Massage for scoliosis of 1 degree

Scoliosis is a term familiar to many that means curvature of the spine to one side or the other from the axis. It is classified according to various criteria, including localization, origin, shape, severity, etc. The disease is partial (with one curvature arch), complex (several arcs), right-sided, left-sided, fixed, non-fixed. Scoliosis of the 1st degree  is the mildest form of the four. It is with her that massage is able to correct the situation. [1]

The role of muscles in the condition of the spine

It is known from human anatomy that the condition of the spine largely depends on the muscular corset. It is made up of a group of deep and superficial spinal muscles, thanks to which the vertebrae are connected and the physiological bending of the ridge is ensured, it is protected from physical exertion, the mobility of the whole body becomes possible, and the blood supply to the brain. [2], [3]

I act on the muscles through massage, they are strengthened, and hence the posture is corrected. [4]

Technique of the massage for scoliosis

In carrying out massage for scoliosis, it is important that it is carried out by a specialist who knows his job. There are 2 theories of how to act on the muscles. Some argue that it is correct to relax them from the concave side and tone them up with the convex one, others - the opposite. [5]

In fact, the massage therapist must identify tense and weakened areas, while removing the increased tone from the first, and activating and strengthening the second. [6]

With scoliosis of 1 degree, a reflex massage technique is used, aimed at deep tissues and stimulating blood supply, and, as one of its varieties, a segmental massage that affects active points. [7]

Localization of the curvature of the spine: C-shaped thoracic, lumbar, S-shaped, affecting both parts of the spine, determines the type of manipulation. In all cases, its basic techniques are used, which consist in:

• stroking the entire back;
• massage of the concave part;
• convex;
• circular massage of long and short muscles;
• rectilinear movements on the intercostal spaces.

In the case of scoliosis of the 1st degree of the thoracic region, massage follows:

• neck;
• trapezius muscle;
• breasts;
• belly.

With lumbar curvature, massage continues with the following movements:

• straight and circular loins;
• stroking, kneading the pelvic muscles;
• pressing on the convex part of the back, as if trying to return it to the correct position;
• work with the legs, with particular attention to the limb on the side of the bulge of the spine.

S-type scoliosis requires a combination of the previous two techniques. The duration of the procedure can be from 5 to 30 minutes, and the optimal amount is 10-20 3 times a year. [8]

Massage for scoliosis of 1 degree in children

Massage is especially effective for scoliosis of the 1st degree in children. This is a way not only to stop its further progression, but also to completely correct the curvature of the spine.

In addition, massage relieves the child's nervous excitability, normalizes blood flow, improves the elasticity of joints and ligaments, stabilizes metabolism, and has a beneficial effect on the skin.

The procedure should be started no earlier than 30-40 minutes after a meal. The session is carried out lying on the table without changing the position. Stroking, tapping, rubbing, kneading, vibration are used as massage techniques, but not forceful action.

One course should include up to 20 procedures, the duration of which gradually increases from 15 minutes to 60. The second is recommended to be carried out after 2-4 months, the third - 4-6 months.

Massage three times a year in combination with physiotherapy exercises, swimming, physical activity, eating foods rich in proteins and fiber, proper organization of work and sleeping space (using a hard mattress) will bear fruit and relieve the problem.

Contraindications to the procedure

Despite the fact that massage affects the surface of the human body, it has a number of contraindications associated with internal pathologies. Among them:

• malignant neoplasms;
• renal failure;
• tuberculosis;
• neuralgic problems;
• chronic diseases in the acute stage.

Massage is also not carried out in the presence of purulent processes on the skin, allergic manifestations and other dermatological diseases.