Playing sports is fun, interactive, and good for the body. People with scoliosis, however, must think twice before joining in due to their spinal condition.

Is soccer really threatening to a scoliosis patient? The answer actually varies depending on the severity of the person’s scoliosis condition. Soccer, just like any other sport, is not a hindrance to patients with scoliosis as long as their condition is mild. In fact, playing soccer is good for those with mild scoliosis because it helps them to strengthen their muscles.

For patients with mild scoliosis, it is often recommended that they play aerobic sports because they can strengthen the core muscles of their body, which helps to stabilize the spine. A patient with stronger core muscles is better able to stave off the progression of spinal curvature, as well as avoid degenerative spinal conditions that can further complicate scoliosis.  Furthermore, even though mild scoliosis can result in physical deformities, they are often deemed asymptomatic. Physical deformities at this stage usually involve the shoulders or shoulder blades and therefore do not create any obstruction in sports like soccer that are more lower-body oriented.

However, patients with severe scoliosis are prohibited to play soccer or any other sport.  Engaging in that level of strenuous physical activity can actually pose a threat to both the scoliosis condition and the life of the patient.  Patients with moderate to severe scoliosis regularly experience pain and breathing difficulties, so attempting to play soccer would not only be a painful experience, but could also pose a threat to their lives.

So far, there is no proof that playing soccer either slows down or speeds up the curvature of the spine. It can, however, improve the patient’s ability to physically cope with their scoliosis condition, if they are at a state that allows such activity.  If you have scoliosis, it is very important that you consult your chiropractor before engaging in any physical activity, so you can be properly advised on what to do and what not to do.

-Dr Sid
Esprit Wellness
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