What is the Schroth Method?
The Schroth method is a conservative physical therapy practice for individuals with scoliosis and kyphosis. It can be used to treat patients with scoliosis and kyphosis of all ages and in all stages of treatment: before surgery, after surgery, and especially if surgery is not indicated. Through specific exercises and corrective breathing techniques, the method aims to elongate the trunk and correct the imbalances of the body. By developing the inner muscles of the rib cage, the method changes the shape of the upper trunk to correct any spinal abnormalities. The result is a decrease in pain, slowing or halting of the curvature progression, and improved cardio-pulmonary function, mobility, and postural stability.
What kind of Exercises will I be doing?
Initially we establish the curvature of the spine, in order to know which exercise to issue. Exercises can include elongation through the spine to help an individual grow tall, working on chest expansion, and reduction of a rib prominence, if present. Every exercise helps with expanding in a way to work out the inner muscle so the rib cage, the smaller muscles of the spine to have more of an ability to activate to work with you through the date to maintain a more erect position.
Scheduling and Program
- 60-90 minute evaluation with one-hour 1:1 follow-ups
The Schroth Exercise Principles:
- Axial elongation
- Asymmetric sagittal straightening
- Increasing frontal plan corrections
- Rotational breathing
- Increasing muscle activation
The Exercise Goals:
- Stabilization of the curve/s
- Mobilization of stiff body parts
- Improvement of postural alignment
- Teach activities of Daily Living
- Promote corrections
- Enhance neuromuscular control
- Increase muscle strength and endurance
- Pain reduction
Is the Schroth Method best used before or after surgery?
Is surgery even required?
The Schroth method is great before or after surgery, and where surgery is not needed. The Schroth exercises are excellent anytime your scoliosis is present, and when you have a rapid growth phase. It is very important during this phase, as there are elements that you can control with the correct exercises.
