Scoliosis & Physiotherapy: A Natural Way to Relieve Pain and Restore Posture

Could Scoliosis Be Affecting Your Body More Than You Think?

physiotherapy back assessment

At Wellbeing Physiotherapy, we often meet people who come to us with persistent discomfort—perhaps in their neck, back, hip, or even shoulder—without realising that an underlying scoliosis may be contributing to their symptoms.

Scoliosis, a condition that causes the spine to curve in three dimensions, isn’t always dramatic or easy to spot. But even a subtle spinal curve can affect posture, mobility, and comfort over time.

What Is Scoliosis, and Why Does It Matter?

Scoliosis refers to an abnormal curvature of the spine, often shaped like an “S” or “C” when viewed from behind. What many people don’t realise is that scoliosis involves more than just a sideways bend—it includes rotation of the vertebrae and postural compensation throughout the body.

It can be:

• Idiopathic, most commonly appearing in adolescents with no known cause

• Related to degeneration or osteoporosis, particularly in older adults

• Congenital or neuromuscular, less common but typically diagnosed earlier in life

Over time, an unaddressed curve—especially if it’s progressing—can lead to compensatory strain in muscles and joints, resulting in chronic pain, stiffness, or fatigue.

What Might Scoliosis Feel Like?

People with scoliosis don’t always feel pain where the spine curves. Instead, they often experience uneven muscle tension, postural imbalance, or strain in seemingly unrelated areas.

Common signs and symptoms may include:

• A rib hump when bending forward

• Uneven shoulders, hips, or waist

• Neck, back, or hip discomfort—especially on one side

• Reduced spinal flexibility

• A sense of postural fatigue when standing or sitting for long periods

These signs are often missed or misattributed—until a thorough postural assessment reveals the bigger picture.

Diagnosis: More Than Just a Label

If scoliosis is suspected, we may recommend a spinal X-ray or EOS scan to measure the Cobb angle, which helps classify the curve:

• Mild: Less than 20 degrees

• Moderate: 20 to 40 degrees

• Severe: Over 40 degrees

Identifying the curve’s severity, direction, and potential progression allows us to tailor treatment to your needs—whether you’re 15 or 55.

X-ray Scoliosis Curve

So What Can Be Done?

There’s no single “cure” for scoliosis, but many people manage it successfully with the right support. At Wellbeing Physiotherapy, our approach focuses on gentle, evidence-based interventions designed to help you feel and move better.

We integrate a number of strategies, including:

Individualised Exercise Programs

We draw from Schroth-based principles, a method developed in Germany by Katharina Schroth, who had scoliosis herself. This approach uses posture-specific breathing, muscle training, and guided correction techniques to help address the three-dimensional nature of scoliosis.

Targeted Stretching and Strengthening

We design movement routines to stretch tight areas and strengthen stabilising muscles, helping to rebalance the body and support spinal alignment.

Manual Therapy

Where appropriate, we provide hands-on treatment to relieve muscle tension or joint restriction. However, we always explain that manual therapy alone cannot correct a spinal curve—it’s one of several tools we may use in combination.

Education and Self-Management

We take the time to educate you about posture, movement strategies, and daily habits that can reduce discomfort and improve confidence. Our goal is to give you the tools to care for your spine long after your session ends.

A Note on Expectations

Scoliosis is complex. It doesn’t always require bracing or surgery, and it doesn’t always cause pain—but when symptoms appear, proper care makes a difference. If you’ve been advised to “wait and watch,” but you’re feeling increasingly limited or uncomfortable, a physiotherapy review can offer new insights and options.

Even small improvements in posture, mobility, or body awareness can lead to meaningful changes in how you feel each day.

How We Work at Wellbeing Physiotherapy

We don’t take a one-size-fits-all approach. Whether you’re newly diagnosed or managing scoliosis for years, we tailor your care based on your goals, activity level, and how your spine is behaving. You’ll be supported by a team that values both clinical evidence and human connection.

We’re here to help you move better, feel stronger, and live well—at any age.

Interested in Learning More?

If you’re unsure whether scoliosis may be contributing to your pain, or if you’d like to better understand your posture and spine health, we’d be happy to help.

Wellbeing Physiotherapy

West Leederville

0478 516 992

www.wellbeingphysiotherapy.com.au