Scoliosis is a condition that is often feared by many, especially those who are physically active. Mostly idiopathic (or with unknown causes), scoliosis appears mainly in female teenagers. But can scoliosis really affect one’s sports performance?
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| Image source: active.com |
Those with scoliosis may experience difficulty in moving than those with healthy spines. It can be a problem as mobility and flexibility play a big part in strenuous sports activities. Some individuals with scoliosis struggle to perform their best when it comes to athletics.
There are certain sports where scoliosis can cause health problems or injuries for the athlete. While it’s not necessary for individuals to quit a sport entirely, young athletes especially should be careful when training. Long-distance running can compress the spine, hyperextend the mid-back, or unevenly work the spine. This is why a lot of runners with scoliosis often complain that they experience difficulty in breathing and back pains as they perform tasks.
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| Image source: newyorktimes.com |
But even if other physical activities should be limited, it should not be a hindrance for teenagers to stop doing sports altogether. After all, the right amount of physical movement can play a big role in successful scoliosis treatment.
Joseph Yazdi, M.D., is a physician at Tesson Heights Orthopaedic & Arthroscopic Associates, P.C. Read more about spinal health by visiting this blog.
