Photo by Toa Heftiba on Unsplash

After the end of growth and development in people with scoliosis, the goal of exercise changes. It is not possible to reduce the scoliotic curvature in adults. However, during life, depending on the size of the scoliotic curve, it is possible for scoliosis to continue to progress. For scoliotic curves that are less than 30 degrees Cobb, there is no scientific evidence that they get worse during life. However, in people with scoliosis between 30 and 50 degrees Cobb, if left untreated, scoliosis tends to worsen by 0.5 degrees per year. For curves greater than 50 degrees Cobb, there is a chance of progression even 1.5 degrees Cobb per year. For adults with scoliosis are recommended to continue with exercises for three-dimensional correction of the spine, in order to prevent the progression of existing scoliosis. It is not possible to reduce the existing scoliotic curve in people who have finished growing, but further progression of the scoliosis can be prevented. 

Gradual worsening of scoliosis in adults with a curvature greater than 30 degrees Cobb is possible if left untreated. However, in adults, who already have pre-existing scoliosis, it is possible that for unknown reasons, the scoliotic curve continues with a more aggressive worsening. This type of adult scoliosis is called restart – progression scoliosis. These people need to do exercises for three-dimensional correction, and in some cases it is necessary to include wearing a brace.

When we talk about the worsening of scoliosis, it is inevitable to mention “de-novo” scoliosis. De novo is a type of scoliosis that most often occurs after the age of 50, in the postmenopausal period, in people who have not been diagnosed with this deformity before. This type of scoliosis most often occurs in women, it is most often localized in the lumbar segment and is usually is combined with osteoporosis, osteopenia, laterolistesis and other degenerative changes. De novo scoliosis usually has very progressive nature, and it is necessary include exercises, and the use of the brace is often included.

Regardless of the type of worsening scoliosis, it is necessary to include three-dimensional exercises to correct the deformity. Schroth three-dimensional exercises have been proven to give results in stopping the worsening of scoliosis, however, in addition, Schroth exercises also improve the quality of life. With Schroth exercises we reduce back pain, achieve increasing of the flexibility as well as functionality.