Scoliosis_logo_png
Scoliosis_logo_png
Courses

Home / Scoliosis Specific Exercise program

Scoliosis Specific Exercise program

PRNY, PC

SRS and SOSORT guidelines lead the evidence based program.
SOSORT guidelines, due to the non-surgical component have a more extensive outline of bracing, physical therapy, combinations and general sports.
PRNY therapists have years of significant advance training and certification in neurological development in addition to the BSPTS certifications for SSEs. This allows us to maximize the evaluation of individual patients to include their neuromotor presentations, including tone, hypermobility, and motor learning strengths and impairments. We have found this component of SSEs to be critical when individualizing patient treatment plan and prognosis.

Current Protocols:

0-10Cobb – screening every 1-3 months depending on age, family hx. Screening must include rotational measurements and postural assessments. Ideally formetric measurements if feasible. A 2-D x-ray only is not recommended as early rotational anomalies may not be detected by x-rays.
10-20Cobb – continue with screening. Begin SSEs for general postural education and self corrections. Full SSE training is described and offered for families.
20-50Cobb – Recommendations are for full SSE program training. HEP recommendations are 5x/wk for 30-45min till skeletal maturity. Specific training for exercises within a 3-D brace such as Rigo-Cheneau or now available in NY by Grant Wood CPO the Wood Cheneau Rigo (WCR)., and Ortholutions.
Regular monitoring of brace, compliance, and communication with CPO/MD.
>50Cobb – SSE program is provided with direct communication with surgeon. Patient and family are educated on long term risks of progression beyond skeletal maturity. Patient/family sign off on receiving this education.
Pre-surgical SSE training is available with direct communication with surgeon.
Post-surgical SSE training is modified and available with direct communication with surgeon.
Full SSE training is recommended at frequency of 2hrs per day/5days per week/2weeks for total of 20 hours.
Follow up sessions are 1 hr at a frequency to be determined by therapist/patient level of independence/family.
Currently our patients have been receiving a treatment for a range of 25-35 hours total.
We have found clinically that the intensive model maximizes the motor learning and neuro-re-education that is necessary for this complex program. There are factors that may limit this model and modifications are regularly offered. These factors include, patient tolerance, size of progression risk window based on skeletal maturity, geography, or financial resources.

ADULT SCOLIOSIS

0-50Cobb without pain, degenerative or sagital modifiers (BSPTS curriculum). – Full SSE training at general frequency of 1-3xs per week for 1hr each.
>50Cobb without pain, degenerative or sagital modifiers (BSPTS curriculum). -Full SSE training is available with direct communication with ortho MD. Patient signs off on education of progression risks with age. 1-3xs per week. Sessions are 1 hr.
0-50Cobb with pain and/or presence of modifiers. -Full SSE training is available with communication with ortho MD. External traction via belts and hangs are modified for individual patients. 1-3x/wk for 1hr ea
>50Cobb with pain and/or presence of modifiers. – SSE training is modified and performed with communication with MD. External traction via belts and long hang are eliminated.
Individual patient evaluation may result in therapy POC modification from these general protocols.
Adult bracing has been utilized by a few patients in this clinic as a tool for pain/postural endurance/ ADL and activity management. Currently only the 3-D braces have been integrated into our adult population.

EOS/SPECIAL NEEDS

Due to advanced neuro-Development training and certification within our staff, PRNY is able to modify scoliosis specific exercise for younger learners and special needs population. Individual evaluation and team consults with family and lead surgeons are required.
PRNY, PC Positions.
Sports/Activities- general participation in school gym and social activities is encouraged. Mass practiced sports or competitive level sports are individually evaluated for general bio-mechanics that may detract from the SSE training. Modifications to activity mechanics and/or frequency are introduced in cooperation with patient/family and coaches if need be, this includes Yoga or Pilates.
Psycho-Social assistance is highly recommended. Professional mental health providers are skilled at providing support and care to this chronic condition during child and adolescent development.
The Curvy Girls is a non-profit international support group with many US state chapters. We fully support this organization including vending/lecturing/conference attendance/ and Marissa Muccio PT is the official PT for their blog in “Ask the PT”.
The utilization of soft braces for scoliosis is not recommended at this facility.
Massage therapy is approved.
Chiropractic, acupuncture, or other ancillary treatments are at the patient/family discretion with the note that there is no current research that has identified its benefits of scoliosis. We remain open to research information that may progress in these or other areas.

