Love your curves - The truth about scoliosis

Love Your Curves: The Truth about Scoliosis

 There is a lot of stigma around scoliosis. People see it as a life limiting condition. They have to protect their back, avoid heavy lifting and give up contact sports. Patients will come in and say:

“Look at how curved my back is; that’s not right!”

 At this point, I usually shake my head and ask: “Are you in pain, or does your back hurt when you exercise?” To which the answer is usually, “No”. I then say, “Great, let’s have a chat about scoliosis and show you that there is very little to worry about”.

Myth Buster 1:  Scoliosis is not caused by so called “bad posture” or carrying schools bags or wearing skinny jeans – there is simply no evidence to back this up

By definition, scoliosis is a three-dimensional curvature of the spine. It is extremely common. One in twenty five 10-18 year olds will have a scoliosis of some degree. In more than 80% of those cases, the cause is unknown and referred to as Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis and will remain through to adulthood. There does, however, appear to be a genetic link in around a third of cases but the science is still ongoing.  

Myth Buster 2: Having a scoliosis means you will get back pain – FALSE

 Statistically, the biggest symptom people with a scoliosis complain about has nothing to do with pain or dysfunction. It’s actually body image; I will direct you to my earlier anecdote. This could be why girls are 10x more likely to report having a scoliosis than boys. Whilst the incidence of back pain is slightly higher in those with a scoliosis, it is not a certainty and there may be other factors going on.

I have a scoliosis, what do I need to know?

For the vast majority, being diagnosed with a scoliosis is like being diagnosed freckles – it doesn’t tell you a great deal. Whilst some people with severe changes do go onto have corrective surgery, the numbers are extremely low. Ultimately, the back is a pretty robust structure and if you are fit and healthy, you shouldn’t have a problem. That means running, contact sports and weightlifting are not off the table. If you are strong enough, you will be fine.

 Here is a direct quote from the fastest man on the planet discussing his scoliosis:

“My spine’s really curved, bad… but if I keep my core and back strong, the scoliosis doesn’t really bother me. So I don’t have to worry about it as long as I work hard” – Usain Bolt.

In summary, scoliosis is not something to be feared. On the contrary, you should embrace it and love your curves!

If you have questions about exercising with a scoliosis or are experiencing back problems, pop in and see the Refine Health Physiotherapy Team. Our specialist physiotherapists will be happy to help and advise you accordingly.