Scoliosis rehabilitation is a treatment process applied to address pain, functional limitations, and postural disorders caused by abnormal curvature and rotation of the spine. Scoliosis is a condition where the spine curves sideways and sometimes rotates. This condition often develops especially during adolescence and can negatively affect quality of life. Scoliosis rehabilitation aims to improve the patient's life, correct posture, and prevent the progression of scoliosis.
Main Goals of Scoliosis Rehabilitation: 1. Pain Reduction: Muscle tension and abnormal loading on the spine caused by scoliosis can lead to pain. Managing pain is a key target during the rehabilitation process. 2. Posture Correction: Scoliosis creates an asymmetric posture in the body. Rehabilitation focuses on realigning the spine properly to correct posture. 3. Muscle Strengthening and Stability: Scoliosis can cause weakness in the muscles surrounding the spine. Rehabilitation aims to strengthen these muscles and increase spinal stability. 4. Increased Mobility: Scoliosis may cause stiffness and limited movement in the spine. Rehabilitation targets improving spinal mobility. 5. Prevention of Scoliosis Progression: Rehabilitation can help halt or slow the progression of scoliosis, especially in early stages.
Main Stages of Scoliosis Rehabilitation: 1. Assessment and Diagnosis
Physical Assessment: The severity, type of scoliosis, and other physiological conditions (muscle strength, flexibility, etc.) are thoroughly evaluated. Imaging (X-ray, MRI) is used to measure spinal curvature.
Pain Assessment: The pain and functional limitations experienced by the patient due to scoliosis are determined.
2. Scoliosis Brace Application
Brace Use: Particularly during adolescence, a scoliosis brace may be used to prevent progression. The brace helps align the spine correctly and slows further curvature.
Brace Training: Patients are taught how to properly put on, remove, and when to use the brace.
3. Physical Therapy and Exercises Postural Exercises: Special exercises are performed to correct posture disorders caused by scoliosis. These exercises aim to realign the spine.
Stretching Exercises: Stretching exercises are applied to reduce muscle tension and increase joint range of motion. Core Muscle Strengthening: Muscles around the spine are strengthened to provide better spinal support and stability.
Schroth Method: This method, specifically developed for scoliosis, is used to realign the spine and reduce scoliosis effects.
4. Pain Management and Posture Improvement
Heat and Cold Therapy: Heat or cold applications may be used to reduce pain. TENS (Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation): This treatment method is used to manage scoliosis-related pain.
Postural Correction: Exercises and postural education are provided to correct scoliosis-induced improper posture.
5. Psychological Support
• Psycho-social Support: Scoliosis can also have psychological effects. Especially adolescents may feel social pressure due to postural deformities. Psychological support helps patients adapt more easily to the treatment process.
• Motivational Support: Psychological support is provided to increase patients' motivation during rehabilitation.
6. Education and Awareness
• Patient Education: One of the most important steps in scoliosis treatment is informing the patient about the treatment process. Patients learn about the nature of scoliosis, treatment methods, and exercises.
• Posture and Activity Training: Patients are taught how to maintain correct posture and perform daily activities properly.
7. Surgical Intervention and Follow-up
• Surgery if Necessary: Progression of scoliosis may require surgical intervention. Rehabilitation is also important in supporting the recovery process after surgery.
• Regular Follow-up and Monitoring: Progress in scoliosis treatment is regularly monitored. The condition of the curvature and the patient's status are reviewed and the treatment plan updated if needed.
Scoliosis rehabilitation is a process aimed at treating spinal curvature and improving patients' quality of life. Exercises, postural correction, scoliosis brace use, pain management, and psychological support are the main components of this process. Early treatment can stop progression and help patients live independently.
