How to Run With Scoliosis: Tips for Running With Scoliosis

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Very often, I get asked if people with scoliosis can exercise. Exercise is particularly important for people with scoliosis. Scoliosis-specific exercises and physical therapy are key facets of scoliosis treatment. There was a time when exercise was used to treat and reduce scoliosis, but now we know general exercise alone won't affect scoliosis size without being scoliosis-specific or combined with corrective treatments.

Exercise is still important, but severe cases may have restrictions due to the effect exercise can have on scoliosis. Scoliosis induces uneven forces in the body, especially in adult scoliosis due to compression over time, leading to progression and discomfort. Activity restrictions are case-specific, and sports involving repeated collisions, jarring impacts, or overuse on one side of the body can put the spine in an unnatural position and should be avoided.

Is running safe for patients with scoliosis? Running involves repetitive shocks from the feet hitting the ground, causing stress to travel up the legs into the spine. This compression factor, especially in long-distance running, can introduce prolonged compressive force, which might need to be limited in severe cases. Short-distance running could be a better option.

Usain Bolt, one of the greatest runners, had significant lumbar scoliosis and won many gold medals. However, he was an elite athlete with extensive training, unlike most patients. Negative effects of running can be stronger in general patients due to compressive forces. Running can lead to faster degeneration, pain, and scoliosis progression.

Are there positive benefits to running with scoliosis? Yes, running is a symmetrical exercise, reducing the likelihood of worsening scoliosis compared to asymmetrical sports like tennis or golf. Running keeps the spine in a straight line, avoiding unnatural positions. It's good for overall bone health as compression forces stimulate bone development, strengthening bones. Exercise improves bone health, keeps surrounding muscles strong and flexible, and enhances spine stability through reflexes.

Good form is crucial for running with scoliosis. Maintain posture, keep the spine neutral and aligned to distribute force evenly, and avoid impacting one area more adversely. Keep the head up, look forward, ensure alignment of the cervical and thoracic spine, relax the body, and keep arms loosely at the sides. Consider a running coach to ensure proper foot landing, avoid excessive toe or heel impact, and always warm up and stretch before running.

Exercise benefits usually outweigh risks, including improved spinal strength, flexibility, bone health, core strength, overall health, and mental health. Running can be problematic for severe scoliosis or pain due to progression. Negative effects can be managed with a conservative treatment program, home therapy, exercises, home rehab, or corrective bracing.

Always check with your scoliosis treatment provider for guidance on exercises. Exercise is key to health and conservative scoliosis treatment. Running can be integral to scoliosis improvement but must be assessed individually to determine the healthiest activity level for each person.

You can learn more about this topic here:
https://www.scoliosisreductioncenter....

Ready for a consultation or want more information? You can contact us here:
https://www.scoliosisreductioncenter....

00:00 How to Run With Scoliosis: Tips for Running With Scoliosis
01:51 Is Running Safe With Scoliosis?
03:10 What Could Happen By Compressing The Spine?
03:22 Benefits of Running for Scoliosis
04:44 What Can Happen If You Run With Scoliosis?
05:53 Do The Benefits Outweight The Risks?
07:05 Final Recommendations

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