The use of exercises in the treatment of scoliosis: an evidence-based critical review of the literature

Abstract

The loss of flexibility in a spinal curvature defines it as a structural spinal deformity; a curvature sufficiently mobile to resolve with a change in posture is a non-structural or 'functional' scoliosis which is within the normal limits of movement for a human spine. It, therefore, seems logical that exercise-based therapies designed to improve and/or maintain flexibility and range of motion of the spine and thorax would be useful in the treatment of scoliosis. Recognition of the importance of maintaining flexibility of the thoracic spinal column to avoid scoliosis-associated pulmonary dysfunction made the use of exercise-based therapies a topic of clinical interest in ancient Greece. In recent years, successful prevention of polio epidemics has resulted in a stable change in patient populations such that most individuals diagnosed with scoliosis do not suffer from irreversible central nervous system compromise. As a result, realistic opportunities to examine the role of exercise in treatment of scoliosis are available for the first time in history. A growing body of evidence from independent sources is consistent with the hypothesis that exercise-based approaches can be used effectively to reverse the signs and symptoms of spinal deformity and to prevent progression in children and adults.

Effects of corrective, therapeutic exercise techniques on adolescent idiopathic scoliosis. A systematic review

“…42,43 Findings, collectively, show an improved posture that lies in the ability to maintain self- 14 and may even avoid bracing 11 and surgery. 44 The improvements in functional capacity and quality of life observed after therapeutic exercise in patients with AIS may be attributed to a reduction in symptoms which, together with better postural parameters, may have influenced patients' self-image and personal satisfaction.…”

Reprodutibilidade intra e interobservadores no ângulo de cobb em indivíduos escolióticos

“…A escoliose, ou curvatura lateral da coluna, pode ser de origem idiopática, congênita ou neuromuscular. A escoliose idiopática é a responsável por 85% a 95% de todos os casos de escoliose e sua ocorrência, é maior em mulheres 1,2 .…”

“…Embora seja considerado método "padrão-ouro", as curvas são avaliadas mediante projeções em filmes radiográficos planos, podendo em muitas situações, avaliar apenas uma das faces das curvaturas tridimensionais da escoliose 2,9,10 .…”

Chiropractic Rehabilitation of a Scoliosis Family: Results from a 9-Year Follow-Up

“…While these treatments have a long history of publication, exercise-based therapies have offered far less published data [2]. Of these, chiropractic treatment of scoliosis has only been published in a handful of case reports or series [3].…”