Understanding Scoliosis Scoliosis is a lateral curvature of the spine that also involves rotation. It creates asymmetrical muscle tension, with some muscles chronically shortened and others lengthened. This asymmetry affects mobility, posture, and sometimes breathing. The severity of scoliosis varies widely. Mild curves often require no treatment. Moderate curves benefit from exercise. Severe curves may require bracing or surgery. Work with a healthcare provider to understand your curve and appropriate interventions. Exercise helps manage scoliosis at any severity level. Goals of Scoliosis Exercise Exercise for scoliosis aims to improve symmetry and function rather than straighten the spine. Goals include stretching shortened muscles on the concave side, strengthening lengthened muscles on the convex side, improving breathing capacity, and maintaining mobility. Asymmetrical exercise addresses asymmetrical problems. Generic stretching helps but targeted work produces better results. Start your 14-day free trial to access scoliosis-appropriate programs. Mobility Exercises for Scoliosis These exercises promote symmetrical movement and spinal mobility. Thoracic Rotation JME 171 Sitting in your chair, raise one leg up and in front of you. Then, bend at your knee to find 90 degrees and then return to a straight position. Spinal Mobility JME 170 Find stability by holding onto the back of your chair or desk. Bend at your knee to raise your leg backward - as high as your are able to - and return to the floor. Hip Mobility JME 145 Standing, with your knee bent at 90 degrees, lift your leg up to find your end range of motion. Each rep, try to find more space to move your leg higher - but don't force anything. Listen to your body and find what works for you. Shoulder Blade Work JME 189 *Desk Required: With one hand on your desk, bend your upper body forward while maintaining the position of your hand on the desk. Feel a gentle stretch in your forearm and then return to the start. Breathing and Posture Scoliosis can restrict breathing on one side. Practice deep breathing that expands the restricted side. Postural awareness helps maintain the most symmetrical alignment possible. Combine mobility work with breathing and awareness practices for comprehensive management. Start your 14-day free trial and manage scoliosis with simplmobility.