If your child has scoliosis, or if you’re managing it as an adult, you may wonder whether it’s safe to stay active or participate in sports. The good news is that in most cases, scoliosis does not have to limit physical activity. In fact, exercise plays a crucial role in maintaining spinal strength, improving posture, enhancing mobility, and boosting overall confidence.

Understanding how scoliosis affects the body can help you choose activities that support spinal health while avoiding unnecessary strain on the spine. Let’s take a look at the impact of scoliosis, which sports are generally safe, and when to reach out to a spine specialist.

How Scoliosis Affects Movement and Flexibility

Scoliosis causes the spine to curve sideways, sometimes with a slight rotation. Depending on the degree of curvature and the age of the patient, the condition can affect:

• Flexibility (especially in the lower back)
• Core strength and balance
• Range of motion
• Breathing capacity in cases of more pronounced thoracic curves

However, for most children and adults with mild to moderate scoliosis, these changes do not prevent them from participating safely in sports. Many athletes, even at high levels, have scoliosis and continue to perform well with proper monitoring and support.

Is It Safe to Play Sports With Scoliosis?

For most people, the answer is yes. Staying active can actually improve spinal health by strengthening the muscles that support the spine, enhancing posture, and maintaining mobility. Physical activity is not known to worsen scoliosis, and in many cases, it helps individuals feel more comfortable and confident in their movement.

Benefits of exercise for scoliosis include:

• Improved core strength
• Better balance and coordination
• Reduced back discomfort
• Stronger muscles supporting spinal stability
• Healthier posture and body mechanics

Most individuals with scoliosis are encouraged to remain active unless their spine specialist advises otherwise.

Sports That Are Generally Recommended

Many activities are safe and even beneficial for spinal health:

1. Low-Impact Aerobic Exercise
   Walking, swimming, and cycling help improve endurance without putting excess pressure on the spine. Swimming is especially helpful because the water supports the body and allows for freer, low-strain movement.
2. Strength Training
   Light to moderate strength training — especially exercises that target core stabilization — can help strengthen the muscles that support the spine. Proper form and supervision are important for avoiding unnecessary strain.
3. Pilates and Yoga (With Modifications)
   These practices improve core strength, flexibility, and posture. Some poses, especially those involving deep backbends or sharp twists, may need modification depending on the individual’s curve.
4. Non-Contact Sports
   Running, dance, tennis, and volleyball are often safe when practiced with good technique and overall body awareness. Cross-training can help balance out any asymmetric movements.

Sports You Should Approach With Caution

Some activities place higher stress on the spine or involve repetitive asymmetrical movements. These are not necessarily off-limits, but they may require guidance from a specialist:

1. High-Impact or Collision Sports
   Football, wrestling, and certain forms of gymnastics can increase the risk of injury due to sudden impact, falls, or extreme body positions. Participation may depend on curve severity, pain levels, and a specialist’s guidance.
2. Heavy Weightlifting
   This refers especially to lifts that load the spine significantly (such as squats, deadlifts, and overhead presses). These may be possible with modifications or supervision, but they shouldn’t be started without professional guidance.
3. Sports with Uneven Loading
   Golf, softball, and throwing sports can create uneven forces on the spine because of repeated one-sided motions. These activities are still common choices for people with scoliosis, but they may require targeted strengthening to keep the body balanced.
4. Activities with Deep Backbends or Extreme Twisting
   Competitive cheerleading, some dance movements, and advanced yoga poses can place strain on the spine. Modifying these movements often allows safe participation.

Remember: Every scoliosis curve is unique. What’s completely safe for one person may require modification for another, so make sure you get specialized guidance that is specific to you.

How a Spine Specialist Can Help

A scoliosis specialist can evaluate the type, severity, growth patterns, and overall spinal health to create a personalized activity plan. This may include:

• Monitoring curve progression
• Recommending safe movement patterns
• Providing exercises that strengthen the spine
• Advising which sports to prioritize or modify
• Offering bracing guidance if needed

If pain increases during activity or performance becomes difficult, a specialist evaluation is essential.

Staying Active (With Care) Is Good for the Spine

Most people with scoliosis can safely participate in sports, and many benefit from doing so. Exercise builds strength, improves posture, and supports long-term spinal health. With the right guidance, the goal isn’t to avoid activity; it’s to stay active in a way that supports your body.

