Scoliosis Exercise

Scoliosis is not a disease, but is an affliction that occurs when there are abnormal lateral curves in the spinal columns. While this can be the result of spine deformities at birth or the result of neuromuscular problems, most cases of Scoliosis have no known cause; it just seems to affect about two per cent of all women, and 0.5 per cent of all men. Because this affliction often runs in the family, be sure to see a physician if someone in your family has it. Early detection is crucial to treating the affliction effectively. If you have a growing curve in your spine, your doctor will recommend bracing or even surgery. If you have a minor problem, you can seek alternative therapies such as chiropractic, scoliosis exercise, nutritional supplements, and physical therapy.

Exercises

Scoliosis exercise will make the muscles of your back, shoulders, and neck flexible and strong. Your exercise regimen could include leg and arm extensions, back extensions, triceps raises, bent-over raises, standing raises, upright rows, and one-arm rows. You can find many great exercises on the internet that will be effective. You can also get a list of exercises from your physical therapist or chiropractor. This is a better option since they will choose a scoliosis exercise program specifically for you and can monitor your progress.

Examples

Many Scoliosis exercises are performed with the assistance of an exercise ball. The first is the leg and arm extensions. To do these you start by placing your hips over the ball. Lift your one hand up while keeping your right palm down. Lift your leg up and count three seconds. Switching sides, perform three sets of 10 reps. Be sure to take a small break in between sets. Another scoliosis exercise is the back extension; begin with your stomach on the ball and your knees on the mat. Fall forward and relax. Making your back parallel to the ball, raise your arms and stretch them out so that they are parallel with the ball and hold for five seconds. Try five sets of 10 reps. One more scoliosis exercise is the triceps raise; sit on the ball with your feet flat on the mat. Now square your back perfectly straight.  Using weights and drop your right hand behind your head; use your left hand to keep it in place. Now lift the right hand above your head and squeeze the back of your arm. Lower your arm again and you are finished. Try three sets of 10 on each side.

If you include these or other scoliosis exercises into your scoliosis exercise program, than you are certain to see some result.