Scoliosis is a condition causing the spine to curve sideways. As such, it affects posture, mobility, and quality of life. You may benefit via physiotherapy if you or someone you know has scoliosis.
A scoliosis physiotherapist in Singapore can help improve spinal alignment, reduce pain, and prevent further complications. In this blog post, you will learn about the role of physiotherapy in scoliosis management and rehabilitation in Singapore. And also discover how physiotherapy can help you live better with scoliosis.
What is Scoliosis?
It is a condition that affects the spine, and it can cause discomfort and pain in the back and neck. It is characterised by an abnormal curvature of the spine, which can be C-shaped or S-shaped.
People of all ages can be affected by scoliosis. It is most commonly diagnosed during adolescence when growth spurts occur. However, it can also affect adults with previous spinal surgeries or injuries.
Scoliosis can be attributed to a variety of potential causes, such as:
Idiopathic Scoliosis: This is the most common type, and its precise cause is unknown. It often appears during adolescence and may have a genetic component, as it can run in families. However, it is not directly caused by poor posture, carrying heavy backpacks, or other common misconceptions.
Congenital Scoliosis: This type is caused by abnormal spine development in the womb. It can result from genetic factors or exposure to certain toxins during pregnancy.
Neuromuscular Scoliosis: Underlying neuromuscular conditions like cerebral palsy, muscular dystrophy, or spinal cord abnormalities can cause this type of scoliosis. The condition affects the muscles and nerves that control the spine's alignment.
The symptoms
The symptoms of scoliosis vary depending on the severity of the curvature. Mild cases may not cause any symptoms, while severe cases can cause discomfort and pain. Some common symptoms include:
Uneven shoulders or hips
A visible curve in the spine
Back pain
Fatigue
If you suspect that you have scoliosis or are experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s important to seek medical attention right away. Early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent further progression of the condition.
Treatment for scoliosis
Physiotherapy helps treat scoliosis, especially in non-structural cases where the cause may be corrected. A fully trained and qualified spine physiotherapist can help in the following ways:
Assess and treat areas of postural pain and muscle tightness.
Provide sound tips on appropriate posture and postural correction/alignment.
Provide advice and guidance on pain prevention and management techniques.
Having a therapy session with a professional physiotherapist is essential for scoliosis patients. It can help to reduce pain and discomfort while improving mobility and function.
Most physiotherapy centres use a combination of treatments. They are manual therapy techniques, exercise therapy, and education to help patients manage their conditions. The physiotherapists work closely with their patients to develop personalised treatment plans that address their unique needs. But here at Posture Plus, we specialise in scoliosis treatment using the Schroth method.
In addition to physiotherapy treatments, there are other things a patient can do to manage scoliosis:
Exercise regularly:
Regular exercise can help improve flexibility and strength while reducing pain.
Maintain good posture:
Good posture can help reduce stress on your spine.
Wear comfortable shoes:
Wearing comfortable shoes with good arch support can help reduce back pain.
Use heat or cold therapy:
Applying heat or cold therapy to your back can help reduce pain.
Importance of regular physiotherapy
Regular physiotherapy sessions are essential in helping patients manage their condition effectively. Physiotherapy can help to:
Improve the quality of life
Reduce pain and discomfort,
Improve movement ability and posture,
And very importantly, to prevent surgery or other surgical procedures (if needed), as well as manage post-operative recovery.
Final Thoughts
Scoliosis, while capable of causing significant hardship by impacting the spine, also offers hope for potential reversibility. Physiotherapy plays an essential role in the management and rehabilitation of scoliosis. The aim of physiotherapy is to help the patient to manage their pain and improve their posture and gait.
The treatment for scoliosis requires a team approach. The patient needs to understand their condition and how it affects their mobility. They need to perform the exercises correctly to get the most out of their treatment plan.
It is crucial that they continue with this routine even after leaving the clinic as scoliosis requires consistent maintenance care over time for patients to live well with their condition.
If you’re looking for the best physiotherapist Singapore for your scoliosis management and rehabilitation needs, you might want to consider Posture Plus Singapore. Our specialist clinic offers one of the finest scoliosis treatments for scoliosis patients.