Massage and Me: Living With Scoliosis

I’ve been having massages on and off for over 15 years. I was born with Kyphoscoliosis and never had surgery to correct it so I have no metal work. This was because of all the other medical conditions I have.

For me, massage is one of the few alternative treatments that genuinely helps with scoliosis—alongside hydrotherapy (and mainstream swimming, if you can cope with cold water!). I started because I thought it might benefit my severe scoliosis. But it’s also supported my mental and general wellbeing.

In the beginning, I had two to three sessions over a two-week period so the therapist could work on releasing the muscles. After that, I settled into a monthly routine.

Unlike many people with scoliosis, I don’t experience daily pain—not the kind that requires regular painkillers. For me, massage isn’t about curing anything. It’s about maintaining flexibility and mobility.

Hydrotherm Massage: Candles, Whale Music, and Warm Water

The first massages I had were very relaxing—candles, whale music, the works. I was having what’s called Hydrotherm massage, which involves lying on a warm water mattress. This was ideal because I can’t lie flat on my back due to the severity of my spinal curvature. It was therapeutic, gentle, and restorative.

Taking the Plunge into Sports Massage

Last year, Able2B—where I go for gym sessions—started offering sports massage. Earlier this year, I decided to give it a go.

Let’s just say: it’s not candles and whale music.

There was a lot of poking, prodding, and stretching. I wouldn’t call it relaxing, but it was refreshingly good. I hadn’t had a massage in a long time, so I expected to be aching the next day—but surprisingly, I wasn’t.

What Is Sports Massage, Really?

Forget the spa vibes. Sports massage is a focused, therapeutic approach to soft tissue work. It’s designed to:

• Target specific muscle groups

• Release chronic tension

• Improve circulation and mobility

• Support recovery from physical strain or repetitive stress

It’s not about pampering—it’s about precision.

Why It Matters for Scoliosis

Scoliosis creates asymmetry. One side of the body may be overworked, the other underused. This imbalance can lead to:

• Muscle fatigue and tightness

• Reduced range of motion

• Pain that radiates beyond the spine

Massage helps by releasing tension, improving mobility, and supporting overall wellbeing. It’s not a cure—but it’s a form of maintenance.

When I’ve suggested massage to others with scoliosis or similar conditions, some have stopped after one session because they found it painful. My advice? If you can bear the first few sessions, it gets easier—and the benefits become clearer. You’ll feel the difference in your body, your movement, and even your mood.

Final Thoughts

Massage—whether soft tissue or sports—isn’t about fixing scoliosis. It’s about working with your body, not against it. For me, it’s been a way to stay mobile, feel cared for, and support my wellbeing. And sometimes, that’s more than enough.

If you are considering massage, soft tissue or sports massage, speak to your GP, Consultant or health professional before starting.

Image Description: It shows a person lying on their side on a padded therapy table, covered with a green blanket, while a therapist applies pressure to their upper back or shoulder. The setting looks like a clinical treatment room, with an anatomical poster of leg muscles on the wall and natural light coming through a window.

Resources

https://www.able2b.co.uk/copy-of-frame-running

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