Ep. 6: Kinesiophobia - Breaking the Fear of Movement With Scoliosis
In today's episode, Dr. Laura and Dr. Beth dive into a topic that affects many people living with scoliosis—kinesiophobia, or the excessive fear of movement. This fear often stems from past pain, well-intentioned but inaccurate advice, or long-held beliefs about what people with scoliosis “should” or “shouldn’t” do.
Laura and Beth unpack how kinesiophobia develops, why it’s especially common among adults with scoliosis, and how misinformation or overly cautious guidance can unintentionally shrink someone’s world over time. They discuss how avoiding movement can lead to deconditioning, increased sensitivity, and a frustrating cycle that reinforces fear and pain.
They share practical strategies for breaking out of that cycle, including:
Mindset shifts to retrain the brain’s overprotective patterns
Graded exposure—starting with gentle, supported movements and gradually building confidence
Functional activity-based approaches like walking more, taking the stairs, or increasing daily movement
Community and professional support, including group fitness, scoliosis-informed physical therapy, and even mental health counseling
Compassion, patience, and realistic timelines, recognizing that unlearning long-held fears takes steady, consistent effort
They also highlight the importance of staying active for long-term health and why strength training and movement are not just safe for people with scoliosis—they’re beneficial.
Before signing off, Beth and Laura give listeners a fun piece of “homework”: create your own scoliosis mantra to help interrupt negative self-talk and remind yourself that your spine—and you—are strong, capable, and resilient.
Listen to the episode by clicking here!
Tips to set yourself up for success:
If possible, work with a scoliosis-trained professional — but even small steps toward strength can make a big difference. Remember you can work with each of us virtually as well!
Click the image to be taken to the podcast website!
Tips to set yourself up for success:
If possible, work with a scoliosis-trained professional — but even small steps toward strength can make a big difference. Remember you can work with each of us virtually as well!
Finally, don't forget to subscribe to ScoliPod on your favorite pod catcher so you never miss an episode!
