Scoliosis is a medical condition where the spine develops an abnormal curvature, and can cause pain, discomfort, and restricted mobility. However, with proper management and care, you can improve your mobility and manage symptoms. Your primary medical provider and spinal specialist should work with you to develop a scoliosis management plan to optimize your health, which may include a range of medical as well as holistic treatments. One common way many of our patients here at the Spine and Scoliosis Center utilize to help with their scoliosis symptoms is practicing core-strengthening exercises such as yoga or pilates. Here’s a quick breakdown of how yoga and pilates may be able to help. 

What Is Yoga and Pilates?

Yoga and Pilates have blown up in the last decade – Even if you’re not a regular gym goer or fitness fanatic, it’s likely you’ve at least heard the terms tossed around. Yoga and pilates are two distinct forms of exercise boasting similar benefits for overall health and wellness, and are both particularly beneficial for those who suffer from scoliosis. 

Yoga is a blanket term for a set of mental, physical, and spiritual practices originating in India more than three thousand years ago. In the West, we typically associate yoga with breathwork and flexibility techniques. Hatha yoga, for example, is very popular. This form of yoga employs certain poses and breathwork to strengthen muscles and connective tissues, promote flexibility, and align the vertebrae. Studies have shown regular Hatha yoga practice to stimulate several body systems and positively impact the brain.

Developed by German trainer Joseph Pilates during WWI, Pilates is an exercise routine that helps to address posture, muscular imbalances, and flexibility through focusing on the core muscles. There are different kinds of Pilates – some of which utilize machines – but floor pilates workouts typically consist of low-impact muscular endurance and strength movements performed on an exercise mat. 

Both yoga and pilates are easily adapted to any level of fitness, and you can progress through regular practice to continue challenging yourself while reaping better results. 

How Yoga and Pilates Can Help With Scoliosis

So how can breathing and stretching actually help your scoliosis? Let’s look at the data. In a small study investigating asymmetrical strengthening, scientists had 25 participants with idiopathic scoliosis incorporate a side plank (a common pose in yoga and pilates) into their daily routine for 6 months. After the allotted time was up, 19 out of the 25 participants showed a 40% reduction of curvature. While every person’s scoliosis is different, there are also other many health benefits of yoga and pilates that can help with overall health and managing scoliosis symptoms, such as:

• Better posture 
• Improved respiratory capacity
• Stronger core muscles, which act as a “corset” around your spine
• Deeper relaxation and better sleep, which leads to better pain management

Contact Us Today

Remember – always get clearance from your doctor before you run off to your local yoga studio or gym. Moreover, it’s probably a good idea to go over any routines with a chiropractor or physical therapist so they can make suggestions, as you don’t want to aggravate your condition with exercises that may potentially cause injury. If you’re looking for a spinal specialist to treat your scoliosis, The Spine and Scoliosis Center is a top spinal clinic with locations throughout Florida. Call The Spine and Scoliosis Center to schedule an appointment today.