What is Scoliosis?

Scoliosis is the unnatural curvature of the spine. The natural “S” curve visible when viewed from the side is there to absorb shock during movement. But from the front or back, the spine should look fairly straight. If the spine swerves to the side you might have scoliosis.

The American Association of Neurological Surgeons (AANS) defines scoliosis for us. Scoliosis is diagnosed when the back-to-front imaging shows a curve of the spine that’s at least 10 degrees. Doctors consider it significant if the spinal curvature is off by at least 25 to 30 degrees. Severe scoliosis is when it exceeds 45 or 50 degrees.

Congenital Scoliosis

Congenital scoliosis happens before a baby is born. Malformations in just one or two vertebrae can change the curvature of the spine and cause other deformities. Doctors usually diagnose this type of scoliosis earlier because it’s present at birth.

Neuromuscular Scoliosis

Neuromuscular scoliosis comes from spinal cord trauma or neurological or muscular conditions. These include things like cerebral palsy, muscular dystrophy, spina bifida, and Marfan’s syndrome. Neuromuscular scoliosis tends to worsen over time and may eventually need surgery.

Degenerative Scoliosis

Degeneration from arthritis or osteoporosis can lead to scoliosis in older adults. The spinal discs start to break down, causing the spine to lose its normal shape. Degeneration is most common in the lumbar spine (lower back) and in those 65 and older.

Yoga for Scoliosis

Regular yoga practice may also help. A 2014 study from Columbia University found a particular yoga pose could improve scoliosis in as little as 3 months. They just had to hold it for 90 seconds at least 3 days a week. What is that pose? The side plank.

The study involved 25 scoliosis patients between the ages of 14 and 85. They started by holding the pose for 10 to 20 seconds a day on the side their spine curved toward. Then they worked up to holding it as long as possible once a day. On average, they held the pose a minute and a half a day for six days a week for over six months.

The results? Side planks improved spine curvature by about 32% for all patients. Yoga classes have even popped up specifically for scoliosis.

The Bottom Line on Scoliosis

If you suspect scoliosis, you’ll likely want to see your chiropractor or practitioner and get diagnosed. If you’re committing to improving it naturally, first take a look at your diet. Processed sugar and refined carbs don’t do us any favors. And adding in mineral rich whole foods is also a must.

From there, you can review the various types of bodywork mentioned above. Everyone is different and has their own timelines and goals.