Dr. J Hartley interviews University of Florida Swimmer Olivia Peoples about the risk of competitive swimming increasing moderate and severe scoliosis. Up until recently many Doctors promoted swimming as a corrective exercise for Scoliosis. But, recent research shows swimmers with moderate to severe curves who swim competitively meaning several hours of intense swimming for 2-4 hours per day 3-7 days per week are at risk compared to non-swimmers at the same age and curve type. For example, if you have a 30 degrees scoliosis and swim competitively for 2-4 yours per day 3-7 days per week odds are you will progress to surgical threshold or 40 degrees more than if you were not a competitive swimmer. It is important for athletes with scoliosis to remain competitive for overall health. Although swimming is a risk factor for progression use of the CLEAR Scoliosis Method and ScoliBrace can limit progression and/or reduce the Scoliosis curve during adolescents and young adulthood. Our philosophy is to allow Scoliosis patients to do up to 4 hours per day of sport as long as they are compliant with office care, home care and ScoliBrace Rx wearing time. While away at college Olivia has been able to maximize her performance and reduce her Scoliosis.
