SCOLIOSIS (SPINAL CURVATURE) IS NOT A DISEASE BUT A SYMPTOM!

Scoliosis is the name given to the spinal curvature that occurs at all ages, especially during adolescence. "Three-Dimensional Spine Therapy" is applied to control and correct scoliosis. Scoliosis exercises are performed to correct posture, stop the progression of spinal curvature, and even correct the curvature itself. If a person is using a brace, it also facilitates adaptation to the brace.

So, what is spinal curvature, spinal deformity? How does it get corrected? What are the Schroth exercises applied in scoliosis treatment?

What Is Spinal Deformity?

The spine, when viewed from the back, has an almost completely linear appearance, but when viewed from the side, it is natural to have some curves. These curves are physiological curves. There are 3 curves: in the neck, back, and waist.

In some cases, changes can occur in the structural functions and natural position of the spine.

Types of Spinal Deformities

Scoliosis

Scoliosis is the most well-known spinal deformity. It can be defined as curvatures occurring in the horizontal plane of the spine, exceeding 10 degrees. However, contrary to popular belief, scoliosis involves a three-dimensional curvature rather than a two-dimensional one.

In scoliosis, it is observed that besides the curvatures to the right and left in some bones of the spine, more serious structural abnormalities such as the rotation of the spine on its own axis also occur. These types of curvatures are a common condition that affects many children and adolescents.

Examining the symptoms through observation in scoliosis can lead to early diagnosis. During observation:

One shoulder blade being higher than the other

One shoulder being higher or lower than the other

While one side of the waist remains straight, folds in the skin due to curvature on the other side

Signs such as unilateral elevation and depression in the waist area should be considered; expert physicians should be consulted for early diagnosis and treatment.

Kyphosis

It can be defined as the condition of the spine bending forward. Physiological (completely natural) curves in the spine can increase due to certain reasons. In cases of kyphosis, these physiological curves are not within standard values. The curvature, which should be between 20 and 50 degrees, has increased, leading to hunchback.

Lordosis

Lordosis is an increased natural curvature in the waist area. The body weight exerting pressure on the spine often causes pain. It appears as a C-shape in the waist.

Causes of Spinal Deformities

Spinal deformities can arise from several different reasons. While cases are usually idiopathic (of unknown origin), other causes are likely to be involved. Spinal wear and tear over time, issues during prenatal development, pediatric, neuromuscular conditions, physical errors during the spine's growth process, trauma, accidents, or injuries may lead to spinal deformities.

In some cases, other spinal deformities may be the cause of another deformity.

The main treatments for spinal deformities are Schroth Exercises and brace use. During treatment, Schroth exercises and braces specifically designed for scoliosis are usually recommended to stabilize the curvature and stop its progression. Surgical intervention may be required for curvatures exceeding 50 degrees.

The main purpose of scoliosis exercises is to prevent the curvature from worsening, if possible, to reverse it, to correct posture, and to preserve lung capacity. Thus, scoliosis can be controlled and treated without the need for surgery.

When scoliosis is diagnosed, especially if there is an increase in the degree of curvature, patients are advised to start scoliosis exercises.

Exercises specific to scoliosis treatment and the use of corsets, which are also accepted by the International Society on Scoliosis Orthopedic and Rehabilitation Treatment (SOSORT), are basic treatment methods used to reduce scoliosis degrees without surgery.

Scoliosis exercises and brace therapy are organized at a center specializing in spinal care, and if the individual with scoliosis adheres to the treatment and follow-ups, scoliosis can be controlled by approximately 70-80%.

Schroth method exercises are performed by physiotherapists specialized in Schroth exercises. These exercises, which require adjustments by monitoring breathing and body position, are performed under the supervision of a therapist. Effective results can be achieved with individualized treatment programs created by a certified physiotherapist specializing in Schroth, in a physical therapy and rehabilitation center.