Scoliosis is defined as sideways curvatures of the spine. Many people have mild scoliosis without even being aware as they experience no discomfort or pain.
However for others scoliosis may be the source of chronic back pain. In its severe forms scoliosis may cause the rib cage to press against the lungs, making it more difficult to breathe.
From a Rolfing point of view, that is a holistic integrative approach to postural alignment, scoliosis is not just a curvature of the spine but really a curvature that twists and spirals throughout the whole body at every levels.
As a matter of fact, scoliosis is often associated with the following asymmetries:
- The head might be tilted causing neck stiffness or pain;
- One shoulder appears higher than the other;
- The waist might be uneven with the pelvis shifted to one side;
- One hip might appear higher than the other;
- One leg might appear shorter;
- A knee might be rotated;
- The arch of one foot might flatten.
During a Rolfing session we address not just the spine but the whole body with all its compensatory patterns. This is done using deep myofascial manipulations, assisted movement and breathing exercises.
The aim of Rolfing sessions when addressing scoliosis is a general lengthening of the body and the spine, a softer and less compressed appearance and greater freedom and mobility throughout the body.