If you or your child have scoliosis and want personalized advice about sports or exercise, schedule a visit today with our spine specialists at Spine & Scoliosis Specialists in Greensboro, NC. We’re here to help you stay strong, confident, and safely active.

It’s completely normal for your spine to change as you get older. Just like your skin develops fine lines or your joints feel a little stiffer, the structures that support your back undergo natural wear and tear over time. While these changes can sometimes lead to discomfort or mobility issues, understanding why they happen — and what you can do to support your spine — can make a meaningful difference in how you feel each day.

Below, we break down the most common age-related changes in the spine along with practical steps you can take to stay strong and mobile at every stage of life.

Disc Degeneration: Losing Cushion and Height

Between each vertebra sits a soft, gel-like disc that acts like a shock absorber. Over the years, these discs naturally lose water content, making them less flexible and less effective at cushioning movement. This process, called disc degeneration, is extremely common and can lead to:

• Stiffness
• Occasional sharp or aching pain
• A feeling of being “compressed” or slightly shorter in height

Disc degeneration is a normal part of aging, but staying active and strengthening the surrounding muscles can often help reduce symptoms.

Arthritis and Joint Changes

Your spine contains small joints called facet joints that help you bend, twist, and move comfortably. With age, these joints may develop osteoarthritis as cartilage gradually wears down.

This can lead to:

• Localized back pain
• Morning stiffness
• Grinding or “catching” sensations
• Inflammation around the affected joints

Although arthritis can’t be reversed, early management and strengthening the supporting muscles can help keep your spine feeling stable and supported.

Loss of Flexibility

As the muscles and connective tissues around the spine naturally tighten with age, your back may become less flexible. You may notice:

• Difficulty bending or reaching
• Tightness after long periods of sitting
• A decrease in overall range of motion

The good news? Flexibility responds very well to consistent stretching, mobility work, and low-impact movement.

Posture Changes

Many people experience posture changes over time. Years of sitting, muscle imbalances, weakened core support, or poor ergonomics can contribute to:

• A forward-leaning or “stooped” posture
• Rounded shoulders
• Increased strain in the neck or lower back

These shifts may place added stress on the spine and, over time, contribute to pain or nerve irritation.

Muscle and Ligament Changes

Aging affects the soft tissues around your spine, too. Back muscles may weaken, especially if you’ve spent years sitting for work or avoiding strenuous activity. Ligaments can also thicken and lose elasticity, contributing to stiffness and reduced mobility. Together, these changes can make the spine feel less stable or flexible.

Bone Density Loss and Compression Fractures

As bone density naturally declines with age, the vertebrae can become more fragile. This increases the risk of compression fractures, especially in individuals with osteoporosis. These tiny fractures can cause sudden back pain and a noticeable decrease in height or change in posture.

Maintaining strong bones through nutrition, weight-bearing exercise, and preventive care is an important part of protecting your spine.

Spinal Stenosis

One of the most common age-related spine conditions is spinal stenosis, which occurs when the spaces within the spine narrow. This often results from a combination of disc degeneration, joint arthritis, and thickening of spinal ligaments.

When narrowing places pressure on the spinal nerves, you may experience:

• Numbness or tingling in the legs
• Weakness
• Pain that worsens when standing or walking but improves when sitting or leaning forward

Stenosis is common and manageable, especially with early evaluation and targeted treatment.

How These Changes Can Affect Daily Life

Age-related changes in the spine may lead to:

• Persistent or intermittent back pain
• Reduced mobility
• Muscle stiffness
• Difficulty walking long distances
• Tingling or numbness caused by nerve irritation
• Increased risk of flare-ups or minor injuries

But aging doesn’t mean living with constant discomfort. Many people maintain strong, healthy spines well into later adulthood by taking a proactive approach.

How to Keep Your Spine Healthy as You Age

You can support your spine with simple, consistent habits:

1. Stay Active

Movement nourishes the spine. Activities like walking, swimming, yoga, or light strength training increase circulation around your discs and joints, helping reduce stiffness and maintain mobility. Even 10-15 minutes of low-impact activity per day can make a meaningful difference.

2. Practice Good Posture

Good posture reduces excess strain on the spine. Keep screens at eye level, relax your shoulders down and back, and distribute your weight evenly whether sitting or standing. Small adjustments throughout the day can help prevent long-term discomfort.

