When you’ve been diagnosed with scoliosis, it’s vital to understand that there are many ways to successfully treat and manage your condition. From lifestyle choices to Edmond physical therapy resources to community support, there’s a wealth of care options available outside of your doctor’s office. Here’s what you should know when you’re living with scoliosis.
The Importance of Nutrition and Exercise
While your doctor will keep an eye on the progression of your scoliosis and make appropriate treatment recommendations, improving your overall health through better lifestyle and activity choices may keep the condition from worsening. Experts recommend you follow these tips:
Eat Well
Maintain a healthy weight and boost body functions by eating nutritious foods. Since low bone density and certain vitamin deficiencies have been linked to scoliosis, consuming foods rich in calcium, vitamin B12, and vitamin D is frequently beneficial. Low-fat dairy, fish, whole grains, and a variety of produce are all good sources of these critical nutrients.
Get Moving
Once your doctor clears you for exercise, engaging in activities that strengthen your core and lower back is likely to decrease scoliosis discomfort. Moves such as pelvic tilts, plank position, and rotational stretches are recommended, as is kettlebell lifting. Any activity at all is helpful, as even a daily walk around the block keeps the spine loose and flexible.
How Physical Therapy Can Be Effective
Because scoliosis can be a painful condition that impedes mobility and comfort, your doctor is likely to recommend physical therapy to help manage these concerns. By following your therapist’s guidance, it’s possible to achieve:
- Better spinal alignment, posture, and strength
- Increased range of motion
- Decreased pain
- Improved breathing
Many scoliosis sufferers make the mistake of thinking physical therapy is only for accident or injury rehabilitation. However, after experiencing the benefits of this practice yourself, you might consider making it a career choice so you can positively impact others who share your condition. Just do a web search for “physical therapy jobs near me” to see what opportunities are available in your area.
Seek Support Groups To Cope With Scoliosis
It’s also important to recognize that while scoliosis is a physical problem, it often has a negative impact on mental health. Dealing with pain and restricted movement, along with societal misunderstandings of the condition, may lead to feelings of isolation and depression.
Fortunately, local, national, and internet-based support groups are available to help you cope. Sharing your experiences and learning about how others tackle the challenges of scoliosis is both inspirational and comforting. Coupling peer-group connection with physical care is a great way to help you feel better on all fronts.
Now that you’ve learned more about living with scoliosis, it’s time to take positive steps toward managing yours. To find the best providers of “physical therapy near me”, use a web search of scoliosis specialists to find the right pair of healing hands in your area. Incorporating physical therapy and these other tips into your self-care routine will set you up to successfully manage your scoliosis.