What workouts/programs can I do if I have scoliosis?

BarryPI

New member
Posts: 1
Hello, Im a 22 year old male with mild lumbar scoliosis. I was in physical therapy for a while and I was told that I could start exercising again but that I should avoid things like jumping too much or lifting too much weight above my shoulders. What programs would y'all recommend me to increase my strength, mobility and endurance?

Thank you very much for your attention
 

Fremen

Well-known member
Shaman from Italy
Posts: 3,269
"“Keep an eye on the staircases. They like to change.” Percy Weasley, Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone."
Here's everything you need to know to get started: Get Started.
If you have no idea what to do, starting with a 30 day program is the simplest choice because it is a good complete training already structured: How to Pick a Program.
If you don't know what difficulty level to choose, try doing the Fitness Test.
And welcome :)
 

TopNotch

Well-known member
Ranger from Australia
Posts: 1,661
"Motivation is temporary. Discipline is forever."
I don't jump much because my scoliosis has resulted in fusion of some of my lower vertebrae, so I now lack the 'bounce' that a properly curvy spine would give me. But I still jump. I just don't jump high. And I try not to jump too much at one go, especially on a non-rebounding surface.
Superman stretches for me are a real struggle, but they won't damage me while they strengthen the muscles in my lower back, so I work them. I hate them, though.
Exercises that strengthen the back are a good idea so that you hold your spine in a good position. Mind your posture, especially - well, I was going to say 'when you're sitting' but really, you need to be mindful of how you move all the time. Be aware of when you might be slumping in the middle. Core exercises are good for that.
There are loads of mobility workouts here - you might start with the Mobility Collection - and that's really important.
Not lifting too much weight is probably again related to the lumbar region, but it probably doesn't mean that you can't do things like pull-ups or chin-ups which not only help build that upperbody, but also stretch the spine and strengthen the core.
PT is good, but if you can, perhaps see a rehab specialist, or an exercise specialist. Don't limit yourself by something that you're told at the age of 22. Unless you've been particularly prohibited from doing something and have been given a really good reason why, move as you feel able and try to move outside your comfort zone so long as you don't cause yourself sharp or ongoing pain. A good chiropractor can also be useful to have in your contacts list. You've got a lot of years ahead of you and you've got to keep that back - and all the other bits around it like core and hips and shoulders - strong.
 
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