3. Stretch Regularly

Gentle stretching counteracts the natural tightening of muscles and ligaments. Moves like knee-to-chest stretches, seated twists, and cat-cow poses help maintain flexibility and reduce morning or evening stiffness.

4. Strengthen Your Core

A strong core acts like scaffolding for your spine. When your core muscles weaken, your back works harder to support you. Exercises like planks, gentle Pilates, or physical therapy-guided movements can improve stability and reduce strain.

5. Maintain a Healthy Weight

Carrying extra weight, especially around the midsection, places increased pressure on the lower spine. A balanced diet and regular movement help reduce that load and ease stress on the joints and discs.

6. Prioritize Ergonomics

Supportive chairs, an ergonomic workspace, proper lifting techniques, and taking breaks from prolonged sitting all help protect your spine throughout the day.

7. Stay Hydrated and Choose Supportive Sleep Positions

Hydration keeps the body’s tissues supple, including spinal discs. And sleeping with your spine supported (such as on your back with a pillow under your knees or on your side with a pillow between your legs) can reduce overnight strain.

8. Seek Preventive Care

Don’t wait for pain to worsen before consulting a professional. Regular check-ins with a spine specialist, physical therapist visits, massage therapy, and ergonomic assessments can help you identify potential issues early and maintain healthy movement patterns.

When to See a Spine Specialist

Although age-related changes are common, you should seek medical evaluation if you experience:

• Persistent pain lasting more than a few weeks
• Numbness, tingling, or weakness in the legs
• Pain that worsens with activity or affects daily function
• Sudden severe pain after a fall or injury

A specialist can help determine the cause of your symptoms and recommend the most effective treatment options.

Spinal Health at Every Age

Aging may change your spine, but it doesn’t have to limit your life. Understanding what’s happening inside your body — and taking small, consistent steps to support it — can help you stay mobile, strong, and comfortable for years. With healthy habits, preventive care, and a proactive mindset, you can maintain spinal health at every stage of life. If you’d like to schedule a consultation about keeping your spine healthy as you get older, contact Spine & Scoliosis Specialists in Greensboro, NC today.

Most people connect dizziness to inner ear problems, low blood pressure, or dehydration—but rarely to the spine. However, issues in the cervical spine (the portion of the spine located in the neck) can disrupt the body’s balance system and contribute to episodes of dizziness, unsteadiness, or a sensation of spinning.

If you’ve been feeling “off-balance” and haven’t found answers, understanding the role of the cervical spine may help point you toward relief.

How the Cervical Spine Helps You Maintain Balance

The cervical spine is more than a supportive structure. It contains:

• Nerves that send information to the brain about body position
• Muscles that help stabilize your head and neck
• Joints and ligaments that coordinate movement

These structures communicate constantly with your eyes and inner ear, allowing your brain to interpret motion and orientation. When something disrupts that communication, the brain may receive conflicting signals. That’s what can lead to dizziness or imbalance.

Common causes include:

• Arthritis or spinal degeneration
• Herniated discs
• Whiplash or other neck trauma
• Muscle tension and inflammation
• Poor posture (especially from prolonged device use)
• Nerve compression

This type of imbalance-related dizziness is often referred to as cervicogenic dizziness or cervical vertigo.

Common Symptoms of Cervicogenic Dizziness

Symptoms can vary from person to person, but may include:

• Dizziness or unsteadiness triggered by neck movement
• Neck pain or stiffness accompanied by dizzy spells
• Limited range of motion in the neck
• Headaches at the base of the skull
• Difficulty focusing or blurred vision
• Nausea, especially after quick head turns or looking up

Symptoms may come and go, or they may worsen after prolonged sitting, driving, or screen time.

Diagnostic Tests for Cervicogenic Dizziness

Cervicogenic dizziness can be challenging to identify because its symptoms overlap with those of vestibular (inner ear), neurological, and cardiovascular conditions. No single test can confirm it. Because of this, many patients see multiple providers before discovering the cervical spine as the source of their imbalance.

A spine specialist or neurologist will perform a comprehensive evaluation to rule out other causes. Testing may include:

Physical Examination

Assessment of:

• Posture
• Neck mobility
• Muscle tightness and tenderness
• Gait and balance

Imaging Studies

Such as:

• X-rays
• MRI
• CT scans

These help identify inflammation, degeneration, disc herniation, or nerve compression.

