Scoliosis mainly appears in children, but it can also develop as a teenager (adolescent idiopathic) and as an adult (degenerative, traumatic, or pathological). There aren’t many symptoms during the early stages, particularly with children, but scoliosis is known to cause pain, especially in adults.
The pain experienced with adult-onset scoliosis is often the result of pressure on the spinal discs. When there is an abnormal curvature of the spine, it can irritate, stretch, or squish the nerves. It can also affect one’s posture, which can strain the joints and tightening of surrounding muscles, causing pain and discomfort.
The level of pain can differ from person to person, depending on age, severity, and form of the condition. Some patients feel pain in areas other than the back, such as the neck, hips, legs, and feet. These effects are due to the lower body’s spinal misalignment. The best way to bring relief from pain and discomfort is to reduce or return the spine’s curvature to where it was before progression.
There are a number of back pain scoliosis treatment approaches available to you:
Strengthening Exercises. In mild cases, the curvature of the spine can be improved with specific exercises and stretches. Exercises that aim to strengthen the stomach and back (core) muscles, such as Pilates and yoga, are highly recommended. When a body is in regular motion, it is more adaptable and flexible to handle scoliosis rigors. It can improve posture, balance, joint mobility and soothe back pain.
Schroth Method. This nonsurgical approach to scoliosis treatment is based on exercises tailored to each patient’s spine curvature. Schroth physical therapy is goal is to de-rotate, elongate, and stabilize the spine in a three-dimensional plane. It involves teaching a patient proper breathing technique and finding a posture that relieves pain.
Hydrotherapy. This form of scoliosis physiotherapy combines the techniques used in physical rehabilitation and water-based exercises. A patient is immersed in warm water to relax the body. Buoyancy or the water’s upward pressure can ease stress on muscles and joints, soothing joint swelling and scoliosis pain. Because pain is reduced during the therapy, patients can exercise and achieve good results in improving the curvature’s degree.
Scoliosis Brace. Braces are among the most common treatments for people diagnosed with scoliosis and those suffering from pain associated with it. However, it should only be used if recommended by a medical professional. Quality bracing for scoliosis is designed to slow or stop the progression of the spinal curvature.
Scoliosis-related pain is more likely to go away if the curvature is diagnosed early and treated promptly. It’s important to work with an experienced team that can develop a treatment plan for pain management. Gain back the freedom of movement you deserve with the help of NorAlign. Whether you’re a child, adult, or professional athlete, we work with you one-on-one for customized scoliosis treatment. Book an appointment today at +971 4 340 0017.