SCHROTH SCOLIOSIS TREATMENT

The Schroth Method is a treatment approach used in the conservative management of individuals with scoliosis and other spinal deformities. It is applicable to patients of all ages and in all stages of scoliosis progression, both before and after surgery. Through a combination of isometric exercises and corrective breathing techniques, this method aims to stop or decrease the rate of progression of the spinal curves, resulting in decreased pain, increased cardio-pulmonary function, and improved posture and appearance.

The Method was developed in Germany in the 1920s by Katharina Schroth, who was looking for a way to deal with her own scoliosis, and further expanded by her daughter, Christa-Lehnert Schroth. It is a widely used and accepted treatment method throughout Europe, and increasingly more in the United States, where the first certification course was offered in 2011-2012.

Patients are active participants in their therapy. From the very first day, patients learn about their specific spinal curves, the subsequent muscle imbalances and the habitual postures that can increase them; they are taught the principles of elongation and proper positioning during daily activities - relaxed and conscious posture - so they do not increase the scoliotic pattern.

During the physical therapy treatments, the therapist uses manual and positioning techniques to stretch and relax tight muscles and, using visual, tactile and verbal cues, helps patients become aware of breathing into the collapsed areas and learn exercises to maintain the corrected posture. Patients are also provided with a home exercise program, which is an essential component of the treatment.