ScoliPod

Beth & Laura

5.0 (10)
HEALTH & FITNESS

Welcome to Scolipod, the show that’s rewriting the rules about living with a curved spine! Hosted by Dr. Laura Glazebrook and Beth Terranova —two physical therapists, scoliosis superheroes, and movement enthusiasts—this podcast brings you research-backed solutions, expert insights, and real-life stories that prove one thing: you are more than your scoliosis diagnosis.

4D AGO

11. Why You Should See a Scoliosis PT Before Spinal Fusion Surgery

If you’re planning to have scoliosis surgery, you might assume physical therapy comes after the operation—but did you know you could also benefit from seeing one before? In this episode, Dr. Laura and Dr. Beth explain why seeing a scoliosis-specific physical therapist prior to spinal fusion surgery can level up both the outcome of the surgery as well as your recovery afterward. While “prehab” is standard for many orthopedic surgeries like knee or hip replacements, it’s still rare in the scoliosis world. Listen in to learn why that needs to change—and how the right preparation can help patients feel more confident, informed, and prepared going into surgery. In this episode, we discuss: What “prehab” is and why it matters before spinal fusionWhy scoliosis PT is often overlooked prior to surgeryHow improving spinal flexibility can optimize surgical correctionWhen mobility and stretching are appropriate for scoliosisThe role of strength, endurance, and core training before surgeryHow breathing training supports rib mobility, lung health, and recoveryHow it feels when your spine is suddenly corrected—& how to prepare for itPractical pre-op education surgeons often don’t have time to coverNutrition tips, protein intake, hydration, & digestion prep (yes, even poop)Learning how to move safely: getting in/out of bed, chairs, and daily activitiesPlanning your home setup, stairs, and assistive equipment ahead of timeDr. Beth and Dr. Laura also share insights from their own clinical experience working with teens and adults preparing for spinal fusion, along with lessons learned from real post-op recoveries. If you’re facing scoliosis surgery—or supporting someone who is—this episode will help you understand how preparing your body and mind ahead of time can lead to a smoother, more confident recovery. Need Help Preparing for Surgery? Both Dr. Laura and Dr. Beth offer scoliosis-specific care and virtual options for those who don’t have access to a trained scoliosis PT locally. Resources & next steps: If you’re curious about working virtually with a scoliosis-trained pro, connect with Dr. Laura or Dr. Beth: Dr. Laura's websiteDr. Beth’s website Join the conversation: Have questions about scoliosis-specific PT or want help finding a trained therapist? Reach out to Dr. Laura or Dr. Beth And don’t forget to follow, rate, and share ScoliPod to help more people discover evidence-based scoliosis care. Finally, don't forget to subscribe to ScoliPod on your favorite pod catcher so you never miss an episode! Listen on Apple PodcastsListen on SpotifySupport the show

17 min
JAN 21

10. Managing Pain Flares: How The Experts Manage Their Pain With Scoliosis

What does scoliosis management really look like—even for the experts? In this episode, Dr. Beth and Dr. Laura get personal. Instead of talking theory or protocols, they share their own lived experiences with scoliosis, pain flare-ups, injuries, and the ongoing process of managing a curved spine in real life. Despite years of training, professional expertise, and consistent movement practices, they discuss how pain can still show up—and how they’ve learned to respond to it with awareness, adaptability, and compassion rather than fear. In this episode, they cover: Why having scoliosis doesn’t automatically mean constant pain—and why flare-ups can still happenLaura’s experience managing recurring neck pain, headaches, and tension after spinal fusionBeth’s journey with weightlifting, injury, recovery, and learning when to pull backHow stress, sleep, hydration, nutrition, and fatigue can influence pain levelsThe emotional side of pain, including fear, frustration, and sensitivity after injuryWhy pain doesn’t always mean damage—and how the nervous system plays a roleThe importance of building a personal toolbox for flare-upsWhy X-rays don’t tell the whole story—and how people can feel better even when their curve doesn’t changeThe role of movement, strength training, and daily activity in long-term spine healthThis episode is a reminder that scoliosis care is primarily about learning how to listen to your body, respond thoughtfully, and keep moving forward, even when progress isn’t linear. If you’ve ever wondered, “Am I doing something wrong if I still have pain?”—this conversation is for you. Resources & next steps: If you’re curious about working virtually with a scoliosis-trained pro, connect with Dr. Laura or Dr. Beth: Dr. Laura's websiteDr. Beth’s website Join the conversation: Have questions about scoliosis-specific PT or want help finding a trained therapist? Reach out to Dr. Laura or Dr. Beth And don’t forget to follow, rate, and share ScoliPod to help more people discover evidence-based scoliosis care. Finally, don't forget to subscribe to ScoliPod on your favorite pod catcher so you never miss an episode! Listen on Apple PodcastsListen on SpotifySupport the show

