Schroth Method
The Schroth Method is a nonsurgical option for scoliosis treatment. It uses exercises customized for each patient 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.
History
The Schroth method is one of the longest established treatment methods for scoliosis across the board. The method was developed by Katharina Schroth (a scoliosis sufferer) who wanted a more proactive approach to improving some of the functional issue associated with scoliosis – Schroth therapy was made available by Katharina as early as 1921.
The Schroth method itself is comprised of more than 100 individual exercises, which are chosen and organised individually for each patient. A Schroth program usually consists of 6-8 core exercises which are specifically targeted for the curve in question. This is because the Schroth method recognises that what’s appropriate for the common 3-curve, right thoracic scoliosis, for example, would not work for the 4-curve variety.
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 you 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 3D approach to address the curve from all angles.The spine rotation in scoliosis is different in each person. Schroth exercises are tailored to your unique curvature of the spine. The exercises can be performed while standing, sitting or lying down. Props such as therapy balls, poles and Schroth bars can also be used to assist in correcting scoliosis.
Schroth exercises, although different from person to person, include three important components:
Muscular Symmetry
The changes in the curvature of your spine also affect the muscles in your back. On one side of the back the muscles may weaken and waste away. On the other side, the muscles may be overworked and prominent. Schroth exercises are designed to address both problems, aiming to achieve muscular symmetry.
Rotational Angular Breathing
Breathing is an important part of the Schroth Method. The method uses a special breathing technique called rotational angular breathing. The idea is to rotate the spine with breathing to help reshape the rib cage and surrounding soft tissue.
Awareness of Your Posture
Katharina Schroth relied heavily on mirrors in her original practice. Mirrors helped her patients develop awareness of their posture. Being aware of the position of your spine is the first step to correcting it. Postural awareness is especially important when it comes to activities of daily living. If you have scoliosis, you will always need to be mindful of the positions that may make it worse.
Breathing techniques are performed using 3-dimensional cues, to help lengthen, expand, and decompress areas of the trunk. As scoliosis and Scheuermann’s Kyphosis may affect the position of the ribs and diaphragm, breathing exercises are a way to activate these muscles in a way that supports your curve.In asymmetrical conditions such as scoliosis, the muscles on both sides of the spine are affected in different ways. In Schroth Method exercises, therapists use a range of muscle activation techniques to strengthen your muscles in a curve-specific way.Depending on your goals, your therapist may integrate functional exercises to help you lift, bend, and reach. As your treatment plan progresses, curve-specific modifications and cues may also be provided to help you with your sports and activities.We offer scoliosis Physiotherapy treatments using the Schroth principles via virtual appointments Online, and you can choose your combination of in-person or virtual visits that work best for you.