Living (Well) With Scoliosis: How Physiotherapy and Pilates Can Support Your Spine
You might first notice your child’s shoulders sitting unevenly, or one hip slightly higher after a growth spurt. Maybe they’ve started to mention some back discomfort or you’ve spotted a curve when they bend forward. It can feel worrying—but you’re not alone, and there’s plenty we can do to help.
Scoliosis is more common than many realise, affecting around 2–3% of the population—most often during adolescence. The good news? A diagnosis doesn’t always mean pain or long-term problems. With the right support and a personalised plan, many people manage scoliosis successfully and continue to live strong, active lives.
As a physiotherapist and Pilates instructor, scoliosis is something I know on a personal level—I was diagnosed as a teen and began Pilates at 14 to manage my own low back pain. That early experience not only helped my body but also sparked a lifelong passion for Pilates and whole-body care.
What is Scoliosis?
Scoliosis is defined as a lateral curvature of the spine.
Scoliosis is a condition where the spine curves sideways by more than 10 degrees, often accompanied by a rotation of the vertebrae. The spine may appear to curve in a C or S shape. It can present in different ways—such as uneven shoulders, one hip sitting higher than the other, a leg length discrepancy, a visible curve in the back or ribcage, or general discomfort and pain.
Scoliosis exists on a spectrum. While many people have mild curves that cause few issues and respond well to conservative care, others may need more structured support.
The severity of scoliosis is assessed using an x-ray to measure the Cobb angle, which helps guide treatment decisions:
Mild scoliosis (10–20°): Usually managed with exercise, postural training, and regular monitoring.
Moderate scoliosis (20–40°): May require bracing, particularly during periods of growth.
Severe scoliosis (>40–50°): Can require surgical intervention, especially if the curve is progressing or beginning to impact lung or heart function.
With early detection and the right approach—including physiotherapy, Pilates, and scoliosis-specific exercise—you can manage symptoms, improve posture, and maintain an active lifestyle.
There are several types of scoliosis:
Idiopathic scoliosis is the most common form and has no identifiable cause. It typically develops during adolescence.
Congenital scoliosis is present from birth and results from abnormal development of the spineal bones in the womb.
Postural scoliosis, also known as non-structural scoliosis, it is a temporary curvature and can be reversed with changes to posture and function.
Neuromuscular scoliosis occurs in people with underlying conditions that affect the nerves and muscles—such as cerebral palsy or muscular dystrophy—which can alter how the spine grows and moves.
While some curves progress, many remain stable, and early conservative care can significantly impact quality of life and function.
The Role of Physiotherapy in Scoliosis Management
Physiotherapists play a key role in scoliosis care. At Kaylana Wellness Collective, our physiotherapy approach is highly individualised and evidence-informed. We begin with a thorough assessment of your spinal curvature, postural habits, mobility, strength and lifestyle to tailor a plan just for you.
Our physiotherapy support may include:
Postural training and education
Targeted core and spinal strengthening
Stretching and mobility for tight or restricted areas
Breathwork to optimise ribcage mobility and thoracic expansion
Unilateral exercises to account for the bodies imbalances
Manual therapy for pain or tension relief
We also monitor for signs of progression and collaborate with spinal specialists when needed.
How Pilates Complements Scoliosis Care
Pilates is a valuable tool in the management of scoliosis.
Pilates is a powerful and evidence-based approach to supporting people with scoliosis.
Pilates for scoliosis focuses on:
Spinal elongation and decompression techniques
Strengthening of the core and postural muscles
Trunk stability exercises
Improved body awareness and alignment
Activation of underused or inhibited muscles
Breath control to support ribcage mobility and thoracic expansion
Research supports these benefits too. A 2020 randomised controlled trial published in Physiotherapy Theory and Practice found that people with scoliosis who took part in a 12-week Pilates program experienced significantly less back and lower back pain, along with noticeable improvements in posture and functional ability compared to a control group.
At Kaylana Wellness Collective, our Pilates sessions are led by a physiotherapist with a Diploma of Professional Pilates Instruction. With both clinical expertise and lived experience of scoliosis myself, I understand just how important it is to move in a way that feels safe, supportive, and empowering. Each session is individually tailored to support spinal alignment, core strength, and mobility—helping you build body awareness and move with greater ease and confidence.
You can explore our Pilates services here.
Our Whole-Body Approach
At Kaylana Wellness Collective, we focus on caring for the whole person—not just your spine. We consider your nervous system, breath, lifestyle factors such as school or work, and personal goals to create a program that’s tailored specifically to you.
Our goal is to help you feel stronger, more balanced, and supported in your movement—no matter where you are in your scoliosis journey.
What Next?
If you’re looking for scoliosis-informed Physiotherapy and Pilates service offerings, we’d love to welcome you to our Hurstville physiotherapy clinic. Whether you’re newly diagnosed or managing scoliosis, we’ll start with a thorough one-on-one assessment and tailor a plan to support your spine, movement, and goals. You can book your assessment online.
We can’t wait to welcome you!
References:
Kuru T, Yeldan I, Dereli EE, et al. (2020). The efficacy of Pilates-based exercises in adolescent idiopathic scoliosis: A randomised controlled trial. Physiotherapy Theory and Practice.