Firstly, WHAT IS SCOLIOSIS?
Scoliosis is a spinal condition characterised by an abnormal lateral curvature of the spine. It can occur in varying degrees of severity and often develops during childhood or adolescence. Scoliosis can result in uneven shoulders, a prominent shoulder blade, an uneven waistline and leg length differences. Depending on the severity of the curve, scoliosis can cause pain, discomfort, and reduced mobility, impacting daily life and activities.
Though scoliosis is usually noticeable, there are many instances where a person will not know they have scoliosis until diagnosed by a professional later in life. A slight or minor amount of scoliosis often does not require orthopaedic specialist review but it can still affect various muscles & cause pain. Generally, you can provide immense relief for the muscles affected by scoliosis by engaging in regular remedial massage therapy and stretching to open up muscular restrictions.
HOW DOES MASSAGE IMPROVE SCOLIOSIS?
Massage can offer several immediate benefits for individuals with scoliosis, such as:
Pain relief: By reducing muscle tension and promoting relaxation, massage therapy can help alleviate pain associated with scoliosis.
Improved circulation: Massage can increase blood flow to the affected muscles, providing essential nutrients and oxygen to support healing and overall spinal health.
Enhanced flexibility and range of motion: Massage therapy can address muscle tightness and imbalances, helping to improve joint mobility and flexibility.
Reduced muscle tension and spasms: Massage can help release tight muscles and relieve spasms that may contribute to scoliosis-related discomfort.
Improved posture: By addressing muscle imbalances and promoting relaxation, massage therapy can support better posture and spinal alignment.
LONG-TERM BENEFITS OF MASSAGE THERAPY FOR SCOLIOSIS
When you incorporate massage therapy into a regular selfcare routine, we can provide long-term benefits for individuals suffering from scoliosis. Some of these benefits include:
Pain relief: Regular massage therapy can help alleviate pain associated with scoliosis by reducing muscle tension, improving circulation, and promoting the release of endorphins, the body’s natural painkillers.
Improved flexibility and mobility: Massage therapy can help increase flexibility and joint mobility by relaxing tight muscles and fascia, allowing for improved range of motion and reduced restrictions in the spine and surrounding muscles.
Muscle balance: Massage therapy can help address muscle imbalances caused by scoliosis, strengthening weak muscles and stretching tight ones, which can contribute to improved spinal alignment and reduced strain on the musculoskeletal system.
Stress reduction: Regular massage therapy has been shown to reduce stress levels and promote relaxation, which can be particularly beneficial for individuals living with chronic pain and discomfort associated with scoliosis.
Improved posture: By addressing muscle imbalances and promoting spinal alignment, massage therapy can help improve posture in individuals with scoliosis, reducing strain on the spine and surrounding structures.
Enhanced overall well-being: Massage therapy can contribute to a better quality of life by improving physical function, reducing pain, and promoting relaxation and stress relief for individuals with scoliosis.
Scoliosis is primarily a structural condition related to the curvature of the spine. It’s not merely a muscular issue, massage alone cannot correct this underlying structural issue. Massage therapy complements other treatments such as physiotherapy and exercise physiology, and should be part of a holistic approach to managing scoliosis.
Depending on your individual needs, specific circumstances, preferences, and treatment goals, our remedial massage therapist, Natalie, can create a tailored approach that maximises the benefits of massage therapy to get you feeling your best. To book online please click here.
