Equipment
Equipment
Dr. Tamryn’s recommendations are meant to provide an alternative, and perhaps less expensive, source for the various equipment that is sometimes needed during scoliosis treatment. Very importantly, please only purchase equipment your Scoliosis-Trained Physical Therapist feels you need and use it in the way s/he instructs.
Note that Dr. Tamryn does not endorse any specific vender nor does she receive any proceeds from the purchase of any of the equipment. Please use your own judgment in choosing the particular seller of the recommended product.
Shriner’s SpineScreen App - A free iPhone or Android app that lets you use your smart phone to screen for scoliosis. Shriner’s Hospital provides a tutorial for the app.
Over-the-Door Chin-up Bar - This bar can be used at home for various “Elongation” exercises without nails or screws. It will work in your doorway if you have small moldings. Protect the vertical molding from black marks by using painters tape where the bar touches the molding. There are many sellers of this type of bar on Amazon so look around for price and satisfaction.
Extra Thick High-Density Yoga Mat - A number of the PSSE (physiotherapy scoliosis specific exercises) are performed on the floor. This yoga mat is thicker and the cushioning this provides is often appreciated by those with scoliosis.
IKEA Birch Plywood Stool - Some of the PSSE are performed while sitting on an unpadded stool. This one has a nice flat, sturdy seat but there are others at IKEA and other sellers that would work just as well.
HappySew.com - Made to order Schroth Equipment with Special Wedges, Belts, & Straps. There is a PSSE Starter Kit per BSPTS Teacher's Request if that is appropriate for your needs or you can order only the pieces recommended by your P.T..
Full Length Mirror - Look for a light weight, inexpensive full length mirror that can be easily moved. Big box stores, like Target, often carry these.
36” Foam Roller - A foam roller is sometimes used during scoliosis treatment, most often for controlled pec stretches, but are essential in the treatment of kyphosis. There are softer models available if that is preferred.
2 Wooden Poles - Check your house to see if you have anything that works. If not, go to the hardware store to find 6 to 7 foot poles. They need to be tall enough for you to grip in standing and extend approximately 1 foot beyond the top of your head. The circumference should be comfortable to your grip. The wood should be light and the poles should not feel overly heavy to you. Dowels, curtain rods, and disembodied broom handles are all possibilities.
Gloves - Using weight lifting gloves can make “Elongation” exercises on the bar better tolerated. Amazon provides an array of gloves from which to choose.
Theraband - Yellow, Red, Green, Blue, Black - Theraband is used during a number of PSSE. Choose the color that corresponds to the strength to the resistance you need.
Kinesiotape or Rock Tape - Recommend 2” uncut tape in beige as beige does not show through clothing. Rock Tape is somewhat stickier and stays on slightly longer than the Kinesiotape if that is desired. Only use body tape IF your P.T. recommends it AND has trained you in its application.
Cupping Units - Cupping is sometimes used to treat scoliosis. IF your P.T. recommends trying cupping at home AND has trained you in its application, you might wish to consider the following (or similar) sets.
Curved Cups x 4 - Curved cups can be especially useful but have become difficult to find. Use this link to see the curved cups and then look further for suitable options.
Bungee Chair - An office chair that many people with scoliosis find especially comfortable due to its ability to accommodate and gently support the 3D curves. Choose a chair without arms when you want to use it at a desk as this fosters the proper use of the chair to support your lumbar curve in sitting. Sometimes goes on sale for a lower price. Ask your P.T. to instruct you in its proper use.
Mesh Lumbar Back Support - Inexpensive back support to support good posture on the couch, in the car, during meals, and while studying. Ask your P.T. to instruct you in its proper use. Choose your desired quantity for your needs.
Bracing
WCR Scoliosis Brace: This is a preferred brace within the U.S. Schroth community for 3D scoliosis corrections offered through The Align Clinic at several U.S. Locations.
Sforzesco Brace: The headquarters of ISICO Scientific Exercise Approach to Scoliosis (SEAS) is located in Milan, Italy. They offer the Sfozesco Brace with 3D corrections that works well with Schroth or SEAS treatment. To pursue this brace, consider the SEAS International Clinic.
Hopes Closet: Order under garments for scoliosis braces online
Scoliosis Fashion: The Align Clinic offers fashion examples to show that you don’t need to be limited in your fashion choices while wearing a brace!