Scoliosis is a medical condition characterized by an abnormal curvature of the spine. The severity of scoliosis symptoms can vary depending on the degree and location of the curvature, as well as your age and overall health. Many times, scoliosis can result in sharp or aching neck pain during daily activities. If left untreated, scoliosis can progress and lead to further discomfort and decreased mobility.
Knowing the connection between scoliosis and neck pain can help you find treatment options that target your symptoms, such as physical therapy. With the right treatment plan, you can decrease your neck and back pain and increase your quality of life while living with scoliosis.
What is scoliosis?
Scoliosis is a medical condition in which the spine has an abnormal, lateral curve. This can cause the spine to take on a "C" or "S" shape, putting pressure on the neck and back.
Scoliosis is most commonly diagnosed during adolescence, but it can occur at any age. The cause of scoliosis is often unknown, but it can be caused by congenital abnormalities, neuromuscular conditions or degenerative changes in the spine.
Scoliosis can lead to neck pain because the abnormal curvature of the spine puts pressure on the neck and back. This pressure can lead to muscle strain, joint irritation and nerve compression. Over time, the pressure can cause chronic pain and discomfort, making it difficult to perform daily activities. In severe cases, scoliosis-related neck pain can be debilitating.
In addition to neck pain, scoliosis can cause other symptoms, including:
- Back pain.
- Uneven shoulders.
- Uneven hips.
- Reduced range of motion.
- Fatigue.
3 ways to manage scoliosis neck pain
Scoliosis-related neck pain can be manageable with proper treatment. To help ease scoliosis-related neck pain, a combination of the following strategies can help:
- Physical therapy — Physical therapy can be an effective way to ease your scoliosis-related neck pain. For example, strengthening exercises can help fortify the muscles that support your neck, easing pressure on your spine. In addition, physical therapists can align your spinal column and perform manual therapy to help improve your posture and release tension in your neck tissue. Lastly, physical therapists can design a personalized exercise program that increases blood flow to your neck and shoulders and improves mobility. This may include stretches and range-of-motion exercises that target your neck and upper back.
- Ice and heat — Ice therapy can be particularly useful when you are experiencing a flare-up of scoliosis symptoms, including neck pain. It can also help numb the area and reduce your sensation of pain. Meanwhile, heat therapy can be used to help relax your neck muscles and improve circulation to the area. This can help reduce muscle tension, stiffness and pain.
- Bracing — A brace specifically designed for scoliosis can provide support to the spine, reducing pressure and helping to relieve pain. The brace is typically worn for a set period of time each day and may be adjusted as needed to ensure proper fit and support. A brace designed specifically for scoliosis can help support the spine and reduce pain.
In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to correct the curvature of your spine and relieve neck pain caused by scoliosis. Surgery may involve the use of rods, screws, or other devices to straighten your spine and relieve pressure on your neck. Physical therapy treatments can support you both before and after recovery.
It’s important to speak with a doctor or physical therapist to determine the best course of action for managing your scoliosis-related neck pain. In some cases, a combination of treatments may be necessary to achieve optimal results. With proper treatment, individuals with scoliosis can live with less pain and enjoy daily activities.
Alliance PTP is ready to help you find top-notch PT for scoliosis-related neck pain
Physical therapists know that your neck and spine are intricately connected. That’s why physical therapy treatments like exercises and stretches can ease your scoliosis symptoms, including neck pain. At Alliance Physical Therapy Partners, we’re proudly bringing together physical therapy practices across the country to help people get the high-quality PT they need.
Want to see a physical therapist in person? We can put you in touch with an Alliance PTP partner that’s close to you and that can help you address your scoliosis-related neck pain.
Not keen on in-person PT sessions or not close to an Alliance PTP partner? No worries. We also offer effective and affordable virtual physical therapy through our Agile Virtual Physical Therapy platform.
Come find help for your scoliosis symptoms today!
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