21 min
JAN 14

9. Highlights From the Columbia Pediatric Scoliosis Symposium

In this episode, Dr. Laura and Dr. Beth share key takeaways from the Columbia University Pediatric Scoliosis Symposium, one of the leading interdisciplinary scoliosis conferences in the country. They break down the most impactful sessions, emerging research, and evolving approaches to scoliosis care—spanning pediatrics, adults, surgery, bracing, physical therapy, mental health, and community support. This episode offers a behind-the-scenes look at where scoliosis care is headed and what clinicians and patients alike can learn from it. Highlights of the episode: Why the Columbia Symposium is a leader in scoliosis education and researchThe value of an interdisciplinary approach (surgeons, PTs, orthotists, mental health professionals)Updates on pediatric and adolescent scoliosis treatmentA growing focus on adult non-operative managementInnovations and ongoing questions around adult bracingCurrent perspectives on spinal fusion vs. tetheringSurgical planning advances, including AI and custom rod shapingInsights into spondylolysis and rehab protocols for young athletesNew research on muscle activation asymmetry in scoliosisBone health considerations, including vitamin D and long-term risksThe expanding role of mental and emotional health in scoliosis careCommunity & Connection Reflections on the importance of scoliosis community and shared experienceHighlights from the inaugural Spine & Wine community meetupWhy connection and storytelling matter for long-term well-beingKey Takeaways Scoliosis care continues to move toward patient-specific, holistic treatmentAdult scoliosis research and treatment options are expandingMental health, education, and community are essential—not optional—parts of careCollaboration across specialties leads to better outcomesResources: Columbia University's Lunch And Learn series Watch the recording of the Scoliosis Symposium here Join the Conversation: Have questions about scoliosis-specific PT or want help finding a trained therapist? Reach out to Dr. Laura or Dr. Beth And don’t forget to rate & share ScoliPod to help more people discover evidence-based scoliosis care. Finally, don't forget to subscribe to ScoliPod on your favorite pod catcher so you never miss an episode! Listen on Apple PodcastsListen on Spotify Support the show

35 min
JAN 7

8. Virtual Scoliosis Support: Can Online Sessions Really Help?

Virtual Scoliosis Support – What You Need to Know In this episode, Dr. Beth and Dr. Laura explore the growing role of virtual treatment and coaching for scoliosis. For many people, access to a scoliosis-informed physical therapist or movement professional is limited—this conversation breaks down how virtual care can bridge that gap. The hosts discuss how scoliosis-specific assessments, movement analysis, and education can be done effectively online, and why virtual care often empowers clients to become more independent and confident in their movement routines. Highlights of this episode: Why access to scoliosis-trained providers is still a major challengeHow virtual scoliosis assessments work (without hands-on treatment)What clinicians can learn from posture, movement, and functional testing onlineThe importance of clear cueing, communication, and client awarenessHow virtual sessions promote independence and better carryover at homeBenefits of being assessed in your real-life environmentCommon barriers to in-person care—and how virtual care removes themHow group coaching and community support enhance outcomesWhy scoliosis-specific expertise often matters more than in-person accessDr. Laura’s virtual coaching approach: Detailed intake and history before sessionsVisual posture and movement analysisFunctional movement assessmentsEmphasis on communication, cueing, and body awarenessHelping clients understand what they feel and see in their own bodiesDr. Beth’s virtual coaching & group model: Individual scoliosis education and curve-specific assessmentsCustomized programs delivered through the Strength & Spine appOngoing monitoring and real-time exercise modificationsGroup coaching for affordability, accountability, and communityLive Q&A sessions and peer supportWhy virtual scoliosis support works: Removes geographic barriersFits into real life and real spacesEncourages long-term independenceProvides scoliosis-specific guidance many don’t receive locallyBuilds connection with others living with scoliosisWho Virtual Care May Be Right For: People without access to scoliosis-trained providersThose seeking curve-specific guidanceAnyone overwhelmed by traditional PT limitationsIndividuals wanting flexibility, education, and communityResources & next steps: If you’re curious about working virtually with a scoliosis-trained pro, connect with Dr. Laura or Dr. Beth: Dr. Laura's websiteDr. Beth’s website Join the conversation: Have questions about scoliosis-specific PT or want help finding a trained therapist? Reach out to Dr. Laura or Dr. Beth And don’t forget to follow, rate, and share ScoliPod to help more people discover evidence-based scoliosis care. Next episode: A live recap from the SOSORT Conference — all the latest scoliosis research, simplified. Finally, don't forget to subscribe to ScoliPod on your favorite pod catcher so you never miss an episode! Listen on Apple PodcastsListen on SpotifySupport the show