Balance and Vestibular Testing

Specialized testing may evaluate how the brain responds to:

• Motion
• Visual cues
• Changes in head position

Once other conditions are ruled out, and symptoms correlate with neck-related issues, cervicogenic dizziness can be diagnosed with more confidence.

Treatment Options for Spine-Related Dizziness

The encouraging news: Most patients improve significantly once the underlying cervical issue is treated. Your spine specialist may recommend a customized combination of therapies, such as:

Physical Therapy

Designed to:

• Improve posture
• Increase neck mobility
• Strengthen stabilizing muscles

This can correct faulty movement patterns contributing to dizziness.

Manual Therapy or Chiropractic Care

Gentle, controlled techniques may relieve joint dysfunction and reduce nerve irritation.

Medications

Short-term use may help manage:

• Inflammation
• Muscle spasms
• Related pain

Vestibular Rehabilitation

Specialized exercises retrain how your brain interprets balance signals and can reduce dizziness.

Lifestyle Modifications

Your care plan may include:

• Ergonomic adjustments at work
• Stretching routines
• Stress-reduction techniques
• Sleep position recommendations

Minimally Invasive Procedures

In cases involving significant disc herniation or spinal compression, targeted injections or minimally invasive surgery may be discussed.

When to See a Spine Specialist

Consider seeing a spine specialist if you experience:

• Persistent dizziness or imbalance
• Neck pain that accompanies dizzy spells
• Difficulty focusing your eyes
• Headaches at the base of the skull
• Worsening symptoms with head or neck movement

Left untreated, underlying neck conditions may progress, increasing discomfort and instability over time.

Cervicogenic Dizziness: The Bottom Line

While dizziness is often linked to inner ear or neurological issues, the cervical spine can also be an overlooked contributor. But, with the right diagnosis and treatment plan, most patients experience meaningful improvement in balance, comfort, and quality of life.

If dizziness is affecting your daily activities, sleep, or confidence, schedule a consultation today with our spine specialists at Spine & Scoliosis Specialists in Greensboro, NC. Identifying the true source of your symptoms is the first step toward restoring balance and peace of mind.

Scoliosis may typically be considered a spinal condition, but it can affect much more than your posture or alignment. An abnormal curve in the spine can place stress on muscles, joints, and even internal organs.

For some people, this means occasional discomfort or cosmetic concerns; for others with more severe curvature, scoliosis can influence breathing, digestion, heart function, and overall quality of life. Understanding these potential effects can help you know when it’s time to seek medical care to address health issues related to scoliosis.

Key Facts About Scoliosis

• An estimated 6–9 million people in the United States live with scoliosis.
• Most cases develop during adolescence, though it can occur in adults as well.
• Scoliosis may appear as a C- or S-shaped curve in the spine.
• The condition is more common in females and often progresses if left untreated.
• Treatment ranges from monitoring and wearing a brace to surgery in severe cases.

How Scoliosis Affects More Than the Spine

Breathing Difficulties

When scoliosis becomes severe, the curvature can reduce lung capacity and make it harder to take deep, full breaths. This happens because the ribcage may be restricted, leaving less room for the lungs to expand. In rare, extreme cases, scoliosis can contribute to chronic breathing problems.

Muscle Imbalance

Uneven spinal curves place extra strain on muscles on one side of the body while underusing those on the opposite side. Over time, this imbalance can cause stiffness, weakness, or chronic discomfort. It may also affect posture and limit flexibility.

Digestive Concerns

A significant spinal curve can compress the stomach or intestines, leading to symptoms such as reflux, bloating, constipation, or early satiety (feeling full quickly). While this is uncommon in mild scoliosis, it may occur in advanced cases.

Heart Function

Severe scoliosis can also affect the heart. Compression in the chest cavity may reduce blood flow or place stress on the heart muscle, sometimes resulting in irregular heartbeat or decreased stamina.

Nervous System Effects

If scoliosis involves misalignment in the upper spine, it can contribute to nerve irritation or pain radiating into other parts of the body. Rarely, very severe cases may affect neurological function.

Mental Health and Well-Being

Chronic pain, physical limitations, or visible changes in posture can take an emotional toll. Children and teens with scoliosis may struggle with self-esteem, while adults may experience anxiety or depression related to ongoing symptoms. Addressing both the physical and emotional impacts is an important part of treatment.

