It’s National Scoliosis Month and our goal is to provide you with excellent care inside and outside of the Iowa Ortho office. Below we’ll not only break down the pain levels of scoliosis but also some stretches you can do to help relieve some tension.

Scoliosis can present itself in three different pain levels:

• Mild – not as visible to the eye and usually does not require significant medical attention.
• Moderate – may be treated with exercise or a brace.
• Severe – usually needs to be corrected with spinal surgery.

When you start feeling discomfort because of your scoliosis, stretching can allow you to release some tension in the muscles surrounding your spin.

Pelvic Lifts

• Lie on your back with your feet flat on the floor and knees bent.
• Tighten your stomach muscles while flattening your back toward the floor.
• Hold for 5 seconds, while breathing normally.
• Release.

Arm and leg raises

• Lie on your front with your forehead to the ground.
• Extend your arms out over your head, with the palms positioned flat on the ground. Keep your legs straight.
• Raise one arm off of the ground.
• Hold for one or two full breaths, then lower the arm back down.
• Repeat with each arm and each leg.

Cat-Camel

• Begin on the hands and knees, ensuring your back is level, and your head and neck are comfortable.
• Breathe deeply, then draw the abdominal muscles in and up, arching your back.
• Exhale and release the abdominal muscles, dropping the back, letting the belly fall, and lifting the head toward the ceiling.

Bird-Dog

• Begin on your hands and knees making sure your back is straight.
• Place hands directly under your shoulders, with knees directly under the hips.
• Extend one arm straight out and the opposite leg straight back at the same time.
• Repeat with the opposite arm and leg.

 It is always best to consult your provider to ensure you are doing the best exercises for your Scoliosis. If you have any questions please call Iowa Ortho at 515-247-8400 or request an appointment online.