What should I do about scoliosis?

If scoliosis is suspected, the first step is to visit a hospital for diagnosis and confirmation. Scoliosis treatment typically involves one of three options: observation and follow-up with exercise, bracing, or surgical intervention.

1. Exercise-based correction: For patients with mild scoliosis—particularly those with idiopathic scoliosis—muscle-strengthening exercises may help correct the curvature. Commonly recommended corrective exercises include swimming and pull-ups on a horizontal bar.

2. Bracing: The brace referred to here is a custom-fitted orthotic device designed by a certified orthotist—not a generic back-support apparatus. Patients must wear the brace for at least 20 hours per day. Except in rare cases where bracing is contraindicated, the brace should be worn continuously—including during sleep.

3. Surgical correction: If the spinal curvature is not excessively severe and the patient retains good spinal flexibility, surgery may proceed directly. However, if the curvature is very pronounced and spinal flexibility is significantly reduced, preoperative traction is usually required before surgery. Ultimately, the optimal clinical management strategy should be determined in consultation with experienced physicians at a hospital, based on the patient’s individual condition.