Slowing curve progression: Regular practice of the Schroth method exercises can slow down the progression of the spinal curve, reducing the likelihood of more invasive treatments in the future.
4. Enhanced body awareness: The Schroth method teaches patients to become more aware of their body and posture, enabling them to self-correct and maintain proper alignment in daily activities.

Comparing the Schroth Method to SEAS and ScoliBalance: While the Schroth method is a well-established scoliosis treatment, there are other exercise-based treatment options, such as SEAS (Scientific Exercise Approach to Scoliosis) and ScoliBalance.

SEAS focuses on improving spinal stability, posture, and overall function through individualized exercises that can be easily incorporated into daily life. SEAS therapy aims to teach patients how to self-manage their condition and maintain proper posture in everyday activities.

ScoliBalance is a personalized exercise program that combines elements of both the Schroth method and SEAS therapy. It addresses each patient's specific needs, focusing on spinal alignment, muscle balance, and functional improvements. ScoliBalance exercises can be performed at home, making it a convenient option for patients looking to manage their scoliosis through exercise.

Conclusion: The Schroth method is a valuable treatment option for individuals with scoliosis, offering benefits such as pain relief, improved posture, and slowed curve progression. However, it is essential to work with a scoliosis specialist, such as Dr. Matthew Potts at Dorsi.uk or Spinex Disc Clinic, to determine the most suitable treatment approach for your unique needs and goals. Whether it's the Schroth method, SEAS, or ScoliBalance, a personalized exercise plan can make a significant difference in managing scoliosis effectively.

Scoliosis treatment, scoliosis exercises, Schroth method, SEAS, ScoliBalance

Scoliosis Exercises for Teens and Adults: Strengthening and Stretching for a Healthier Spine

Keywords: Scoliosis treatment, scoliosis exercises, Schroth method, SEAS, ScoliBalance

Scoliosis exercises are an essential component of non-surgical scoliosis treatment for both teens and adults. These targeted exercises aim to strengthen and stretch the muscles surrounding the spine, promoting better posture and reducing the progression of the spinal curve. In this article, we will discuss different scoliosis exercise methods, such as the Schroth method, SEAS, and ScoliBalance, and how they can benefit individuals with scoliosis.

The Schroth Method: The Schroth method is a scoliosis-specific exercise program developed in Germany in the 1920s. This method focuses on:

1. Elongating the spine and correcting imbalances through specific postures and breathing techniques.
2. Strengthening the muscles that support the spine to help maintain the corrected posture.
3. Increasing body awareness to help patients maintain proper spinal alignment during daily activities.

SEAS (Scientific Exercise Approach to Scoliosis): The SEAS method is an evidence-based approach to scoliosis treatment that focuses on:

1. Improving spinal stability and alignment through targeted exercises.
2. Enhancing neuromotor control and proprioception to help patients maintain proper spinal alignment.
3. Personalizing the exercise program based on the individual's unique needs and goals.

ScoliBalance: ScoliBalance is a comprehensive scoliosis rehabilitation program that includes:

1. Assessment and identification of muscle imbalances and postural deviations.
2. Customised exercise plans designed to strengthen and stretch the muscles surrounding the spine.
3. Regular progress evaluations to ensure the effectiveness of the programme and make any necessary adjustments.

Benefits of Scoliosis Exercises: Incorporating scoliosis-specific exercises into a treatment plan can offer several benefits, including:

1. Slowing curve progression: Targeted exercises can help slow down the progression of the spinal curve, potentially reducing the need for more invasive treatments in the future.
2. Pain relief: Strengthening and stretching the muscles that support the spine can help alleviate pain caused by muscle tension and misaligned vertebrae.
3. Improved posture: By addressing spinal imbalances, scoliosis exercises can help improve overall posture, leading to increased self-confidence and a better quality of life.

Conclusion: Scoliosis exercises, such as the Schroth method, SEAS, and ScoliBalance, play a vital role in non-surgical scoliosis treatment for both teens and adults. By working with a scoliosis specialist, such as Dr. Matthew Potts at Dorsi.uk or Spinex Disc Clinic, patients can receive personalised care and develop a treatment plan that incorporates targeted exercises to effectively manage their scoliosis and improve their quality of life.