Yoga as a Way to Fitness for Those with Scoliosis

Yoga can be used as a way to correct muscle imbalances that occur from prolonged sitting or from overdeveloping the muscles on the front body. It is also an ideal method of strengthening and stretching for those with scoliosis.

Scoliosis is a common condition that can be either mild or severe and refers to having one or more lateral curves in the spine or an “S” curve. This can result in chronic back or hip pain, poor body awareness, and problems relating to decreased space for organs to develop and function. Without intervention, the condition tends to get more pronounced over time.

I will use my own scoliosis pattern, “right thoraco scoliosis,” as an example of how yoga can be applied. I have a right curve in my thoracic spine or mid-back and an elevated right shoulder and left hip. From the back, my right shoulder blade protrudes while the left sinks in. I have a slight compensating left low back curve as well. On the sides, my left rib cage and left hip are closer together than my right rib cage and hip, giving me a “short: left side.

The following gives a sampling of how to apply yoga to my particular muscle imbalance to assist my body in maintaining the most optimal alignment possible:

ABDOMINALS
Strengthen R Lower Abdominals, Stretch L Lower Abdominals using boat/R leg weighted

Strengthen L Upper Abdominals, Stretch R Upper Abdominals usinge boat/L arm weighted

SHOULDERS
Strengthen R Back of Shoulder, Stretch L Back of Shoulder using Flying locust/R arm weighted

LOW BACK
Strengthen L Lower Back, Stretch R Lower Back using Flying locust/L leg weighted

SIDE BODY
Strengthen R Side Body using Side-lying crescent moon, right side up

Stetch L Side Body using Supine crescent moon stretching the left side

Before beginning a yoga practice, it is highly recommended that you get a thorough assessment from an experienced yoga therapist familiar with scoliosis to determine your particular patterns of imbalance. Because part of the syndrome of having scoliosis is poor body awareness, your yoga therapist can teach you how to use props and environmental cues to ensure proper body alignment during your practice. With diligent, mindful practice, you can alleviate pain, decrease emergency chiropractic visits, keep your scoliosis progression in check, and achieve a strong and flexible body.