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 Jenn shares why this fear-based approach is outdated, unsupported by research, and often harmful.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. 

Also, don't forget to subscribe to ScoliPod on your favorite pod catcher so you never miss an episode!

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