New York Spine Institute Spine Services

Helpful Exercises and Stretches for Scoliosis  

Helpful Exercises and Stretches for Scoliosis  
Peter G. Passias, M.D. FAAOS ORTHOPEDIC SPINE SURGEON

Helpful Exercises and Stretches for Scoliosis  

By: Peter G. Passias, M.D. FAAOS

Dr. Passias’ is a world leader in the surgical treatment of spinal disorders. His clinical practice focuses on the treatment of both degenerative conditions of the spine, with an emphasis on complex spinal deformities including thoracolumbar revision procedures and scoliosis.

Exercises for scoliosis can help to relieve symptoms and keep you active and flexible. Learn how to perform scoliosis exercises properly below.

What Is Scoliosis?

Scoliosis is a curvature of the spine. While it ranges in cause and severity, this condition can cause back pain, fatigue, numbness and other symptoms. Scoliosis often develops in children shortly before puberty as their bodies grow and change. Adults can also have idiopathic or adult-onset degenerative scoliosis.

Most cases are mild and patients can live comfortably without these treatments. You may be able to relieve some of your scoliosis-related back pain naturally with the right stretches and exercises.

How to Fix Scoliosis Naturally

Exercises and stretches for scoliosis have two primary goals — strengthening your core muscles and improving your posture. 

Stretches for Scoliosis

Try these stretches to improve your posture and alleviate back pain: 

  • Cat-cow stretch: Start on your hands and knees and round your back — like a cat — until you feel a comfortable stretch. Breathe out and drop your chest, arching your back and stretching your abdomen.
  • Piriformis stretches: Lie on your back and cross your right ankle over your left knee. Loop your hands behind your left thigh and gently pull the leg toward your chest. Switch ankles and repeat on the other side.
  • Child’s pose: This resting pose begins in a kneeling position. Lean forward and rest your forehead on the floor. You can extend your arms forward for a greater stretch or let them rest at your side.

Exercises for Scoliosis

Explore these gentle workouts for scoliosis:

  • Pelvic tilt: Start by lying on the floor with your knees bent. Tighten your abdominal muscles to flatten your back while raising your pelvis slightly. Hold the pose for ten seconds and repeat a few times.
  • Plank: Get on all fours with your hands and knees shoulder-width apart. Lift your knees and hold the pose, keeping your whole body straight, for a few seconds. As you practice, you’ll be able to stay in the plank position longer.
  • Single-leg balance: Stand with your hands on your hips and feet shoulder-width apart. Raise one leg and bend it back at the knee, balancing on the other leg for about 30 seconds. Repeat with the other leg.

Learn More About the New York Spine Institute

Learn More About the New York Spine Institute

If you’re experiencing discomfort and pain caused by scoliosis, reach out to the New York Spine Institute. As a multi-specialty orthopedic center in the tri-state area, we have a team of experts and professional experience to treat your spine conditions. Contact us online to learn more about what we do or request an appointment today!