Scoliosis is a medical condition where the spine has a bend. Many treatment options are available but the results depend heavily on the type and level of scoliosis. However, core strengthening exercises play an important role in the proper management of this condition. Let’s find out why these exercises help and what options you have available if you want a stronger core.

The Importance of Stronger Core for Adult Scoliosis

All the muscles around the spine, pelvis and hip including the diaphragm, support the spine and keep it stable. Those with scoliosis have weak muscles that lack balance, eventually leading to the bending of the spine and other related symptoms. With exercises for scoliosis, particularly core strengthening exercises, you can manage these imbalanced muscles more effectively. 

Effects of Exercises on Spinal Curvature

Many studies have revealed that core strengthening exercises help prevent scoliosis curvature from deteriorating. Cobb Angle measures how much your spinal curvature improves after intervention. A study found that core strengthening exercises positively impacted younger patients with idiopathic scoliosis instead of routine exercises or none.

Better Pain Management and Improved Functionality

Core stabilizing exercises have been known to reduce pain and help with day-to-day functioning for people with scoliosis. A study conducted in 2017 showed that a core strengthening exercise program of 10 weeks significantly improved endurance, muscle strength, and day-to-day functioning in younger patients.

Improved Respiratory Function

Scoliosis can cause serious issues with lung function, as the curvature may limit breathing. However, core strengthening exercises targeting the diaphragm show signs of improvement in respiratory function for scoliosis. It implies that core strengthening exercises are valuable in managing scoliosis, and here’s a bit about why they actually help.

• Enhanced neuromuscular control: Core stabilizing exercises work because they improve muscle strength, which is of immense importance for the proper alignment of the spinal cord. 
• Improved muscle endurance: Regularly training your core helps with scoliosis because it builds endurance. With improved endurance, you’re likely to maintain better posture while performing day-to-day activities. 
• Improved proprioception: Including core exercises in your routine can help make your body more aware of your posture, which goes a long way in preventing the worsening of spinal curvature. 
• Balanced weight distribution: Core muscles stabilize your body and also make it easier for your spine to bear your body’s weight more evenly. This helps slow down the progression of scoliosis. 

Core Strengthening Exercises to Try

As you may have already gathered, you need core strength to support the natural curve of your spine. And it’s also essential for anyone dealing with adult scoliosis. However, you may be wondering how you find the best core exercises to include in your routine. 

While you should definitely talk to your physiotherapist and healthcare provider, some exercises are generally safe for people with scoliosis. Here’s what you can try to improve the quality of your life, especially when you use them with scoliosis-specific rehab. 

Spider

Stand up in a relaxed position with your face toward the wall. Keep your feet together and lean forward. Now, place your hands on the wall and slowly lift them up. Once they are in line with your chest, slowly walk your fingers up. Be sure to keep your abs tight. Keep moving up until you take your arms above your hands. Now stretch a bit more and lift your heels to reach up. Maintain the position for a few seconds and then slowly return to the starting position.

Pelvic Tilts

Lie on the floor with your face towards the ceiling. Bend your knees and keep your arms at your sides. Now, slowly curl your pelvic bone inward while keeping your buttocks and belly tight. Don’t move your lower back and keep it flat against the floor. Be in that position for a few seconds and then return to the starting position.

Practical Application of Core Exercises in Clinical Scoliosis Management 

There are a few elements that need to be kept in mind when implementing core strengthening exercises into clinical scoliosis management. 

• Personalization: Keep in mind that every patient is different and responds differently to these exercises. What works for you depends on the severity of your problem. Be sure to work with your therapist to ensure you have an exercise plan tailored to your needs.
• Advancement: The exercises should begin easy and get difficult as you get accustomed to the routine. It’s important to avoid any injury.
• Combined treatment: Be sure to work with your healthcare provider and use exercises with standard treatment options. You need to have a scoliosis management program that should include core strengthening exercises for quicker recovery.

Endnote

Many studies and practical trials now lead to the conclusion that core strengthening exercises play a positive role in scoliosis management. They help manage pain, enhance day-to-day functionality and stop the progression of the spinal curvature. Yes, further studies are needed to refine exercise routines and protocols, but working with an expert will still help manage scoliosis more effectively.