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SCOLIOSIS AND SPORTS: STAYING ACTIVE

A scoliosis diagnosis doesn’t mean kissing sports goodbye. In fact, it’s recommended that individuals with scoliosis stay active. Here’s how.

BENEFITS OF SPORTS

Sports and specific exercise have proven to stop scoliosis progression and reduce curvature by retraining the brain to correct the spine’s posture.

Sports…

  • Strengthen core muscles that support the spine

  • Keep the body nimble

  • Prevent stiffness

  • Support overall health

  • Boost self-esteem

SPORTS THAT HELP

Sports that require using both sides of the body, are low impact, and utilize burst training, are extremely beneficial for those with scoliosis.

SWIMMING

Swimming is recommended because it uses the body’s muscles in a balanced and symmetrical fashion.

SOCCER

Soccer strengthens the core muscles of the thoracic spine, which is why it’s helpful for individuals with curvature in the mid-back.

CROSS-COUNTRY SKIING

Skiing minimizes shock o the vertebra and works both sides of the body, which supports a strong and balanced spine.

STRENGTH TRAINING

Individuals with spinal problems shouldn’t avoid strength training. Stronger muscles help the spine. It’s important, however, to increase weight very slowly during strength training to avoid adding stress to the spine.

STRETCHING

Regular stretching relieves tension, restores range of motion, and counteracts the spine’s curvature. Individuals need to be sure they don’t hyperextend or severely rotate the spine, though.

WHAT TO AVOID

COMPRESSING THE SPINE

  • High-impact activities

  • Squatting

  • Lifting weight over the head

  • Hard landings

    • Cheerleading

    • Gymnastics

  • Long-distance running

    • More than 400 meters

  • HYPEREXTEND THE MID-BACK

  • Repeatedly extending the thoracic spine

  • Back bends

    • Ballet

    • Gymnastics

    • Yoga

  • UNEVENLY WORK THE SPINE

  • Sports that work one side of the body more than the other

  • Figure skating

    • Tennis

    • Skiing

    • Javelin throwing

  • Your spine is important, and you need expert doctors who understand both conservative and surgical treatments. If you need spine care, contact Sonoran Spine.