I've tried yoga, pilates, and gyrotonics.
I have explored massage, acupuncture, and physiotherapy.
I learned meditation, breathing techniques, and energy medicine.
Every approach has value, but I have learned with my fussy fused spine—and the accompanying pain, stiffness, and spasms—that not everything works all the time.
Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis (AIS) is the most common form of scoliosis — ‘idiopathic’ meaning there is no known cause. There are some evolving theories that consider the role of genetics, growing patterns, hormones, neuromuscular transmitters and other factors that are leading to interesting treatment options, however, there is still no clear understanding of how to prevent curvature of the spine from developing.
Read MoreAs I become more experienced practicing and teaching Somatics, I am excited to understand that this profound system of neuromuscular reprogramming can enrich a lifetime of movement. Regardless of age, ability or experience, this technique can be accessible and helpful for living with optimal ease and mobility. Going beyond western medicine’s tendency to separate mind and body, Hanna understood that because all living somas are self-moving and self-experiencing sensory-motor systems, there is no reason for us to ever lose control of our physicality. Barring a disabling illness or accident, somas should only improve with age, rather than degenerate. In fact, his technique is revolutionary as it can teach each person how to achieve and maintain control of their physical and cognitive abilities throughout their life.
Read MoreA scoliotic curve and fusion ALWAYS affects the position of the shoulders. Not only is one shoulder usually more twisted, lower, or rolled forward than the other, but more often than not, the shoulder blades lose their ability to slide up and down over the ribs - causing stiffness, pain, and dysfunction.
Read MoreInitially, I would have described this amazingly transformative bodywork experience as “a whole lotta nothing”. The movements are simple and easy, and I could not have imagined they would have such a powerful effect on this scoliosis-riddled body (the dictionary meaning of riddled… adjective: filled with, and often thoroughly weakened by, something undesirable)…
Read MoreFollowing our 21-Day TWiSTED Transformation in November 2020, Martha Carter and TOPS associates Kathryn Kusyszyn and Sandra Razieli answered some of our participants questions about their scoliosis.
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