17 min
12/24/2025

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 enjoyThe powerful role of gentle exposure, mindfulness, and graded movementHow identity, community, and sport play into recoveryWhat to do when a previous provider has said “never run” or “don’t lift weights”The surprising truth about running, impact, and bone densityWhy strength training becomes essential after age 30How clinicians can help patients feel safe — not scared — in their bodiesThis 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. Also, don't forget to subscribe to ScoliPod on your favorite pod catcher so you never miss an episode! Listen on Apple PodcastsListen on SpotifySupport the show

37 min
12/10/2025

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 patternsGraded exposure—starting with gentle, supported movements and gradually building confidenceFunctional activity-based approaches like walking more, taking the stairs, or increasing daily movementCommunity and professional support, including group fitness, scoliosis-informed physical therapy, and even mental health counselingCompassion, patience, and realistic timelines, recognizing that unlearning long-held fears takes steady, consistent effortThey 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. 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!Work with Dr. LauraWork with Dr. BethFinally, don't forget to subscribe to ScoliPod on your favorite pod catcher so you never miss an episode! Listen on Apple PodcastsListen on SpotifySupport the show

18 min
11/26/2025

5. Stretching vs. Strengthening for Scoliosis

Many people with scoliosis feel constant stiffness and assume they need more stretching. But as Dr. Laura and Dr. Beth explain, tightness doesn’t always mean short muscles — sometimes it’s a sign of fatigue, overwork, or instability. While stretching can offer temporary relief, it often doesn’t address the underlying cause of muscle tension. Together they discuss why stabilization and strength training tend to be more effective and often lead to longer-term relief and improved posture — especially when done with scoliosis-specific principles & techniques. They describe how building up deep stabilizers and strengthening underactive muscles (often on the concave side of a curve) can reduce tightness naturally over time. What you should know: Stretching feels good—but may not solve the problem. Muscles that feel tight may actually be overworked or protecting unstable joints.Stability first. Learning to find and maintain a more neutral spine position is the foundation for building strength safely.Strength reduces tightness. When muscles are strong enough to support the spine, the nervous system can relax, easing that “constant tension” feeling.Personalization matters. Every scoliosis curve is unique; there’s no one-size-fits-all “right” muscle to strengthen.Progress at your pace. Start small, focus on consistency, and remember — movement is medicine.Pro Tips from Dr. Laura & Dr. Beth: Take photos or videos of your posture to better understand your body’s alignment.Pair your stretches with active elongation or dynamic warm-ups rather than static holds.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!Work with Dr. LauraWork with Dr. BethDon’t fear strength training! With the right form and awareness, it’s one of the most beneficial tools for scoliosis management.📚 Resources Mentioned Strength and Spine's Stretching with Scoliosis CourseThe Curves In Motion Masterclass: Mastering Exercise With Scoliosis & Spinal Fusion by Dr. LauraBottom line: If you’ve been relying on stretching alone, we hope this episode encourages you to add stabilization and strength training to your routine. Your future body will thank you for it! Finally, don't forget to subscribe to ScoliPod on your favorite pod catcher so you never miss an episode! Listen on Apple PodcastsListen on SpotifySupport the show

