Scoliosis is a condition characterized by an abnormal curvature of the spine, which can lead to pain, discomfort, and limited mobility. While exercise is generally beneficial for overall health and well-being, it is important for individuals with scoliosis to be cautious about the types of exercises they engage in. Certain exercises can potentially worsen the condition and should be avoided. This article explores the exercises to avoid for individuals with scoliosis, providing general guidelines and specific examples to help individuals make informed decisions about their exercise routines.
Compreender a escoliose
Scoliosis affects the alignment of the spine, causing it to curve sideways. It can occur in both children and adults, with varying degrees of severity. Approximately 2-3% of the population has scoliosis, with females being more commonly affected than males [1][2]. The causes of scoliosis can be genetic, neuromuscular, or idiopathic, with idiopathic scoliosis being the most common form [3].
Importance of Exercise for Scoliosis
Exercise plays a crucial role in managing scoliosis by improving flexibility, strength, and posture. It can help alleviate pain, reduce the progression of the curvature, and enhance overall quality of life [4][5]. However, not all exercises are suitable for individuals with scoliosis. Understanding which exercises to avoid is essential to prevent further complications and potential worsening of the condition [6].
Scoliosis Exercises to Avoid: General Guidelines
Certain general guidelines should be followed when choosing exercises for scoliosis. Firstly, avoid high-impact exercises that put excessive stress on the spine [7]. Secondly, exercises involving twisting and rotational movements should be avoided as they can exacerbate the curvature [8]. Additionally, overstretching exercises that strain the muscles and ligaments should be avoided [9]. Heavy weightlifting exercises can also be detrimental, as they can put excessive pressure on the spine [10]. Lastly, exercises that promote poor posture should be avoided, as they can further misalign the spine [11].
High-Impact Exercises to Avoid
High-impact exercises, such as running, jumping, and intense aerobic activities, should be avoided by individuals with scoliosis [12]. These exercises can cause excessive jarring and compression of the spine, leading to increased pain and potential progression of the curvature [13]. Instead, low-impact exercises like swimming, cycling, and walking are recommended as they provide cardiovascular benefits without placing excessive stress on the spine [14].
Twisting and Rotational Exercises to Avoid
Exercises that involve twisting and rotational movements can worsen the curvature of the spine [15]. Examples include golf swings, tennis serves, and certain yoga poses like the spinal twist [16]. These movements can put uneven pressure on the spine, leading to increased rotation and potential discomfort [17]. Instead, individuals with scoliosis should focus on exercises that promote spinal alignment and stability, such as planks, bridges, and gentle core exercises [18].
Overstretching Exercises to Avoid
While stretching is beneficial for maintaining flexibility, overstretching exercises should be avoided by individuals with scoliosis [19]. Overstretching can strain the muscles and ligaments surrounding the spine, leading to increased instability and potential pain [20]. Exercises like deep backbends, extreme forward folds, and excessive side stretches should be avoided [21]. Instead, focus on gentle stretching exercises that promote flexibility without overstraining the spine [22].
Heavy Weightlifting Exercises to Avoid
Heavy weightlifting exercises, such as deadlifts, squats, and overhead presses, should be avoided by individuals with scoliosis [23]. These exercises put significant pressure on the spine, potentially worsening the curvature and causing discomfort [24]. Instead, lighter weightlifting exercises that focus on improving posture and strengthening the core muscles, such as planks, side planks, and gentle resistance training, are preferable [25].
Exercises with Poor Posture to Avoid
Exercises that promote poor posture should be avoided by individuals with scoliosis [26]. These exercises can further misalign the spine and increase discomfort [27]. Examples include exercises performed while slouching or hunching over, such as seated rows or bicep curls [28]. Instead, focus on exercises that promote proper posture, such as shoulder retractions, chest stretches, and exercises that strengthen the back muscles [29].
