Scoliosis treatment with Schroth Method

Treatment of Scoliosis with the Schroth Method

Before we dive into the therapy, here's an interesting historical insight! Even in ancient Greece, Hippocrates documented observations about scoliosis, initially considering it a muscle-related issue. Later, we read in the writings of Celsius that he recommended exercise as a therapy. The term "scoliosis" was given by Galenus in the 2nd century, meaning "curved" or "slanted." It was observed that scoliosis affects the spine in three dimensions: lateral bending, changes in the curvature in the frontal plane, and twisting. In the 19th century, the childhood variant was already described, and in the 1960s, a professional organization dedicated to scoliosis, the Scoliosis Research Society, was established to help expand and coordinate international knowledge among professionals. Science categorizes scoliosis in various ways, based on its origin (known and unknown origins) and the age at which it develops.

The degree of lateral bending in scoliosis can be calculated from an X-ray taken in a standing position, known as the Cobb angle. An X-ray is recommended for a vertebral rotation exceeding 5 degrees, and a curvature of 10 Cobb degrees or more is officially classified as scoliosis, at which point therapeutic exercises are advised (but early correction and therapy for curvature found at a young age should start as soon as possible to prevent worsening). At 20 degrees, bracing is added to therapy, and internationally, surgery is recommended for values around 40-50 degrees, depending on the individual's characteristics.

When can we effectively assist in this process?

It is crucial to recognize that this is primarily the fruit of collaborative work, as the soft tissue treatments, nerve mobilizations, and exercises learned in class can only truly take effect when consistently practiced at home. The result is an excellent body awareness and mastery of a method that will be a faithful companion throughout our lives.

With the Schroth method, we can begin therapy as early as childhood. The most characteristic form develops between the ages of 10 and 18, often of unknown origin. Hormonal changes in girls occur primarily in the year before their first menstruation and the following two years, during which the skeletal system undergoes the most change; for boys, this corresponds to the period around their first growth spurt. However, it is essential to note that while growth is ongoing (up to 18-20-22 years of age), the curvature tends to worsen continuously but more slowly than during the three years of hormonal change. Therefore, starting physical therapy during these three years (or even earlier) is excellent, but it is also crucial to continue afterward to achieve the best possible condition leading to ossification by adulthood.

Additionally, I believe that treatment for scoliosis can absolutely begin in adulthood if there was no opportunity to do so in childhood. Here, the goal is to enhance tissue flexibility and develop muscle strength and stability to prevent discomfort, disc issues, and other pain originating from scoliosis.

The spine is a vital center of our body, which is why therapy concerning it is particularly close to my heart.

If this article piqued your interest or if you have further questions about the therapy, feel free to contact me via email or phone! :)