Conditions We Treat
Scoliosis
Uneven
shoulder blades?
Uneven
hips?
Rotating
spine?
If ‘yes’ then you may have scoliosis, a condition of the spine
Isolated Back Strengthening
What is Scoliosis?
Scoliosis is a condition in which the spine curves sideways, and knowing when to seek treatment is important to prevent complications. You should consider seeing a doctor or medical professional if you notice visible changes in posture, such as uneven shoulders, one hip higher than the other, or a rib cage that appears more prominent on one side.
Difficulty standing up straight or clothes fitting unevenly can also be early signs. For children and teenagers, especially during growth spurts, early evaluation is essential because curves can worsen quickly as the body grows. Adults should seek treatment if scoliosis causes persistent back pain, numbness, weakness, or difficulty walking.
Sudden or severe pain, rapid progression of the curve, or problems with bowel or bladder control require immediate medical attention. Even if symptoms seem mild, a medical evaluation can determine the severity of the curve and if any treatment maybe necessary.
What are the symptoms of scoliosis
Scoliosis is a sideways curvature of the spine, often diagnosed during childhood or adolescence (though adults can develop it too).
Visible Physical Changes
- Uneven shoulders
- One shoulder blade more prominent than the other
- Uneven waist
- One hip higher than the other
- Rib hump (more noticeable when bending forward)
- Back Pain
Back Pain
- More common in adults
- Usually mild to moderate
- Can worsen after long periods of sitting or standing
Muscle Imbalance
- Tightness on one side of the back
- Muscle fatigue
Changes in Posture
- Leaning to one side
- Head not centered over pelvis
In Severe Cases
- Reduced height
- Breathing difficulties (if the curve compresses the lungs)
Secondary Problems Caused by Scoliosis
If scoliosis progresses or is left untreated (especially moderate to severe curves), it can lead to additional issues:
Breathing Problems
Severe thoracic (mid-back) curves can compress the lungs and reduce lung capacity.
Heart Strain (Rare)
Very severe curves can put pressure on the heart, affecting circulation.
Chronic Pain
- Ongoing lower back pain
- Degenerative disc disease in adults
- Nerve compression (can cause leg pain or numbness)
Arthritis & Early Spine Wear
Abnormal alignment increases wear and tear on joints.
Emotional & Psychological Effects
- Body image concerns
- Anxiety or low self-esteem (especially in teens)
Sciatica (in adults)
Compression of spinal nerves may cause:
- Shooting leg pain
- Tingling
- Weakness
What results can I expect from treatment at Core Strength Studios?
This depends on several factors:
- Your Age
- How big a curve you have
- If you are still growing
- How consistent you are with your exercises
Physical therapy will not cure scoliosis but it can help to slow the curve down, improve your strength, mobility and ability and reduce and improve pain.
Scoliosis Treatment
In moderate to severe cases, scoliosis is usually corrected through surgery but in mild cases, corrective exercise can help by restoring imbalances in the muscles caused by abnormal positioning and the inability of the spine to move as it should.
At Core Strength Studios, your back pain rehabilitation programme will address these imbalances by isolating and strengthening your back muscles which are likely weak and deconditioned through lack of function.
Your programme will also include exercises to support correct posture along with sports massage, stretching and flexibility to help release any tight muscles you’re experiencing as a result of your scoliosis.
If you have scoliosis and would like to speak to a specialist for an assessment and to discuss treatment options, we would like to invite you to a complimentary 60-minute consultation. To register, click here, complete the form and we’ll be in touch to make your booking.
Why work with Core Strength Studios to treat Scoliosis
Working with a specialist like Core Strength Studios (or any clinic focused on scoliosis-specific care) can offer benefits over general physical therapy — especially if your goal is not just pain relief but functional improvement, posture correction, and slowing progression of the curve. The best results are from those who have put exercise and strengthening into their normal daily life routine. It is not a quick fix but a lifestyle change and we are here to help guide and support you every step of the way.
How do we treat Scoliosis?
We treat scoliosis based around strength, muscle balancing, stretching, soft tissue release (types of massage), balance and body awareness. We use our unique MedX lumbar extension machine for isolated spinal strengthening and Core strengthening exercises.
Can Scoliosis be cured?
No it cannot be cured. Early diagnosis can help slow a curve and can keep and maintain pain free movement. In severe cases surgery maybe necessary but rehabilitation after is vital.
Can I exercise with Scoliosis?
Yes you can. In fact exercising will normally help to improve your mobility and ability to perform tasks and reduce pain levels. It is however important to make strengthening exercises part of your lifestyle to help prevent or slow down the curve.
Can scoliosis get worse?
This depends on several reasons. If you are still growing and are not taking any steps to help maintain muscle balance and postural strength. Growth spurts tend to cause the biggest changes in teens. Adults tend to have slower changes and tend to be linked to age related degeneration and muscle weakness.
Is Treatment Painful?
Exercise based treatment here at Core Strength Studios requires effort from you as well as us. There maybe muscle aches and stiffness after treatment sessions, much the same as starting on any exercise based activities. These are short term and change as the treatment progresses. Other than that physical tiredness from the exertion can be experienced after a treatment session although usually you will feel more mobile.
What should I expect from working with core strength studios?
We offer a complimentary consultation first off. This is a thorough look through your history and your physical ability, mobility and strength. Most people who come to us have already been diagnosed by the medical profession and have scans and Xray that show the level of curve they may have. Treatment sessions are one to one with the same therapist on each visit. The sessions are an hour long and each visit will have a follow up and reflection since the last session.