Schroth Therapy for Scoliosis

Scoliosis is the medical term to describe a curvature in the spine or when you have a 'crooked back'. Scoliosis is a very common condition and ranges from mild to severe. People with Scoliosis often have no symptoms, however in many cases they can develop pain in their spine as well as other dysfunctions in their hips, neck and shoulders from compensation. 

WHAT CAN BE DONE?

Physical Therapy is an effective treatment approach for all degrees of Scoliosis. Treatment can range from hands on approaches to exercises to manage and control the spine. Physical Therapists take advanced education to work with persons with Scoliosis. A Schroth method certified therapist is a Physical Therapist who has attained this specialization. Physical Therapy can help you understand your spine, learn how to control it and give you strategies on how to best manage your condition.

WHAT IS THE SCHROTH METHOD?

The Schroth method is an intensive exercise based approach and non-operative treatment for scoliosis, kyphosis and other spinal disorders. The goal is to teach patients how to actively and passively realign their posture in all three planes of the body to reduce spinal deviation as much as possible in all activities, such as sleeping, sitting, walking, reaching, bending, doing yard work. This self realignment, self-correction, is the main component of the Schroth method. Treatment is personalized and tailored to a specific curve pattern and individual abilities. Main therapeutic goal is to interrupt the circular process of scoliosis progression and reduce asymmetric loading on the spine and its effects on body statics, postural and structural adaptations before the end of skeletal maturity. Scoliosis is a complex three dimensional deformity of the spine. Common signs of scoliosis include trunk and pelvis asymmetry seen in a rib and lumbar hump and shoulder or hip asymmetry. Scoliosis is a life-long condition with reported symptoms of back pain, osteoarthritis, decreased respiratory function with psychological impact and decreased quality of life.

Treatments vary depending on the degree and severity of the condition however initial appointments are generally 60 minutes in length. Treatment timelines suggest dedicated physical therapy for 6 weeks initially to develop an exercise based rehabilitation plan. This may consist of 2x/wk appointments for 3 weeks and a 2 week follow up at 5 weeks. The goals of the treatment are to learn Schroth principles, home exercises and postural corrections for activities of daily living. As Scoliosis is a permanent condition often patents will require a follow up appointment every 2 months to ensure good performance and modify their treatment plans. 

1. Prevent surgery
2. Decelerate or prevent further progression 
3. Stabilize spinal corrections in three dimensions
4. Increase chest mobility and respiratory function
5. Trunk symmetry and alignment (cosmetic improvements)
6. Improve postural stability, both static and dynamic postural control
7. Home exercise program
8. Bracing support

1. Teaching scoliosis specific exercises
2. Patient education
3. Breathing techniques
4. Postural adjustments based on principles of Schroth posture variations
5. Individually tailored home exercise program
6. Mobilization techniques

• Appropriate attire: Observation of the spine is required for Schroth Therapy. Clients will be asked to remove their shirts for all sessions. Female clients are asked to wear a sports bra or bathing suit top that does not cover their spine (racer-back tops are not appropriate as they cover the spine). Bottoms: shorts are ideal.
• Recent full spine X-ray (weight bearing, full spine PA and lateral views required). To be completed prior to Initial Assessment to ensure the therapist can be fully prepped and prepared to make the most out of your appointment with exercises tailored appropriately to your curve type. Please refer to family doctor for requisition of full spine X-ray.