Scoliosis

WHAT IS SCOLIOSIS?

Scoliosis is an abnormal sideways curvature of the spine, in either a “C” or “S” shape. In addition, there is also usually a rotational component present in addition to the lateral (sideways) curvature, meaning that one or more of the vertebrae may be slighty rotated (twisted).  Scoliosis most often occurs during adolescent years, although in most cases the cause is idiopathic (due to an unknown cause). In other cases, the cause may be known, and that could be from either a structural issue or a non-structural issue (such as Cerebral Palsy, Muscular Dystrophy,etc).

The reason we see this come up during adolescence is due to the growth spurts that occur during those years. It can cause a wide range of issues, depending on the severity of the curve, including muscle imbalances, back pain, headaches due to neck and upper back tension, abdominal pain, rib pain, and in the most severe cases may cause issues with shortness of breath and chest pain due to the restriction of the heart and lungs.

Those with scoliosis have muscle imbalances following a zig-zag pattern up the body, with muscles on some sides being hypertonic and muscles other sides being hypotonic (weak). Muscle specific medical massage therapy can help with pain and muscle imbalances caused by scoliosis. Massage won’t cure scoliosis, but can help prevent the curve from worsening and address issues of pain and tension. The key is, to target this specific zig zag pattern, depending on what side the curve is on, as it is different for different people.

So relief is available with us if you are suffering from this condition.

MY EXPERIENCE AS A STUDENT LEARNING MASSAGE THERAPY PROTOCOL FOR SCOLIOSIS

I (Nina Madsen) have had scoliosis myself since age 12, so I get it. It can be a real pain and cause a lot of muscular issues. My case is mild, but I treat it with massage therapy.  When I was at the Swedish Institute, we had a class specifically for treating this problematic condition.  When I was the "client", the "therapist/student" worked the left gracilis, right gluteus medius, left QL, right upper erector spinae and levator scapula with muscle stripping, myofascial release and trigger point therapy. Muscles that corresponded (the same muscles but on the other side), were worked with vigorous petrissage and tapotement.  It felt like a very disjointed massage therapy session.  But when I stood up though, I felt like I was completely off balance, even though for the first time, I was not asymmetrical.  This feeling lasted one day, giving my nervous system a chance to rearrange to accomodate for this new found balance.  I was sold - I had significantly less pain and stiffness in my muscles and back - specifically my lower and upper back. – Nina Madsen