Massage for 1st degree scoliosis

Scoliosis is a term familiar to many, denoting the curvature of the spine in one direction or another from the axis. It is classified according to various features, including localization, origin, form, severity, etc. The disease can be partial (with one arc of curvature), complex (several arcs), right-sided, left-sided, fixed, non-fixed. Scoliosis of the 1st degree is its mildest form of the four. It is with this form that massage can 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 curvature of the spine is ensured, it is protected from physical stress, mobility of the whole body and blood supply to the brain become possible. [ 2 ], [ 3 ]

I influence the muscles through massage, they are strengthened, and therefore the posture is corrected. [ 4 ]

Technique scoliosis massage

When performing a massage for scoliosis, it is important that it is performed by a specialist who knows his business. There are 2 theories on how to influence the muscles. Some argue that it is correct to relax them from the concave side and tone them from the convex side, others - the opposite. [ 5 ]

In fact, the massage therapist must determine the tense and weakened areas, while removing the increased tone from the former, and activating and strengthening the latter. [ 6 ]

For scoliosis of the 1st degree, a reflex massage technique is used, aimed at deep tissues and stimulating blood supply, and as one of its varieties - segmental, affecting active points. [ 7 ]

The 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, consisting of:

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

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

• necks;
• trapezius muscle;
• breasts;
• belly.

In case of lumbar curvature, the massage continues with the following movements:

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

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

Massage for scoliosis of the 1st 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 eating. The session is carried out lying on the table without changing the position. The massage techniques used are stroking, tapping, rubbing, kneading, vibration, but not force impact.

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 therapeutic exercise, swimming, physical activity, eating foods rich in protein and fiber, and proper organization of the work and sleeping area (using a hard mattress) will bear fruit and get rid of 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 performed in the presence of purulent processes on the skin, allergic manifestations and other dermatological diseases.