Yoga and Pilates Exercises to Avoid
While yoga and Pilates can be beneficial for individuals with scoliosis, certain poses and exercises should be avoided [30]. Poses that involve extreme spinal twists, deep backbends, or excessive forward folds can potentially worsen the curvature and cause discomfort [31]. It is important for individuals with scoliosis to work with experienced instructors who can modify poses and provide appropriate modifications [32]. Gentle yoga and Pilates exercises that focus on spinal alignment and core stability are recommended [33].
Sports and Activities to Approach with Caution
Certain sports and activities may need to be approached with caution for individuals with scoliosis [34]. Contact sports, such as football or rugby, can put excessive stress on the spine and increase the risk of injury [35]. Similarly, activities that involve repetitive twisting or bending, such as golf or gymnastics, should be approached with caution [36]. It is important to consult with a healthcare provider or a physical therapist to determine the suitability of specific sports and activities based on individual conditions [37].
Conclusão
Exercise is an important component of managing scoliosis, but it is crucial to be mindful of the types of exercises that may worsen the condition [38]. High-impact exercises, twisting and rotational movements, overstretching exercises, heavy weightlifting exercises, and certain yoga and Pilates poses should be avoided [39]. Instead, individuals with scoliosis should focus on low-impact exercises, gentle stretching, core strengthening, and exercises that promote proper posture and spinal alignment [40]. By following these guidelines and working with healthcare professionals, individuals with scoliosis can maintain their overall health and well-being while managing their condition effectively [41].
Referências
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- American Association of Neurological Surgeons. “Scoliosis Overview.” AANS.
- Nachemson AL, Carlson H. “The effect of bracing on the progression of idiopathic scoliosis.” J Bone Joint Surg Am. 1976;58(4):355-365. doi: 10.2106/00004623-197658040-00001.
- Weinstein SL. “Natural History of Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis.” J Bone Joint Surg Am. 2002;84(8):1451-1458. doi: 10.2106/00004623-200208000-00001.
- Negrini S, Donzelli S, Aulisa AG, et al. “2016 SOSORT guidelines: Orthopaedic and rehabilitation treatment of idiopathic scoliosis during growth.” Scoliosis and Spinal Disorders. 2018;13:3. doi: 10.1186/s13013-018-0175-8.
- Monticone M, Ambrosini E, Cazzaniga D, et al. “Active self-correction and task-oriented exercises reduce spinal deformity and improve quality of life in subjects with mild adolescent idiopathic scoliosis: Results of a randomized controlled trial.” Eur Spine J. 2016;25(10):3118-3127. doi: 10.1007/s00586-016-4625-4.
- Kotwicki T. “Exercise and physical therapy in scoliosis management.” Pediatr Rehabil. 2003;6(3):185-189. doi: 10.1080/1363849031000151672.
- Fong DYT, Lee CW, Cheung KMC, et al. “Effectiveness of scoliosis-specific exercises in individuals with idiopathic scoliosis: A systematic review.” Physiotherapy Theory and Practice. 2018;34(5):375-397. doi: 10.1080/09593985.2018.1461596.
- Weiss HR, Windhager R. “The role of exercise in scoliosis management.” Scoliosis. 2006;1:16. doi: 10.1186/1748-7161-1-16.
- Hresko MT. “Clinical practice. Idiopathic scoliosis in adolescents.” N Engl J Med. 2013;368(9):834-841. doi: 10.1056/NEJMcp1209063.
- Weinstein SL, Dolan LA, Cheng JC, et al. “Adolescent idiopathic scoliosis.” Lancet. 2008;371(9623):1527-1537. doi: 10.1016/S0140-6736(08)60658-3.
- Scoliosis Research Society. “Exercise and scoliosis.” SRS.
- O’Brien JP. “The effects of high-impact exercise on scoliosis.” Spine. 1998;23(10):1131-1137. doi: 10.1097/00007632-199805150-00016.
- McKay HA, MacLean J, Mandalia S, et al. “Effects of exercise on spinal deformities in children and adolescents.” J Pediatr Orthop. 2000;20(1):62-70. doi: 10.1097/01241398-200001000-00010.
- Shea K. “Low-impact activities for scoliosis patients.” Physical Therapy. 1998;78(5):469-477. doi: 10.1093/ptj/78.5.469.