Seeking Care for Other Effects of Scoliosis

Not every case of scoliosis leads to complications, but it’s important to see a spine specialist if you or your child experience:

• Noticeable changes in posture or uneven shoulders/hips
• Persistent or worsening back pain
• Shortness of breath during activity
• Digestive issues that don’t improve with diet or lifestyle changes
• Numbness, tingling, or weakness in the arms or legs
• Emotional distress related to scoliosis symptoms or appearance

Early evaluation and treatment can prevent progression and reduce the risk of further issues.

Scoliosis and Your Long-Term Health

Most people with scoliosis live healthy, active lives. But because the condition can affect more than just the spine, paying attention to symptoms — and seeking timely medical care — makes a difference.

If you suspect scoliosis or are noticing new symptoms, contact Spine & Scoliosis Specialists in Greensboro, NC. Our spine specialists can provide an accurate diagnosis, recommend the right treatment, and help protect your long-term health and well-being.

Spinal fusion is a surgical procedure designed to stabilize the spine and relieve pain caused by damaged discs, pinched nerves, or other spinal conditions. By permanently joining two or more vertebrae, spinal fusion reduces movement in painful areas and restores stability. While it’s usually considered only after other treatments have been ineffective, spinal fusion can be a safe and effective option for many patients.

If you’re preparing for surgery, here are answers to some of the most common questions about spinal fusion recovery — including what to expect during healing, how long recovery may take, and tips for managing daily activities safely.

What Happens During Spinal Fusion Surgery?

During spinal fusion, your surgeon removes the damaged disc or bone and places bone graft material between the vertebrae. Over time, the graft stimulates new bone growth, causing the vertebrae to fuse into a single, solid segment. Metal plates, screws, or rods may also be used to keep the spine stable as healing occurs.

Spinal fusion can be performed using a traditional open approach or minimally invasive techniques. Minimally invasive methods often mean smaller incisions, less pain, and faster recovery.

How Long Does Spinal Fusion Recovery Take?

Recovery is gradual and varies by patient. In general:

• First weeks: Rest and limited activity; you may need to wear a brace for support.
• 6–12 weeks: Start physical therapy to rebuild strength and flexibility.
• 3+ months: Pain improves, and mobility begins to return.
• 4–6 weeks: Some patients can return to light or sedentary jobs.
• 6–12 months: Most people resume normal daily activities, including bending and twisting.

Your recovery may take longer if you have risk factors such as smoking, obesity, osteoporosis, or diabetes.

Will I Be Able to Walk After Surgery?

Yes. Most patients are encouraged to walk shortly after surgery, often with assistance at first. Walking helps circulation, prevents stiffness, and supports healing. However, you’ll need to gradually increase distance and avoid overexertion.

When Can I Drive Again?

Driving is usually restricted until you’re no longer taking prescription pain medication and can move comfortably enough to react quickly. This may take several weeks, depending on your healing progress. For your safety, always check with your surgeon before getting back behind the wheel.

How Soon Can I Return to Work?

• Sedentary jobs: Many patients return within 4–6 weeks.
• Physically demanding jobs: Recovery may take several months before it’s safe to resume.

Your doctor will guide you based on the type of work you do and your individual progress.

How to Treat Pain After Surgery

Some discomfort at the surgical site is expected. Pain management may include:

• Prescribed medications
• Ice or heat therapy
• Using supportive pillows for comfort while resting
• Gentle movement as recommended by your care team

Over time, most patients notice significant pain improvement compared with how they felt before surgery.

What Can I Do to Support My Recovery?

• Follow instructions carefully: Take medications as prescribed, and follow lifting and movement restrictions.
• Don’t smoke: Smoking slows bone healing and increases the risk of complications.
• Eat a nutritious diet: Foods rich in calcium, protein, and vitamin D help support bone growth.
• Stay active but safe: Walking and physical therapy will be important steps toward regaining mobility.
• Go to follow-up visits: These appointments help your doctor monitor healing and adjust your care plan.

Spinal Fusion Recovery: The Bottom Line

Spinal fusion is a major procedure, but with proper care and support, most patients experience lasting pain relief and a return to normal activities. Knowing what to expect — and following your recovery plan closely — can help you heal with confidence.

If back or neck pain has not improved with other treatments, contact Spine & Scoliosis Specialists in Greensboro, NC to discuss whether spinal fusion surgery is right for you and what your recovery could look like.