Scoliosis Awareness Month: What You Should Know
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June is National Scoliosis Awareness Month, making it a good time to shed light on a spinal condition that affects millions of bodies. In this post, we’ll explore what scoliosis is, the signs to look out for, and how yoga can potentially be a helpful tool to manage this condition.
Understanding Scoliosis
Scoliosis is a condition characterized by an abnormal curvature of the spine. While people are often aware of the natural curves of their spines—those you can see from the side where the cervical region (neck) goes in, the thoracic (upper/mid back) goes out, and the lumbar (lower back) curves in—scoliosis involves additional curving of the spine. Most people only think there is a lateral, or sideways, curve of the spine in scoliosis. But actually, scoliosis affects three planes of the body: the sagittal (right and left sides), coronal (front and back), and axial/transverse (top and bottom). This means that there are curves or rotations of the spine in all of those planes.
Scoliosis is estimated to affect 2%–3% of the population and its onset typically occurs in kids between the ages of 10 and 15 (American Association of Neurological Surgeons). Often people have scoliosis and don’t even know it. However, the more severe the case, the more likely the person is to have bothersome symptoms.
Why does diagnosis matter?
As mentioned, many people have scoliosis and don’t realize it. Why is it important that people know if they have it?
The main reason is that early detection leads to better management and outcomes. The more that those with scoliosis are aware of the condition, the more likely they are to monitor and manage the condition—that is, to limit the curves of the spine from becoming more severe. There is evidence that hormonal changes can cause progression of scoliosis and this makes females more vulnerable (Experimental & Molecular Medicine). As females undergo greater hormonal changes in their lives, with monthly fluctuations, pregnancies, and menopause, they tend to have higher frequency of curvature progression and severity. So, if someone is diagnosed earlier in life, they can monitor changes and mitigate progression, especially during large hormonal changes.
The spine is curved? So what?
In people who have scoliosis and don’t even know it, the symptoms can be less impactful on lives. However, even mild scoliosis cases can cause severe discomfort or complications. And severe cases can require surgery and have life-altering problems. Not only can scoliosis affect activities and movement, but the organs as well. With scoliosis there are concavities on the opposite side of the curve (e.g., on the left side if you have a right thoracic curve). These concavities can compress organs like the lungs, heart, stomach, or intestines. When the organs are continually compressed, they can be less effective at carrying out their roles—like circulating blood, taking in oxygen, or digesting food. So, the earlier someone knows they have scoliosis, symptoms or not, the earlier they can monitor and mitigate its effects.
Signs to Watch For
Early detection is key for managing scoliosis. Here are some common warning signs:
Uneven Shoulders: One shoulder may appear higher than the other or pulled farther back.
Uneven Waist: Where the waist falls might be different on either side—farther from the midline, higher, or flatter.
Prominent Ribs: The ribs on one side of the body may stick out more than the other—either appearing pointier or farther from the midline.
Uneven Hips: One hip may be higher than the other or rolled forward with one foot lining up in front of the other.
Back Appearance: A visible curve or bulge on the back may be present and the shoulder blades might look asymmetrical.
It’s important to note that scoliosis is most often diagnosed during childhood or adolescence—or again after menopause. If you notice any of these signs in yourself or someone you know, consult a doctor for proper evaluation, which usually includes an Adams Test.
The Role of Yoga in Managing Scoliosis
Yoga can be a helpful tool for those with scoliosis, but it’s crucial to consult a doctor before starting any yoga practice, particularly if you have scoliosis. Yoga poses that promote flexibility and strength can be beneficial for back and full body health, but modifications are essential to accommodate individual needs. Typically, yoga for scoliosis is practiced asymmetrically—you do poses differently on each side to accommodate your curves. Because of this, it is wise to work with a team that can help design the best activity plan for you.
Learn More
For more in-depth information about scoliosis and how to adapt yoga poses, here are some of my related blog posts:
Things to Look for During Yoga for Scoliosis
How to Do the Adams Test for Scoliosis
Can yoga cure scoliosis?
Can you do high-impact exercise with scoliosis?
What is yoga for scoliosis?
How to Do Child’s Pose for Scoliosis