Scoliosis, a sideways curvature of the spine, can influence an individual’s walking. The impact varies based on the curve’s severity and location, often leading to noticeable alterations in gait.
How Scoliosis Changes Walking Patterns
The spinal curve in scoliosis can lead to an asymmetrical posture, where one shoulder may appear higher than the other, or the hips and rib cage may be uneven. This unevenness affects the body’s overall alignment during walking, as the spine’s abnormal bending disrupts its typical supportive function. The body attempts to compensate for this imbalance, which can alter the distribution of weight and forces through the muscles and bones.
A shift in the body’s center of gravity often accompanies the spinal curve, which can compromise stability and balance while walking. This altered center of gravity makes it challenging to maintain equilibrium during the stance phase of walking. Consequently, individuals may exhibit an unsteady gait as their body works to prevent falls and maintain upright posture.
Specific changes in walking patterns, or gait deviations, are common, such as a shortened stride on one side or an altered foot placement. The body’s natural counter-rotating motion, which involves the hips and shoulders during walking, can also be reduced. These adjustments are often involuntary attempts to compensate for the spinal curvature and maintain forward progression.
A severe pelvic tilt caused by scoliosis can create a functional leg length discrepancy, even if the legs are anatomically the same length. This perceived difference in leg length directly impacts the gait, as the body adapts to the unevenness by altering stride length and movement in the hips, knees, and ankles. Muscles on one side of the spine or trunk may become weaker or tighter due to the prolonged spinal imbalance. This muscle imbalance directly affects the mechanics of walking, making movements less smooth and potentially increasing the energy expended during ambulation.
Other Ways Scoliosis Impacts Walking
Back pain is a common symptom of scoliosis, ranging from general discomfort to sharp muscle spasms or nerve pain. This pain can make walking uncomfortable or difficult, significantly limiting a person’s willingness to engage in physical activity and reducing their endurance. The body expends more energy to maintain balance and move with an altered posture, leading to quicker fatigue and reduced stamina during walking.
In severe cases, the spinal curvature can compress the lungs, leading to breathing difficulties and shortness of breath. This respiratory compromise can limit walking capacity, especially during exertion, as the body struggles to get enough oxygen. Prolonged muscle imbalance can also lead to overall weakness in the core and lower body. This general muscle weakness makes sustained walking challenging and can contribute to feelings of instability and reduced mobility.
Strategies to Improve Walking
Physical therapy and targeted exercises can significantly improve walking ability for individuals with scoliosis. Specific exercises strengthen core muscles, which are important for spinal support, and improve flexibility to reduce stiffness. These interventions also aim to enhance balance and correct posture, optimizing the mechanics of walking and promoting smoother movements.
Bracing, particularly in adolescents, can play a role in managing scoliosis and indirectly supporting better walking posture. A rigid brace can halt the progression of the spinal curvature while the body is still growing, helping to maintain spinal alignment. Pain management methods, such as medication or heat/cold therapy, can alleviate discomfort that hinders walking. Addressing pain allows individuals to participate more fully in physical activities and rehabilitation efforts.
Assistive devices, such as orthotics, may be used to address functional leg length discrepancies. These devices can help to even out the perceived leg length difference, leading to a more balanced and comfortable gait. In severe cases, surgical intervention may be considered to correct the spinal curve. This can lead to significant improvements in posture, balance, and overall walking ability by realigning the spine.