Living With Scoliosis: How it Affects Your Everyday Lifestyle
By Space Coast Daily // April 10, 2020
Back pains are a common complaint from most people. If you are not extremely careful how you sit, walk, and stand to protect your posture, you might have to live with a chronic ailment.
Especially for people with pre-existing back problems, wrong movements can exacerbate the pain and further worsen their condition.
Scoliosis is one of the common spine alignment issues that many people develop while still in the growing phase and have to endure painful periodic attacks.
Scoliosis cases vary in intensity; a mild case might be durable for some with home exercises while other severe cases might worsen with time and can only be treated with surgery.
People who have scoliosis often experience shooting back pains that can stand in the way of simple everyday activities, like looking down at their phones.
If you or a loved one have been diagnosed with Scoliosis, read on below to find out more about living with it, and how it affects one’s daily routine.
What causes Scoliosis?
You first need to understand what causes Scoliosis and if there is anything that you can do if you are susceptible to it. Although the exact reason behind this spinal curvature is unknown, in some cases, it is linked to genetic factors while, in others, it can be caused by different brain-related conditions like cerebral palsy or tumors.
The specialized Orthotists at Align Clinic explain that bracing is one of the most common yet effective methods used to alleviate pain and stop the spinal curve from worsening.
Other treatments include oral medicines and physical therapy. However, there is limited evidence proving that exercises can successfully stop or slow down the evolution of Scoliosis in most patients.
Depending on the severity of your case, there are a number of ways by which you can adapt to living with Scoliosis. Make sure to consult professionals in the field to help identify which treatment will suit you best.
See your Scoliosis expert often
Before attempting any remedies or exercises that you see online, you should consult a Scoliosis expert. By looking at your X-Rays and evaluating your condition, a Scoliosis expert can give you the right advice that will best suit your specific needs.
When looking for Scoliosis experts, take the time to read patient testimonials and real-life success stories. You need to go through verified real reviews, so you can have the chance to work with professionals who have proven experience with different Scoliosis patients.
If you are suspecting that your kid is showing signs of Scoliosis, do not wait it out and take them to see an expert as soon as possible, so as not to waste precious time.
You need to alter your exercise regimen
There are certain sports and exercises that do not go well with Scoliosis. You will find that you have to avoid any sports that involve adding extra pressure on your spine, like horseback riding and long-distance running.
If you are into yoga, ballet, or dancing, you need to inform your teacher to adjust certain poses to better accommodate your condition. Soccer and other high-impact sports can also put your health at risk, so refrain from engaging in such activities unless you get clearance from your doctor or Scoliosis expert.
You should, however, remain active and keep up with special exercises that can strengthen the muscles supporting your spine. The exact location of the denture in your spine will determine what works for you and what does not.
You might have to replace your furniture
You will probably realize that you need to replace your furniture with functionality in mind. Nowadays, you can find many options in the market for ergonomic couches, chairs, and mattresses to provide you with the level of comfort you need.
Since all cases are different, you need to try out different chairs and mattresses before you can decide which ones to buy. Try to find a balance between comfort and support.
If you spend long hours at your office, it is important to disclose your condition to your employer and discuss the possibility of having your office chair replaced. If that is not possible, you will find that buying one yourself is worth it.
You have to constantly check your posture
By now, you probably know how much poor posture can worsen your Scoliosis case and compromise your spine-supporting muscles.
You will find that you are constantly shifting in your chair and reconsidering your sleeping habits, hoping to keep your Scoliosis in check.
It will be quite challenging and uncomfortable in the beginning; however, after some time, your body will learn to adapt to the good stance you have been practicing, and it will eventually come naturally.
If you have Scoliosis, you might be constantly worried about how your case will develop with time, and find yourself obsessing about the different possibilities.
However, if you are practicing the right habits as per your doctor’s recommendations and staying consistent with your brace and physical therapy, you should be fine. Many people are living normal lives with Scoliosis, and there is no reason why you too should not.
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