physical Therapy
schroth Method for scoliosis
Let's talk curves
Scoliosis is something we all have heard of but we often do not take the time to fully understand what it means and its implications. Scoliosis is a three dimensional change in the spine (rotational changes, lateral changes, and flexion/extension changes). While we tend to focus on the cobb angle, it is much more than that.
Traditionally, the first line of treatment is: “watch and see.” If no progression, great; and if the curve progresses the patient is sent to bracing and then surgery.
Now there is a proactive solution. With the BSPTS Schroth Based scoliosis treatment method offered through Compleo we can help you treat your scoliosis. Treatment includes postural training to learn how to elongate from a neutral pelvis, corrective breathing exercises, and functional retraining of how daily activities are performed.
Our team performs the Schroth Method in both intensive formats (3-4 hours/day) and in the traditional therapy setting (1 hour/day).
SCHROTH FACTS & FAQS
Goals Include:
1. Pain Reduction
2. Improved Respiratory Function
3. Improved Midline Posture
4. Improvement of Scoliosis in 3-dimensions
5. Avoidance of invasive interventions including surgery
6. Work with your orthotist to ensure the best possible brace fit to ensure optimal outcomes
7. Learn how to apply postural corrections in daily activities for improved function
At your first Schroth Evaluation please bring:
1. An order from your physician for physical therapy (It can say evaluate and treat, we are happy to fax a more formalized plan of care request after evaluation is completed)
2. Recent X-rays (within past 6 months are best): Full spine PA view and lateral view. X-rays are best brought on a CD. We can return the CD to you after we look at the images
3. For females please bring or wear a sports bra/swimsuit top that you are comfortable in. We will need to see your full spine to be most effective in our treatment. Males will be asked to perform treatment with shirt off.
4. Leggings or athletic shorts work for bottoms.
The Schroth Method is intended for idiopathic scoliosis (meaning we do not know the cause) and kyphosis. If you or your child is diagnosed with neuromuscular scoliosis we can treat the child in physical therapy but it will not be a strict Schroth approach. Schroth is recommended for cobb angles of 11 degrees and higher. In a developing child, time is of the essence as there is an increased risk of progression with younger age. If you are an adult, we recommend considering the Schroth method if you are experiencing pain/stiffness or have had a recent progression of your curve. If your curve is 30 degrees or more your are more likely to progress as an adult and would benefit from Schroth Exercises.
At this time we do not have a relationship with Medicare. Physical Therapists are not allowed to opt out of medicare which means we are not allowed to treat a medicare patient unless it is for a non-covered service or medicare deems physical therapy no longer necessary. If you are a medicare aged patient interested in the Schroth Method please call us to discuss options.
Learning Schroth is retraining your brain, body, and movement patterns! It takes focus and mental gymnastics. We have found it is easiest to fully understand the concepts in the intensive method. This also allows for patients to receive the method from all areas. Intensives can be performed as a series of weekends or in a one week period. For local patients other arrangements can be made.
Historically non-specific back pain exercises have been used by physical therapists to treat scoliosis which is not as effective as the Schroth Method. We are the first Schroth center in the area and many physicians have not yet had experience with patients who have undergone Schroth Specific Treatment. You have the right to ask your physician for a physical therapy script and to choose your location of treatment. We are happy to speak with your medical team about the benefits of Schroth and how they can help you.
Here are a few citations showing support of the Schroth method. Of course, feel free to call us to discuss further at any time!
Kuru T, Yeldan I, Elcin Dereli E, Ozdincler AR, Dikici F, Colak I. The efficacy of three-dimensional Schroth exercises in adolescent idiopathic scoliosis: A randomized controlled clinical trial. Clinical Rehabilitation. 2015
Lee SG. Improvements of curvature and deformity in a sample of patients with Idiopathic Scoliosis with specific exercises. OA Musculoskeletal Medicine; 2014 Mar 12;2(1):6
Noh DK, You JS-H, Koh J-H, Kim H, Kim D, Ko-S-M, et al. Effects of novel corrective spinal technique on adolescent idiopathic scoliosis as assessed by radiographic imaging. J Back Muscuoloskelet Rehabil. 2014;27:331-8
Pugacheva N. Corrective exercises in multimodality therapy of idiopathic scoliosis in children-analysis of six weeks efficiency- pilot study. Stud Health Technol Inform. 2012; 176:365-371
Schreiber S, Parent EC, Moez EK, Hedden DM, Hill D, Moreau MJ, Lou E, Waktkins, EM, Southon SC. The effect of Schroth exercsises added to the standard of care on the quality of life and muscle endurance in adolescents with idiopathic scoliosis- an assessor and statistician blinded randomized controlled trial: “SOSORT 2015 Award Winner”. Scoliosis. 2015;10:24
