Exercise as a Mean of Treating Idiopathic Scoliosis in

Children and Adolescents: Practical Applications

Athena Akritdou, Evridiki Tsougou, Sofia Ventouri & Vassiliki Zisi

Department of Physical Education & Sport Science, Democritus University of Thrace, Hellas

Abstract

Idiopathic scoliosis is a three-dimensional deformity of the spine of unknown etiology, which is present in a remarkable percentage of school-age children. This percentage in Greece is up to 1.7%. Early rehabilita- tion of this deformity is very important, since its progressive trend will result to children being suffering from its unpleasant associative symptoms in adulthood. Physical exercises targeting to postural correction with the use of strengthening, flexibility, balance and coordination exercises are considered important in im- proving or inhibiting the progress of scoliosis. Physical exercises have also a significant contribution in im- proving the respiratory function and the limited working capacity in scoliosis patients. This study presents an exercise program for children and adolescents with light or mild idiopathic scoliosis, which is also appli- cable on the Physical Education curriculum at school. The rules, the targets and the rational for the design and application of similar programs are also described.

Key words: rehabilitation, spine, posture