Abstract

Background. Rational correction of scoliosis should be characterised by a detailed analysis of every patient and individualized selection of initial, corrected, hypercorrected and isolated positions, involving all three planes. The concept of asymmetric exercises with asymmetric elongation as a significant added element in the treatment of scoliosis meets all these conditions. Popularisation of long-term experiences in the correction of scoliosis with asymmetric exercises supplemented with asymmetric elongation was the aim of this study.Material and methods. A new and unique set of asymmetric elongation exercises combined with the concept of asymmetric exercises allows for successful correction of advanced scoliosis. The basis for analysis and conclusions is long-term follow-up of children (7-18 years of age) participating in corrective exercise classes in the School Centre for Corrective and Compensatory Gymnastics in Bielsko-Biala.Results. The successful correction and stabilization of 30°-60° (Cobb) scolioses that has been achieved during the last two years indicate that the system of asymmetric exercises supplemented by asymmetric elongation is effective, examples including Marta, 13, with correction from 40° to 25° over one year; and Laura, 14, from 50° and 60° to 45° and 50°, respectively, over six months.Conclusions. Clinical and radiological evidence confirms the effectiveness of asymmetric exercises supplemented by asymmetric elongation in the correction of scoliosis. This tried-and-tested system should therefore be popularised through educational curricula for teachers and physiotherapists.

Key words:

scoliosis, asymmetric exercises, asymmetric elongation