(Picture from https://www.medcare.ae/en/health-library/scoliosis-symptoms-causes-and-treatment.html#topic-main)

The Schroth Method is a physiotherapy approach to scoliosis treatment, which is based on exercises tailored to each patient’s spine curvature.

What is the Schroth Method?

The Schroth Method is a nonsurgical approach to scoliosis treatment. It uses customized exercises for each person with scoliosis in order to return the curved spine to a more natural position. The goal of Schroth exercises is to de-rotate, elongate and stabilize the spine in a three-dimensional plane.

This is achieved through physical therapy that focuses on:

• Restoring muscular symmetry and alignment of posture
• Breathing into the concave side of the body
• Teaching you to be aware of your posture and keep this posture in daily life.

What are Schroth exercises for scoliosis?

Scoliosis is a complex condition. From the back, it looks like a sideways curve in a C or an S shape. But what most people don’t see with a naked eye is how the vertebrae in the spine rotate as they form a curve. Spaces between the vertebrae may also become compressed in some areas and stretched in others. That’s why physical therapy for scoliosis requires a 3-D approach to address the curve from all angles. The spine rotation in scoliosis is different in each person. Schroth exercises are tailored to each person's unique curvature of the spine. The exercises can be performed while standing, sitting or lying down.

(Picture from https://scoliosisphysiotherapy.com.au/schroth-application/ )

What results can be expected after completing a Schroth program?

Most patients see visible improvement in the degree of their spine curvature after completing a Schroth program. Besides the correction of the curve, outcomes of a Schroth program may include:

• Improved posture
• Improved core stability and strength
• Easier breathing
• Less pain
• Improved overall movement pattern and function
• Improved self-management and understanding of the spine
• Better pelvis alignment

The main goal of Schroth's exercises is to prevent scoliosis from advancing. Depending on your age, bone maturity and the degree of curvature, bracing may also be a part of the treatment. Schroth-specific breathing complements the bracing as children are taught to breathe within their custom brace. Managing scoliosis with the Schroth Method and bracing may be an option for patients who want to avoid surgery. However, a long-term commitment to the Schroth guidelines is necessary to make this treatment successful.

If you are looking for further information on treatment for your scoliosis, do not hesitate to contact us and discuss further your case.