A few questions about scoliosis

[peter]

Hi, I'm a 20 year old male and I was diagnosed with scoliosis 4 years ago when I was 16. I'm 20 years old now. In my opinion it doesn't really affect me that much, except the chronic neck discomfort. Sometimes I forget that I have scoliosis, so it's not really all that bad.

Since visiting a chiropractor 4 years ago, I haven't had many exercises that help my spine. The only exercises I've had included jogging. I've started my spine exercises today though. Can spine exercises and jogging help my scoliosis?

The main thing I worry about is if it can get worse. In my situation, is it possible the curve could increase? I'm fairly certain I've stopped growing and I've never worn braces or considered surgery.. and also, could my discomfort turn into pain when I get older?

Also, I wonder if studying while lying down on my stomach is a good or bad idea. Sometimes I tend to slouch while sitting, so I thought maybe it might be better to study while lying down on my stomach.

Here are my old results from my radiology report:

Cervical Spine
There is a scoliosis in both directions. The neural foramina and disc spaces appear normal. No other abnormality is shown.

Dorsal Spine
There is a scoliosis concave to the right. No other bony, joint or soft tissue lesion is shown

Lumbar Spine
There is a scoliosis concave to the left with an increased dorso-lumbar kyphosis. No other bony, joint or soft tissue lesion is shown.

Thank you for your time.

[Dr Scoliosis]

Peter

Unfortunately the radiology report you provided does not give sufficient information. The radiological diagnosis of "scoliosis" is permissible only when there is a curve of 10° or more as measured by the Cobb method together with vertebral rotation. This matter is discussed on our website.

To set your mind at rest, ask your family doctor to refer you to a spinal specialist. A relevant, Australia-wide directory of specialists who work in this field is also on our website.

Until your curve has been properly assessed it would be unwise to comment upon the role of exercises and jogging in the management of your problem.

We trust these comments are helpful.