What exercises are good for scoliosis?
Below are a few exercises to help with the symptoms of scoliosis. The exercises are divided into the different regions of the back. Thoracic Scoliosis - Thoracic scoliosis refers to a lateral deformity within the middle (thoracic) portion of the spine, which is the most common location for a spinal curvature abnormality. Thoracic scoliosis is usually related to a deformity of the ribcage as well as the spine, which may have ramifications on shoulder elevation, transverse trunk mobility and, in severe cases, breathing. Lattisimus dorsi - Lie on your side with one arm outstretched on a roller placed just above armpit. - To lengthen the latissimus dorsi, point the thumb up. - Apply a light amount of pressure with minimal movement over the length of the lattisimus dorsi - If a knot or tender location is found, stop movement and rest in that position until pain subsides and release is achieved. Trapezius/Rhomboid/Posterior Deltoid - Place a ball between the wall and the upper part of the trapezius (trap). - Slightly turn away from the wall. - You will roll back on the ball throughout the upper and mid trapezius, working it toward the posterior deltoid and then between the scapula and spine until knots or tender spots are found. - Lift arm straight out and continue to apply pressure on the tender location. Lumbar Scoliosis - Lumbar scoliosis refers to a curvature within the lower (lumbar) portion of the spine. Individuals with lumbar scoliosis could also be more likely to exhibit pelvic asymmetry, leg length discrepancies and low-back pain. Erector Spinae/Serratus Posterior/Multifidus - Place a ball between the wall and lower back on the concave side of the spinal curve Slightly turn away from the wall. - Roll back on the ball in both vertical and diagonal patterns to deal with several layers of musculature from the L5-T11 portions of the spine. - If a knot or tender location is found, stop movement and rest in that position until pain subsides and release is achieved.