Written in response to the many requests for a practical and accessible guide to exercise for scoliosis sufferers, Curves, Twists and Bends combines the insights of Annette Wellings, who has major scoliosis, with Alan Herdman, the UK's leading Pilates practitioner.This clear and concise book explains in accessible terms what scoliosis is, its symptoms, and its physical and psychological aspects. It includes a series of Pilates exercises, specially-designed by the authors to promote flexibility, posture and muscle strength in scoliosis sufferers as well as information on what exercises to avoid. It also offers basic strategies and practical tips for living with the condition, including useful advice on diet, rest, sitting, carrying and how to dress. Written with the full range of scoliosis sufferers in mind, Pilates for Scoliosis highlights the importance of gentle exercise for keeping the body as healthy and flexible as possible.Curves, Twists and Bends: A Practical Guide to Pilates for Scoliosis will be indispensible to individuals with scoliosis and their families as well as to physical therapists, Pilates instructors and other professionals who advise scoliosis patients on exercise and lifestyle options.
Introduction. Part 1. Understanding and Awareness. 1.1 What is Scoliosis? Structural and Non-Structural Scoliosis. Symptoms. Idiopathic Scoliosis. Causes. 1.2. Wide Variation of Types. Location of the Curve. Shape of the Curve. Degree of the Curve. Vertebral Rotation. Rib Hump. Kyphosis, Lordosis, Flat Back. 1.3. Four Common Patterns of Curvature. 1.4. The Psychology of Scoliosis. Coping Mechanisms. 1.5. Mind and Body Link. The Bossy Muscle. The Spine Bends Under Physical and Psychological Pressure. Part 2. Exercises for Flexibility and Posture. 2.1. Introduction. 2.2. Principles of Exercise for Scoliosis. 2.3. Posture and Alignment. 2.4. Exercises. Preparation. The Basic Top Ten Exercises. Stretches. De-Rotation. Lengthening. Letting Go of Bossy Muscle. Teaching the Weak Side to Talk. Pelvic Stability. 2.5. Index of Exercises. 2.6. What Exercises to Avoid. 2.7. Possible Goals and Outcomes. 2.8. More About Pilates.
The book is a useful tool for addressing scoliosis through exercise, both for those who have the condition and for Pilates instructors with scoliotic clients... Wellings and Herdman have assembled a set of 34 exercises primarily focused on stretching and lengthening, that are appropriate for people with symptoms ranging from mild to severe scoliosis, and even for the general population.