26 min
11/12/2025

4. Live from the SOSORT Conference in Dubrovnik Croatia (Recorded April 2025)

Live from Dubrovnik — Summarizing the Latest Research in Scoliosis Care Click here to watch this episode on YouTube with the beautiful backdrop of Dubrovnik! In this special episode of ScoliPod, Dr. Beth and Dr. Laura check in from Dubrovnik, Croatia after spending four days immersed in the latest scoliosis research and clinical insights at the 2025 SOSORT Conference. They break down their biggest takeaways from each day, covering everything from new approaches to adult scoliosis to the evolving understanding of exercise, bracing, and screening. The main topics covered include: Adult Scoliosis Research: Updated insights into the three main types of adult scoliosis (de novo, adolescent-onset, and secondary), plus new data showing exercise can improve quality of life and even reduce curves modestly.Adult Bracing Advances: Exploration of soft and rigid brace designs for adults — a growing area of study focused on pain reduction and posture improvement.Scoliosis-Specific Exercise (PSSE): A practical session comparing different schools of scoliosis-specific physical therapy and the importance of self-correction and stabilization training.General vs. Specific Exercise: Research showing that while scoliosis-specific exercise best improves Cobb angles, general fitness still plays a major role in enhancing quality of life for teens.Surgery and Quality of Life: New findings suggesting that individuals with curves up to 60° can still have excellent quality of life — potentially reshaping when surgery is considered.Emerging Technology: Advances in telehealth assessments, 3D-printed braces, and low-radiation imaging techniques.Hypermobility and Scoliosis: How flexibility can actually improve exercise and bracing outcomes when paired with proper stabilization work.Global Collaboration: The importance of unified screening standards and multidisciplinary teamwork across PTs, orthotists, and surgeons worldwide.Overall Impression: Dr. Laura and Dr. Beth enjoyed the conference programming, as always, leaving feeling energized by the progress in conservative scoliosis care and the growing collaboration across professionals from doctors to therapists to orthotists (the professionals who make scoliosis braces). If you are a professional working with scoliosis, they recommend exploring SOSORT membership to stay engaged in the evolving research shaping scoliosis treatment today, as well as make amazing connections with like-minded individuals from around the world. Resources Mentioned: SOSORT (The Society on Scoliosis Orthopaedic and Rehabilitation Treatment)Strength & Spine Group Programs — accountability & support for scoliosis-specific exercise.More Resources: Follow us on Instagram: @laura.g.dpt@strengthandspineLearn more about our services:https://www.drlauraglazebrook.com/https://www.strengthandspine.com/Related blogs by Dr. Laura:Learn More About Scoliosis & Scoliosis ExerciseHighlights from SOSORT 2024 in BostonListen in to hear how the latest global research is shaping the future of scoliosi Support the show

15 min
10/29/2025

3. What is a Scoliosis-Specific Physical Therapist?

Welcome back to ScoliPod — the show rewriting the rules about living with a curved spine. Join Dr. Laura and Dr. Beth as they dive into the path to becoming a physical therapist and how some PTs go on to specialize specifically in scoliosis care. This episode is for you if you’ve ever wondered: What kind of training physical therapists go throughHow scoliosis-specific certification worksWhat to look for when choosing a PT for scoliosis or spinal fusion recoveryWhat We Cover: The journey to becoming a physical therapist in the U.S. → What a Doctorate of Physical Therapy (DPT) includes → Licensure and specialization optionsWhat makes a scoliosis-specific therapist different → The main international training schools (Rigo Concept, SEAS, SSOL, and more) → What a Level 1 scoliosis-specific course looks like → Why case studies and continued education matterHow scoliosis research continues to evolve → The latest findings on exercise, sports participation, and curve management → Why it’s essential to work with practitioners who stay current with researchA preview of the upcoming SOSORT Conference, where Dr. Beth and Dr. Laura will bring back the latest scoliosis research updatesKey Takeaways: Not all physical therapists have scoliosis-specific training — and that’s okay, but it’s important to know the difference.Scoliosis-specific schools require hands-on experience, case studies, and ongoing education.Current research supports activity and movement — there’s no single “bad” sport for scoliosis.The field is growing rapidly, and staying connected to research keeps care up to date and effective. Resources Mentioned: Find a local scoliosis specialist here: Rigo Concept - Spanish school of scoliosisISICO/ SEAS - (Scientific Exercise Approach to Scoliosis)SSOL - Scoliosis and Spine Online LearningPSSE-Schroth - Greek based trainingSOSORT (International Society on Scoliosis Orthopaedic and Rehabilitation Treatment)Dr. Laura's websiteDr. Beth’s website Join the Conversation: Have questions about scoliosis-specific PT or want help finding a trained therapist? 👉 Reach out to Dr. Laura or Dr. Beth And don’t forget to follow, rate, and share ScoliPod to help more people discover evidence-based scoliosis care. Next episode: A live recap from the SOSORT Conference — all the latest scoliosis research, simplified. Finally, don't forget to subscribe to ScoliPod on your favorite pod catcher so you never miss an episode! Listen on Apple PodcastsListen on SpotifySupport the show

