Ep. 7: Run, Jump, Lift - Moving Fearlessly with Scoliosis (feat. Dr. Jenn Warren)
In this empowering episode, Dr. Laura and Dr. Beth sit down with their brilliant colleague and friend Dr. Jenn Warren, a fellow scoliosis-specialized physical therapist as well as an endurance athlete who’s on a mission to dismantle one of the most damaging messages people with scoliosis still hear:
“Don’t move — it might make your curve worse.”
Dr. Jenn shares why this fear-based approach is outdated, unsupported by research, and often harmful. Through stories from her own clinical experience, she explains how movement — whether it’s walking, running, weightlifting, or simply exploring what feels good — is not only safe for people with scoliosis but profoundly beneficial for bone health, confidence, and long-term wellbeing.
Together, the trio dive into:
Why fear of movement is so common (and why it’s rarely justified)
How to help teens and adults choose activities they enjoy
The powerful role of gentle exposure, mindfulness, and graded movement
How identity, community, and sport play into recovery
What to do when a previous provider has said “never run” or “don’t lift weights”
The surprising truth about running, impact, and bone density
Why strength training becomes essential after age 30
How clinicians can help patients feel safe — not scared — in their bodies
This conversation is equal parts science, compassion, and myth-busting. If you or someone you love has scoliosis and has ever been told to “just avoid that,” this episode will give you the confidence — and the evidence — to move forward.
Follow Dr. Jenn and her content on Instagram: @drjennpt
... and in case you aren't already, make sure you're also following Dr. Beth @strengthandspine and Dr. Laura @laura.g.dpt.
Click the picture to go to the episode website!
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