The Spine 105able to halt or slow further progression in moderate
curves (>25°). Unfortunately, if curves are allowed
to progress to about 40° (see figure 3.30A for one
method of measurement), very drastic surgery involv-
ing spinal fusion along the length of the abnormal
curve and various forms of instrumentation to try to
stabilize the spine may be recommended (Warren
et al., 1986). So, dancers should watch for asym-
metries and seek medical evaluation if scoliosis is
suspected.
In terms of prevention, dancers should also be
careful to carry their dance bags and books in a
backpack worn over both shoulders, or if using a
single strap over one shoulder, to regularly switch
the side on which it is carried. In some cases, using a
small bag on wheels that can be pulled with alternate
arms may be a better option. Dancers should also
regularly perform exercises for trunk stabilization
and abdominal and back extensor strength that
emphasize rotation (Mooney, Gulick, and Pozos,
2000), while taking extra care to work for symmetry
in their stretching exercises, strengthening exercises,
and dance technique. If teaching dance, care must be
taken to avoid demonstrating on the same side and
to avoid consistent one-sided biases in choreography
(e.g., always turning one way).FIGURE 3.30 Scoliosis (posterior view except superior view on D). (A) Cobb method of measuring curvatures, (B) struc-
tural scoliosis with widened rib space on convex side and narrowed rib space on concave side of thoracic curvature,
(C) visible rib hump with forward bend test, (D) rotation of vertebrae and effect on thoracic cage.