‘Scoliosis’ and ‘Physiotherapy’ are likely two terms that you may have heard thrown together. If you have been recently diagnosed with scoliosis, physiotherapy is probably something you have been recommended.

But what exactly is scoliosis and how does physiotherapy help?

In this blog, we’ll take a closer look into the role of physiotherapy in managing scoliosis.

First of all – what is scoliosis?

Scoliosis is a common health condition characterised by a sideways (lateral) curvature and rotation of the spine. These changes to the spine can lead to secondary effects such as pain, changes in posture, muscle tightness or imbalances, and potential functional limitations. For some people, the degree of curvature may be minimal and have no detrimental effect on daily activities or quality of life. However, those with larger spinal curves are at greater risk of curve progression, which in turn increases the likelihood of these secondary effects developing. Physiotherapy is typically a first-line treatment option to assist with the management of scoliosis.

Goals of Physiotherapy

When we talk about ‘scoliosis management’, what do we actually mean, and how can your physiotherapist help?

Physiotherapy rehabilitation is typically a long-term collaborative process between the physiotherapist and patient. Depending on your individual presentation and goals, treatment aims to:

• Optimise movement and function for daily activities.

Your physiotherapist will develop an individualised treatment plan to improve your ability to complete everyday activities, including work, sport, and hobbies. This commonly involves targeted exercise prescription to improve mobility, strength, stability, and endurance.

• Alleviate symptoms such as pain, stiffness, and tightness.

Your physiotherapist may incorporate additional treatment techniques such as manual therapy, electrophysical therapy, dry needling, acupuncture, taping, and pain-modification exercises to help alleviate scoliosis-related symptoms.

• Improve posture and postural endurance.

For people with scoliosis, changes in posture can contribute to curve progression and the development of secondary symptoms. Your physiotherapist will prescribe scoliosis-specific exercises to encourage optimal spinal alignment, as well as exercises to improve your ability to maintain this posture over prolonged periods (postural endurance).

• Provide advice and education to support self-management.

Understanding your condition is an important part of long-term scoliosis management. Your physiotherapist can help you better understand your scoliosis and provide practical strategies to manage your symptoms and maintain your progress between appointments.

• Prescribe additional supports where appropriate.

If required, your physiotherapist may recommend supports or equipment to improve function or help relieve symptoms, such as lumbar supports, taping, orthotics, heel wedges, or walking aids. Please note that custom-made scoliosis-specific braces designed for spinal correction require assessment and fitting by a physiotherapist with specialised training.

• Minimise scoliosis progression.

For many people, physiotherapy is not a one-off treatment but an ongoing process. Regular reviews allow your physiotherapist to monitor your spinal curvature, identify any signs of progression, and adjust your management plan as needed. Without appropriate monitoring and management, scoliosis may progress over time and lead to worsening symptoms.

• Screen for serious conditions and refer when necessary.

Physiotherapists are trained to identify signs that may indicate a more serious underlying condition or the need for additional medical assessment and treatment. Where appropriate, they can refer you to other healthcare professionals or specialist services to ensure you receive the most appropriate care.

If you’re someone diagnosed with scoliosis, or believe you may have scoliosis, don’t wait to seek advice. Early assessment and treatment can make a significant difference in management of scoliosis and achieving the best possible outcomes. Book in today at UniquePhysio and together we’ll develop a personalised rehabilitation plan to help you move forward with confidence.