20 min
10/15/2025

2. What is scoliosis?

Episode 2: What is Scoliosis? Scoliosis can feel confusing, overwhelming, and even scary when you first hear the diagnosis — but it doesn’t have to be. In this episode of ScoliPod, Dr. Laura and Dr. Beth break down the basics of scoliosis: what it is, how it’s measured, and what treatment options are available today. Whether you’re newly diagnosed, supporting a loved one, or a clinician who treats scoliosis, this episode will give you clarity, evidence-based insight, and encouragement. In this episode you will learn: What scoliosis actually is (it’s more than just a “sideways curve”)How scoliosis is measured (Adams Forward Bend Test, Cobb angle, X-ray)Different curve types (S-curve vs. C-curve) and why no two spines look alikeThe difference between adolescent vs. adult-onset scoliosisRisk factors for curve progression & the latest research on genetics, vitamin D, and activity levelThe role of scoliosis-specific exercise (PSSE/Schroth) and why specialized training mattersWhy having scoliosis or spinal fusion doesn’t mean you can’t live a long, active, healthy life✨ Key takeaway: Scoliosis is highly individual — but with early detection, the right treatment, and the right support, you can take control of your spine health and thrive. Resources & Links Mentioned: Directories for certified scoliosis-specific exercise practitioners: Rigo Concept - Spanish school of scoliosisISICO - Italian school of scoliosisSSOL - Scoliosis and Spine Online LearningPSSE-Schroth - Greek based trainingFollow us on Instagram: @strengthandspine@laura.g.dptLearn more about our services:https://www.strengthandspine.com/https://www.drlauraglazebrook.com/Read some blogs with more on scoliosis and scoliosis exercise:https://www.drlauraglazebrook.com/blog/what-is-scoliosishttps://strengthandspine.com/blog/b/UnderstandingtheSchrothMethod If this episode helped you, share it with a friend, parent, or healthcare provider who wants to better understand scoliosis. From our curvy (and one fused) spines to yours, thanks for listening — and stay tuned for upcoming episodes on treatments, exercise, and living well with scoliosis and spinal fusion. Finally, don't forget to subscribe to ScoliPod on your favorite pod catcher so you never miss an episode! Listen on Apple PodcastsListen on SpotifySupport the show

29 min
10/01/2025

1. Meet your hosts!

🎙️ ScoliPod – Episode 1: Meet Your Hosts & Rewriting the Rules of Scoliosis Care Welcome to ScoliPod, the show that’s rewriting the rules about living with a curved spine! Hosted by Dr. Beth Terranova and Dr. Laura Glazebrook—two physical therapists, scoliosis superheroes, and movement enthusiasts—this podcast brings you research-backed solutions, expert insights, and real-life stories that prove one thing: you are more than your scoliosis diagnosis. In our very first episode, we’re sharing our personal journeys with scoliosis—from early diagnoses to spinal fusion, Olympic weightlifting, and becoming physical therapists specializing in scoliosis care. You’ll hear: Beth’s Story – From an active teen athlete with scoliosis, to discovering the power of strength training and the Schroth Method, to founding Strength & Spine and helping people with scoliosis thrive through movement. Laura’s Story – From spinal fusion surgery at age 11, to a career in pelvic health and later scoliosis-specific therapy, and how discovering the right exercises transformed her own strength and wellness journey. Why We Started This Podcast – We’ve made it our mission to bust myths (like “never lift weights with scoliosis”), share the latest research, advocate for bracing and exercise when evidence supports it, and create a supportive community for people with scoliosis, spinal fusion, and their families - as well as the movement and fitness professionals who work with them. Behind the Name “ScoliPod” – How a Pokémon called Scolipede inspired the name of our podcast. (Yes, really!) Whether you’re living with scoliosis, supporting someone who is, or just passionate about smart, evidence-based movement, you’ll find hope, knowledge, and community here! 🔗 Resources & Next Steps Follow us on Instagram: @strengthandspine @laura.g.dptLearn more about scoliosis-specific exercise:Dr. Beth’s website: strengthandspine.comDr. Laura’s blog: Learn More About Scoliosis & Scoliosis ExerciseShare this episode with someone who needs encouragement in their scoliosis journey.We’d love to hear from you! What topics or questions would you like us to tackle in future episodes? Email us at scolipodcast@gmail.com Finally,don't forget to subscribe to ScoliPod on your favorite pod catcher so you never miss an episode! Listen on Apple PodcastsListen on Spotify Support the show

34 min

11 Episodes

5

out of 5

10 Ratings

Welcome to Scolipod, the show that’s rewriting the rules about living with a curved spine! Hosted by Dr. Laura Glazebrook and Beth Terranova —two physical therapists, scoliosis superheroes, and movement enthusiasts—this podcast brings you research-backed solutions, expert insights, and real-life stories that prove one thing: you are more than your scoliosis diagnosis.

Creator

Beth & Laura
Years Active

2025 - 2026
Episodes

11
Rating

Clean
Copyright

© 2026 ScoliPod
Show Website

ScoliPod

Health & Fitness

Health & Fitness

Updated Monthly
Medicine

Medicine

Updated Weekly