Treating Scoliosis with Massage Therapy

About Scoliosis

Normal and Abnormal spine

Scoliosis is curvature of the spine that often results in a curve like the letter “S” or “C.”  Some people are diagnosed at birth, while others develop scoliosis over time.  Some of the causes of scoliosis include muscle spasms, sensory-motor amnesia, imbalance posture, and scar tissue.  A normal spine is considered to have 10 degrees or less of curvature.  Mild cases of scoliosis consist of 20 degrees of curves, while moderate cases are 20-50 degrees.  A spine that is curved at 40-50 degrees is considered a serve case and the patient will suffer from pain and degenerative joint diseases.  The most common demographic of people affected by this deformity are adolescent girls because their bodies have not reached a mature condition.  If left untreated, scoliosis can cause back pain, headaches, and breathing problems. 

Massage Therapy Used to Treat Scoliosis

Massage therapists can use a massage technique called deep tissue massage to improve the condition of scoliosis.  This type of massage can enhance blood circulation and relieve muscle pain and tensions within the body.  By massaging this area, the continuous pull on the spine is relaxed.  Massage is more effective on young people with scoliosis because they have stronger bones than individuals over the age of 25.  Another type of massage, called cranial-sacral therapy, is proven to relieve pain or symptoms of scoliosis.  The massage therapist will address restricted tissues around the spinal column by gently gripping the muscles to help mobilize the spine.  These massage therapy techniques can provide pain relief to overstretched muscles and reduced tension on the spinal column.