The Schroth Method is a non-surgical 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

This approach to scoliosis treatment was developed by Katharina Schroth and further popularized by her daughter Christa. Born in Germany in late 1800s, Katharina Schroth had scoliosis that was unsuccessfully treated with bracing. She developed her own breathing technique and exercises to manage her scoliosis. She and her daughter opened a clinic, where they treated more than 150 patients at a time.

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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 3-D approach to address the curve from all angles. In addition to 3-D scoliosis, this method is effective for sagittal plane dysfunctions such as Scheuermann's kyphosis, lordosis, flat back, and spinal inversion disorders.

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Most patients see visible improvement in the degree of their spine curvature after completing a Schroth program. The length of the program may vary but typically includes between five and 20 sessions. Traditionally, the sessions were several hours long and were set in a tight daily schedule. Today, Schroth programs are usually less intense and include shorter sessions spread over a longer period. The duration and frequency largely depend on the patient’s tolerance and the extent of the scoliosis.

Besides the correction of the curve, outcomes of a Schroth program may include:

• Improved posture

• Improved core stability and strength

• Easier breathing

• Less pain

• Improved overall movement pattern and function

• Improved self-management and understanding of the spine

• Better pelvis alignment

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The main goal of Schroth exercises is to prevent scoliosis from advancing. Depending on your age, bone maturity, and degree of curvature, bracing may also be a part of the treatment. Schroth-specific breathing complements the bracing as children are taught to breathe within their custom brace. Managing scoliosis with the Schroth Method and bracing may be an option for patients who want to avoid surgery. However, a long-term commitment to the Schroth guidelines is necessary to make this treatment successful.

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The listed costs for the 60 & 90-minute physical therapy visits are the out-of-pocket/self-pay rates, like if you have a deductible to meet. Your specific insurance policy benefits will determine what your payment responsibility is, this will be verified before starting therapy.