New Jersey Offices:

1086 Teaneck Rd, Suite 3F, Teaneck, NJ 07666
28 Millburn Avenue, Suite 5 Springfield, NJ 07081

South Carolina Office:

1671 Belle Isle Ave Suite S
Mount Pleasant SC 29466

Scoliosis-specific exercises provide significant benefits both before and after vertebral body tethering surgery. Prior to surgery, these exercises help strengthen muscles around the spine, improve flexibility, and optimize posture, which can potentially reduce the severity of the curvature and prepare the body for the procedure. Following surgery, scoliosis-specific exercises play a crucial role in promoting healing, restoring mobility, and preventing muscle imbalances or stiffness.
By adhering to a tailored exercise regimen, patients can support the success of the surgery, enhance their recovery process, and maintain optimal spinal function and alignment in the long term, leading to improved overall well-being and quality of life.
Scoliosis-specific exercises offer important benefits both before and after spinal fusion surgery for scoliosis. Before surgery, these exercises can help improve flexibility, strength, and posture, which may ease symptoms and prepare the body for the procedure. After surgery, these exercises become even more crucial. They aid in regaining strength, promoting healing, and preventing muscle stiffness or weakness that can occur due to the surgical procedure.
By following a tailored exercise program, patients can enhance their recovery, maintain spinal alignment, and improve overall mobility and function, ultimately supporting their long-term well-being and quality of life.
Pregnancy can pose unique challenges for women with scoliosis, a condition where the spine curves sideways. While many women with scoliosis have healthy pregnancies, the added weight and changes in posture during pregnancy can sometimes exacerbate back pain or discomfort. It’s important for women with scoliosis to communicate with their healthcare providers throughout pregnancy to manage any pain or concerns.
Scoliosis Specific physical therapy, proper posture, and sometimes support devices can help alleviate discomfort and promote a smoother pregnancy experience. With proper care and monitoring, most women with scoliosis can enjoy a healthy happy pregnancy and delivery.
Aging adolescent idiopathic scoliosis occurs when the curvature of the spine, which developed during adolescence, progresses or worsens with age. This type of scoliosis affects individuals who had scoliosis as teenagers, and it may cause pain, stiffness, and difficulty with daily activities as they get older. In contrast, adult degenerative scoliosis develops later in life due to wear and tear on the spine’s discs and joints.
It often leads to spinal curvature and can cause back pain, nerve compression, and changes in posture. Treatment options for both conditions may include physical therapy, pain management, and in severe cases, surgery to stabilize the spine and improve quality of life. Early diagnosis and appropriate management are essential to minimize symptoms and maintain spinal health
Juvenile idiopathic scoliosis, (JIS) is a type of spinal curvature that occurs in children under the age of 10. Unlike adolescent scoliosis, it may not be related to growth spurts. It affects both boys and girls equally and can lead to uneven shoulders, waist, or hips. Early detection is essential as it allows for timely intervention to prevent the curve from worsening. The research and outcomes for JIS are different than AIS. Treatment options may include observation, physical therapy, bracing, or, in severe cases, surgery.
Early Onset Scoliosis, (EOS): Early onset scoliosis is a condition where the spine curves sideways in children under the age of 5. Unlike scoliosis in older children, the cause of early onset scoliosis can be related to congenital spine abnormalities, neuromuscular conditions, or chest wall deformities. This type of scoliosis can affect a child’s breathing and lung development if left untreated. Treatment options may include observation, bracing, growth-friendly surgeries, or a combination of these, aiming to manage the curve and support healthy spine growth as the child grows. Early diagnosis and intervention are crucial to prevent potential complications and promote better long-term outcomes.
Adolescent idiopathic scoliosis is a condition where the spine curves during a growth spurt in teenagers. It affects around 2-3% of adolescents, typically girls, aged 10-18 and will appear on an xray like a C or S shape. While the cause is unknown, genetics may play a role, and thus can be present in the family history.

Early detection through screenings is crucial, as mild cases may not cause symptoms but can progress over time. Treatment options include observation, physical therapy, bracing, or in severe cases, surgery, aiming to prevent curve progression and maintain spinal alignment for a healthy, active life.

New Jersey Offices:

265 Route 46, Suite 102 Totowa, NJ 07512
218 Ridgedale Ave, Suite 204 Cedar Knolls, NJ 07927

South Carolina Office:

1671 Belle Isle Ave, Suit S Mount Pleasant, SC 29464

Texas Office:

Round Rock, TX (Austin area) 3309 Forest Creek Dr Suite 302 Round Rock, TX 78664