Scoliosis Physiotherapy in Hyderabad — Spinal Curve Treatment & Posture Correction
Scoliosis — an abnormal lateral curvature of the spine — affects 2–3% of the population. When identified and treated early in children, scoliosis-specific physiotherapy can significantly reduce progression and prevent the need for bracing or surgery.
Scoliosis is a three-dimensional spinal deformity — a lateral (sideways) curve of the spine of more than 10 degrees (Cobb angle on X-ray). The most common type is adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS), which affects girls more often and typically develops during the growth spurt at puberty. Adult scoliosis includes degenerative scoliosis (from age-related disc and joint changes) and adult progression of adolescent curves. Dr. Harisha (MPT) at Sri Anand Child and Neuro Center provides scoliosis-specific physiotherapy — the Schroth method and Scientific Exercise Approach to Scoliosis (SEAS) — which has the best evidence for reducing curve progression in mild-to-moderate scoliosis.
Understanding Scoliosis — Types & Who Is Affected
Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis (AIS) — Age 10–18
The most common type (80% of all scoliosis). Cause unknown. Develops during the adolescent growth spurt — curves can progress rapidly while growing. Girls with right thoracic (right-sided upper back) curves have the highest risk of progression. Early detection through school screening or parental observation is crucial.
Warning Signs to Look For in Children
Parents may notice: one shoulder higher than the other, one shoulder blade more prominent, one hip higher or sticking out more, a visible curve in the back when standing, or the child's clothing not sitting symmetrically. The Adam's Forward Bend Test (bending forward — a rib hump on one side is visible with significant scoliosis) is a key screening tool.
Adult Degenerative Scoliosis
Develops in adults over 50 from degeneration of discs and facet joints — causing an asymmetric collapse and lateral spinal drift. Associated with back pain, leg pain (from nerve compression), and progressive postural change. Physiotherapy, core strengthening, and pain management are the main treatments.
Congenital Scoliosis & Neuromuscular Scoliosis
Congenital scoliosis: present at birth from vertebral abnormalities — often requires surgical management. Neuromuscular scoliosis: in children with cerebral palsy, muscular dystrophy, or spinal muscular atrophy — caused by muscle imbalance. Physiotherapy is an important part of management in neuromuscular scoliosis.
When Is Scoliosis Serious?
Curves under 25° in a growing child: physiotherapy and monitoring. Curves 25–45° in a growing child: physiotherapy + brace (TLSO — thoracolumbosacral orthosis). Curves over 45–50°: surgical evaluation (spinal fusion). Curves causing significant pain, breathing difficulty, or cosmetic deformity also require urgent assessment.
Measurement & Monitoring — What Is a Cobb Angle?
Scoliosis is measured on a standing full-spine X-ray using the Cobb angle — the angle between the most tilted vertebrae above and below the curve. Monitoring every 6 months during growth is standard. Physiotherapy aims to reduce the Cobb angle (or prevent increase) in mild-to-moderate curves.
Scoliosis Physiotherapy Treatment at Sri Anand CNC
Schroth Method — Evidence-Based Scoliosis Physiotherapy
The Schroth method is a 3-dimensional approach to scoliosis physiotherapy — using breathing, postural correction, and specific corrective exercises tailored to the individual's curve pattern. Studies show it can reduce Cobb angle by 5–10 degrees and reduce brace prescription rate in adolescent scoliosis. Dr. Harisha applies Schroth principles at Sri Anand CNC.
Core Strengthening & Postural Training
Strengthening the deep core muscles (transversus abdominis, multifidus, erector spinae) stabilises the spine and reduces pain. Postural training ensures the child maintains corrective posture during daily activities — sitting, standing, walking, and sports.
Breathing Exercises (Rotational Angular Breathing)
A key component of scoliosis physiotherapy is teaching the child to use breathing to de-rotate the thoracic curve — breathing into the concave (flat) side of the chest while breathing out on the convex side. This is the foundation of Schroth therapy and helps gradually reshape the rib cage.
Assessment & Monitoring
Dr. Harisha performs Adam's Forward Bend Test, measures the angle of trunk rotation (ATR) with a scoliometer, assesses muscle imbalance, and reviews X-rays. Progress is monitored every 3 months. If curve progression is noted, urgent referral to an orthopaedic spine surgeon is arranged.
Adult Scoliosis — Pain Management & Functional Improvement
For adults with degenerative scoliosis: exercise therapy (extension exercises, core strengthening), manual therapy for pain relief, TENS and heat for symptom control, and ergonomic advice. Surgery is reserved for progressive neurological symptoms, intractable pain, or rapidly worsening deformity.
Why Choose Sri Anand Hospital?
Treated by: Dr. Harisha · MPT (Master of Physiotherapy) · Musculoskeletal & Paediatric Physiotherapy · Chanda Nagar
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Sri Anand Child & Neuro Hospital · Open 24/7 · Chanda Nagar, Hyderabad