Changes in Spinal Alignment and Physiotherapy Treatment Applied to Scoliosis: A Systematic Literature Review

Abstract

Nowadays, the number of people complaining of back pain is increasing, but this pain is associated with scoliosis. However, scoliosis can be defined as the spine curving sideways, forming an "S" or "C" shape. However, there are several types of scoliosis: congenital, idiopathic, neuromuscular and degenerative. The most common is idiopathic scoliosis, which mostly affects children and adolescents, while congenital scoliosis is present at birth due to malformation of the spine. Neuromuscular scoliosis, on the other hand, affects the individual's neurological or muscular condition, followed by degenerative scoliosis, which develops in adulthood or the elderly and is caused by wear and tear on the spine. The aim of this study is to understand the forms of physiotherapy treatments applied to scoliosis. Subsequently, the physiotherapeutic treatments for this pathology include techniques such as RPG (Global Postural Reeducation), Pilates and waistcoats. RPG is a method that seeks to re-educate posture through stretching and muscle strengthening, while Pilates focuses on strengthening and improving flexibility. In addition, the back brace is used to align the spine during treatment. These treatments are aimed at a wide range of people, from children to teenagers, adults and the elderly, depending on the type and severity of the scoliosis. The benefits include improved posture, pain reduction and muscle strengthening. In conclusion, the results of physiotherapy treatment for scoliosis can vary from person to person, but many patients report a significant improvement in their quality of life, a reduction in the progression of the curvature and pain relief. Finally, treatment should be personalised and monitored by qualified professionals.