The Schroth Method was created by a German-born physical therapist, Katherina Schroth. In her teenage, she was diagnosed with scoliosis and was physically and psychologically affected by this diagnosis like many other scoliosis patients. She began wearing a brace without achieving the desirable results. The lack of treatment options and the insufficient benefit of wearing a brace made her begin developing the "Three-Dimensional Scoliosis Program." Over the years, her discoveries about treating scoliosis patients helped her refine and complete her technique, which she called "Breathing Orthopaedics." In 1921, she opened her practice in Meissen / Saxony and started treating scoliosis patients from Germany and abroad. (Picture from the book Three-Dimensional Treatment For Scoliosis by Christa Lehnert-Schroth).
Three-Dimensional Treatment
Frequently, the Schroth Method is referred to as a three-dimensional treatment technique. Scoliosis causes the spine to compress, shift, and rotate. It is a pathology that occurs in three planes. This technique, a unique approach, works on the transverse, sagittal, and coronal planes of the body. The exercises achieve the optimum result when all the pathological spinal deformities are addressed at the same time. The exercise methodology is built to elongate the spine, shift, and de-rotate it to balance the posture.
Curve-specific movements, mental imaging, and body awareness also play significant roles in posture corrections. Specific breathing patterns are especially important for correcting the curvature through rib movement.
Patient Education
The first step in the success of scoliosis re-posturing is patient education. That includes intensive but easy-to-understand education about the anatomy of scoliosis and its pathological effects on the spine. By taking the time to understand the ramifications and benefits of this technique, the patient's chances of success greatly improve.
Support and interaction with family members are also favorable success markers. One can perform a series of mobilization techniques at home, which may require the aid of someone who does not need to be a clinician.
Frequent constructive and corrective feedback from family members during the exercises will encourage the patient on this continuing path.
Non-Invasive and Home-Based
The Schroth Method is a non-invasive treatment option. Although the patient's condition and the treating doctor’s recommendation may suggest surgery, we believe surgery should be the last option. Accurate bracing plays a part in correcting the curvature. We do not offer braces at our facility; however, based on the Cobb angle, we may recommend a Schroth-compatible brace. Some bracing methods used with scoliosis patients are incompatible with the Schroth Method. Accurate bracing plays a big part in correcting the curvature.
Schroth exercises are an essential part of this technique. The self-corrective re-posturing exercises are designed based on the type of curve. Regular and daily routine is the key to success. All the Schroth exercises can be performed easily at home using a few small tools, such as a gym ball, yoga belt, resistance band, and long poles.
