Welcome to the 5th and final installment in my 5 part Functional Scoliosis (FS) series. In this blog, I will be addressing some of the frequently asked questions, that have been put to me over the past few years, regarding my FS protocol…

1. IF YOU ASK PEOPLE TO START USING THEIR LEFT HAND MUCH MORE, SURELY THEY WILL JUST END UP WITH THE SAME PROBLEM ON THE OTHER SIDE?

In my experience, this has not occurred – I have not had anyone return to me reporting that their FS had changed to the opposite side. Those that do return, tend to do so either due to a period of forced inactivity eg. illness or inability to exercise during travel or due to stopping the protocol after experiencing relief from their symptoms, DESPITE advice to continue this protocol for life – they have wanted to kickstart the protocol by going back to square one. Given that 95% of the population is right handed and we therefore live in a right handed world, everyone will be forced to use their right hand on some occasions throughout the day.

2. I’M LEFT HANDED AND I APPEAR TO HAVE A FUNCTIONAL SCOLIOSIS – HOW CAN THAT BE? DOESN’T IT ONLY OCCUR IN RIGHT HANDED PEOPLE?

My theory is, that a FS develops due to repeated turning to the left, regardless of hand dominance.

Firstly, in my experience, some people who identify as left handers reveal on further questioning, that they play tennis with their right hand, for example, which suggests they can be considered to be, in fact, ambidextrous. Secondly, as noted above, we all live in a right handed world so even a left hander will need to use their right hand occasionally (eg. when reaching or pushing, which leads to left trunk rotation) or will be forced to turn to the left (eg. due to the way that some doors are hung). Thirdly, left handers who work on 2 or more screens and position themselves centrally, will find themselves turning to the left frequently – more so if they are positioned against a wall to their right, forcing them to turn to the left to get out of the chair or possibly to converse with their colleague. Finally, perhaps their partner always sits to their left on the couch in the evenings, while watching TV. So yes : a left hander can develop the same type of FS to that of a right handed person but potentially, to a lesser degree.

3. I’VE NEVER HEARD OF A FUNCTIONAL SCOLIOSIS BEFORE AND THERE IS MINIMAL INFORMATION ON THE INTERNET. i HAVE ALSO HAVE NEVER PREVIOUSLY BEEN TOLD THAT I HAVE ONE – HOW CAN THIS BE?

If you look at the previous 4 blogs on this website, parts 1- 4 in the 5 part Functional Scoliosis series, you will find the information that you are seeking. Furthermore, in my book, Banishing Back Pain : Relief is Within Reach, you will find instructions on how to determine whether you or any family members, for example, may have one. In my experience, a functional scoliosis can vary from clearly detectable to very subtle, which means it can easily be overlooked. If you find that your symptoms improve after following my protocol, then there is your answer…

In my next blog, I will be addressing more FAQs. In the meantime, happy exercising!

Take back control.