Have you ever experienced the nagging feeling of tension on one side of your back, but just can’t seem to access and relieve that feeling? Are you more prone to injury on one side of your body compared to the other?
I have experienced the same problem. As a competitive gymnast, I thought that I was less flexible on the one side and I would work really hard at improving the imbalances but it didn’t change the tension, because I didn’t understand scoliosis.
What is Scoliosis?
Scoliosis is a degree of lateral curvature in the spine. Many people have a very slight presentation of scoliosis in a portion of their spine and don’t ever discover it because it does not limit function, mobility or cause pain. In more severe cases, the curvature is very visible, often resulting in pain in surrounding musculature, limitations in movement of the trunk and a feeling of tension on one side. Individuals with severe scoliosis likely have uneven shoulders and hips and/or a rib “hump”.
Idiopathic Scoliosis
Idiopathic scoliosis is the most common form of scoliosis comprising 80% of all scoliosis cases. Idiopathic by definition means that there is no definite cause and it is most often diagnosed in adolescence.
Postural Scoliosis: A Result of Habitual Misalignment
Postural scoliosis is a mild type of scoliosis that results from improper attention to posture in repetitive work and leisure environments which also can cause similar dysfunction. Often, exercises and massage can help to relieve this type of muscle tension.
The Importance of Early Treatment
Through my education and experience as a massage therapist, I learned about how exaggerated spinal curvature can create increased low back tension and a higher risk of injury in the muscles of the legs and hips due to increased strain on one side. Scoliosis left untreated can worsen over time so it is important to seek treatment sooner rather than later.
Final Words
Every individual with scoliosis deserves a personalized plan of care, as each curve and resulting imbalances and dysfunction are different. Massage therapy can help to alleviate tension and help limit the pain that can be associated with scoliosis by targeting the specific muscles that are tight. Don’t delay, book with Mary Anne today and begin your journey to feeling better.
