Condition · Back & Spine
Scoliosis
How Myofascial Release addresses it, and what to expect.
Scoliosis is a medical condition characterized by an abnormal sideways curvature of the spine. In individuals with scoliosis, the spine may take on an “S” or “C” shape instead of the normal straight alignment. The curvature can occur in any part of the spine, including the cervical (neck), thoracic (upper back), and lumbar (lower back) regions. The degree of spinal curvature, the age of onset, and other factors determine the severity of scoliosis. Mild cases may not cause noticeable symptoms, while more severe curvature can lead to issues such as back pain, uneven shoulder or hip levels, and respiratory problems.
Why fascia is involved
A curve is held in place by tissue, not only by bone.
In scoliosis the spine curves sideways, and the fascia on the inside of each curve shortens and thickens over years to hold that shape. That tightened tissue pulls on ribs, hips and shoulders, restricts breathing on one side, loads the muscles unevenly and creates pain that increases with time and fatigue. Even where the curve itself is structural, the tension around it is not fixed.
Myofascial Release does not straighten the spine, and it does not claim to. It releases the fascia that has shortened along the curve and the compensations in the ribs, pelvis, hips and neck, using sustained gentle pressure. People with scoliosis often find they breathe more easily, stand with less effort and carry less pain, and adolescents may use it alongside bracing or monitoring.
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