Condition Postural Dysfunction

Scoliosis (Functional)

Lateral curvature of the spine driven by muscle imbalance, leg length discrepancy, or habitual asymmetric loading rather than structural vertebral changes. Assessment targets trunk symmetry, rib cage position, pelvic alignment, and bilateral ROM comparison.

Clinical note: Distinguish structural from functional scoliosis with Adam's forward bend test. Structural curves require specialist management. Functional curves respond to corrective exercise targeting muscle imbalance.
6
ROM Tests
4
Corrective Priorities
4
Risk Factors
3
Red Flags

Key ROM Tests

1 Lower Trunk Rotation
2 Thoracic Extension
3 Thoracic Rotation Seated
4 Hip Internal Rotation
5 Hip Abduction
6 Pelvic Tilt Classification

Risk Factors Assessed

Lower Trunk Rotation
Thoracic Rotation Seated
Hip Internal Rotation
Pelvic Tilt Classification

Expected Timeline

12-24 weeks for functional improvement, ongoing management for structural component

Frequently Asked Questions

Can scoliosis (functional) be corrected with exercise?
Typical improvement timeline is 12-24 weeks for functional improvement, ongoing management for structural component. The protocol includes 4 prioritized corrective interventions and screens for red flags that require medical referral.
What assessments are done for scoliosis (functional)?
The protocol assesses Lower Trunk Rotation, Thoracic Extension, Thoracic Rotation Seated, Hip Internal Rotation. Each test identifies the specific driver of the condition, guiding the corrective sequence.
Is scoliosis (functional) the same for everyone?
No. The assessment differentiates structural from functional causes and identifies the individual's primary driver. The corrective plan is ordered by priority, with the highest-leverage corrections addressed first.
How do I get started with the Scoliosis (Functional) protocol?
Apply for an assessment through AKMI. Your coach will run the Scoliosis (Functional) protocol as part of your initial structural evaluation, then build a personalized corrective plan based on the findings.

Get your Scoliosis (Functional) assessment

Your coach runs this protocol as part of your structural evaluation, then builds a personalized corrective plan based on the data.

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Protocol Details

Category
Condition
Subcategory
Postural Dysfunction
ROM Tests
6
Corrective Targets
4
Benchmarked
Screening-based
Red Flag Screens
3
Timeline
12-24 weeks for functional improvement, ongoing management for structural component
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Related Condition Protocols

Lateral Hip Pain (Trochanteric)

Pain over the greater trochanter, commonly gluteal tendinopathy or trochanteric bursitis. Assessment targets hip abductor strength, ITB tension, pelvic stability, and compressive loading positions.

 Sacroiliac Joint Dysfunction

Pain arising from the sacroiliac joint, often presenting as unilateral low back and buttock pain. Assessment targets SIJ provocation tests, pelvic symmetry, hip mobility, and lumbar contribution.

 Winged / Protracted Scapulae

Scapular winging (medial border lifts off thorax) or protraction (scapulae sit far from midline). Driven by serratus anterior weakness, lower trap inhibition, pec minor shortening, and thoracic mobility restriction.

 High Arches (Pes Cavus)

Excessively rigid high arch with reduced shock absorption. Associated with lateral ankle instability, metatarsal stress, and supinated gait pattern. May indicate neurological conditions if progressive.

 Anterior Pelvic Tilt

Excessive anterior rotation of the pelvis increasing lumbar lordosis. Driven by hip flexor shortening, weak glutes, altered breathing patterns, and rib cage position dysfunction. Common in sedentary populations and lifters who skip glute activation work.

 Genu Varum (Bow Legs)

Lateral bowing of the lower extremity with increased lateral compartment loading. Driven by ITB tension, hip adductor weakness, ankle inversion dominance, and lateral chain tightness. Can be structural (tibial varum) or functional (muscle imbalance).