Sports-Specific Advice—Swimming, Gym, Dance & More
Beyond general “yes/no” answers, families want detailed guidance on particular sports: swimming, gym training, dance, martial arts, and more. With the right modifications, many remain safe and beneficial.
Swimming
Swimming is often excellent for stamina, flexibility, and confidence. We tailor stroke and training plans to avoid overloading one side or reinforcing asymmetric patterns.
Gym & Strength Training
Properly coached gym work can:
- Improve core and hip strength.
- Support bracing outcomes.
- Boost bone density.
We caution against unsupervised heavy lifting, especially overhead, in younger patients.
Dance & Performing Arts
Dance is usually compatible with scoliosis treatment. Dorsi helps adapt certain moves or ranges of motion and guides brace wear around rehearsals and performances.
Martial Arts & Contact Sports
These can often continue with sensible limits. We advise on falls, impacts, and conditioning to protect the spine, especially in brace wearers or post-surgical patients.
Next Steps
If you or your child participates in a specific sport, Dorsi Spinal Institute can provide tailored advice rather than generic “yes/no” rules, helping you stay active safely.
Related reading: see our blogs on sports safety, scoliosis-specific exercise, and post-surgery sport.
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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