When is physiotherapy recommended for scoliosis?

Scoliosis is a sideways spinal curve that may also change the way the spine and rib cage rotate. Physiotherapy does not simply straighten every curve. It can help you understand alignment, move with better control and build strength around the trunk, hips and shoulders. For a child or teenager who is still growing, the physiotherapist coordinates advice with the treating clinician because monitoring and other treatment may also be needed. Adults may be referred when stiffness, muscle fatigue or activity limitations are affecting work, exercise or sleep.

Arrange an assessment if back discomfort, uneven shoulders or hips, reduced endurance or difficulty with activities is affecting you. The physiotherapist may observe standing and walking, check spinal and hip movement, and assess breathing or muscle control when relevant. Your programme may include curve-aware exercises, trunk and hip strengthening, mobility work, balance practice and advice for lifting or sitting. Practise only the exercises prescribed for your findings, and report increasing pain, new weakness or changes in sensation.

Seek urgent medical care for new loss of bladder or bowel control, numbness around the groin, rapidly worsening leg weakness, severe back pain after an injury, or trouble breathing. Contact your clinician soon if pain is persistent, wakes you repeatedly, is accompanied by fever or unexplained weight loss, or if a young person’s posture appears to be changing quickly.

Ask whether the curve needs imaging or monitoring, which activities are appropriate now, and how physiotherapy fits with any brace or other care. You can also ask how progress will be measured and which symptoms should prompt an earlier review.