What Are the Treatments for Chronic Back Pain Due to Mild Scoliosis?

Scoliosis is an abnormal curve of the spine, often accompanied by one leg being shorter than the other and shoulders or hips being uneven. Treatment options for the condition itself vary based on severity of the curvature and the age of the patient. However, pain is often a result of this condition, which can be treated in a number of ways, also based to some degree on the precise nature of the condition and the patient's abilities and needs.

Exercise

• Exercising in the correct manner is often one of the first things suggested for dealing with back pain caused by scoliosis. Pain is often caused by the muscles on one side of the body being tighter than the other due to the curved spine, so it is important to exercise in a way that pulls on each side of the body evenly to prevent making the situation worse. Swimming is a common recommendation.

  Another common exercise regimen is stretches with a balance ball: Lie on your stomach on the ball, with knees resting on the floor. Fall onto the ball in a relaxed position, arms raised and held forward. Hold the position for a count of five (see Reference 1).

Other

• If your daily routine requires you to spend a great deal of time sitting or driving, it's helpful to use a rolled-up towel or lumbar pillow to ease your back. It will prevent some of the strain of remaining seated for long periods.

  Be sure to use appropriate methods of lifting and stretching in daily activities to prevent back strain. Stretching upon getting up each morning to prepare your muscles for the day is also a good way to head off back pain. If you've seen a specialist for your condition, she may prescribe certain stretches each morning and evening to prevent problems.

  If all else fails, painkillers are also a good option to manage the discomfort if you've done something to strain your back. While prevention is always the best option, sometimes it can't be helped and the only option is to try to manage the pain. Heating pads can also aid in handling the discomfort.