The Schroth Method for scoliosis therapy at Sheltering Arms Institute

The Schroth Method at Sheltering Arms Institute is a non-operative treatment for idiopathic scoliosis that incorporates both physical therapy and exercise.

THE SCHROTH METHOD FOR SCOLIOSIS THERAPY AT SHELTERING ARMS INSTITUTE

Innovative therapies, measurable outcomes

A non-surgical approach to treating scoliosis, the Schroth Method is based on specific radiologic curve classifications and uses physiotherapeutic scoliosis-specific exercises to allow for the three-dimensional correction of spinal curvature.

On average, adult Schroth Method patients at Sheltering Arms Institute experience a 25 percent improvement in back pain and a 30 percent improvement in overall quality of life while adolescent patients typically see up to a 75 percent improvement of upright posture.

OUTPATIENT TREATMENT

Convenient and accessible

The Schroth Method is delivered in the outpatient setting at Sheltering Arms Institute’s Hanover Physical Therapy Clinic & Rehabilitation Center in Mechanicsville, Virginia.

Recovery goals

Schroth therapy goals vary by age and degree of scoliosis. In adolescents aged 10-18, the primary objective is to prevent curve progression by correcting scoliotic posture. In adults over 18, the Schroth Method emphasizes pain relief and comfort. Specific individualized goals may include:

  • Improved breathing and increased lung capacity
  • Improved flexibility and dexterity 
  • Improved posture 
  • Improved psychological well-being
  • Maintaining correct posture during daily activities 
  • Pain reduction 
  • Spine stabilization
  • Improved core and back strength

The Schroth treatment at Sheltering Arms was excellent. Rachel and the entire team at SAI were experts in this unique therapy that addressed my scoliosis diagnosis.

Schroth Method Exercises

Physiotherapeutic Scoliosis-Specific Exercises are rooted in evidence-backed research, innovative techniques and clinical expertise.

Achieving muscular symmetry

Addressing under- and over-worked muscles associated with the spine

Rotational angular breathing

Unique exercises designed to contribute to the reshaping of the rib cage and surrounding soft tissue

Posture awareness

Individualized education related to each individual’s posture and best practices

Improved core strength

By incorporating a blend of exercises, muscular symmetry improves, creating stronger spine stabilization and core

Growing up with scoliosis, I understand the importance of proper treatment – it paved the way to my profession! At Sheltering Arms Institute, I love helping patients strengthen and recover through their personalized scoliosis treatment.

THE SCHROTH METHOD FOR SCOLIOSIS THERAPY FAQs

Understanding the Schroth Method for scoliosis

The Schroth Method is a non-operative treatment for idiopathic scoliosis that incorporates both physical therapy and exercise into one’s daily lifestyle. The therapy is based on specific radiologic and clinical classifications and uses physiotherapeutic scoliosis-specific exercises (PSSE) to allow for three-dimensional correction of spinal curvature.

The Schroth Method was developed by Katharina Schroth, a scoliosis patient, in Germany in the late 1800s.

Schroth Method exercises are relatively low impact and utilize props such as poles and a wall ladder. Physiotherapeutic Scoliosis-Specific Exercises also focus on breathing and posture development. 

Candidates for the Schroth Method include adolescent patients (ages 10-18) who have been diagnosed with idiopathic scoliosis, adult patients over 18 with a diagnosis of idiopathic scoliosis who are experiencing back pain, and patients diagnosed with Scheuermann’s Kyphosis (Juvenile Kyphosis).

There are some cases where the Schroth Method is not advisable, or treatment may be limited. Those conditions include:

  • Degenerative adult scoliosis (limited treatment)
  • Osteoporosis (limited treatment)
  • Post-surgical scoliosis patients (limited treatment)
  • Spondylolisthesis (limited treatment)
  • Cognitive/developmental disabilities
  • Spasticity
  • Reactive scoliosis from spinal lesions or other underlying pathologies
  • Infection or active phases of an inflammatory disease
  • Psychiatric diagnoses, including hysteria and psychosis

The length of outpatient therapy varies from person to person; however, therapy for scoliosis usually lasts 12 physical therapy sessions and varies depending on skeletal maturity. Your therapist will work with you to develop a customized and effective treatment plan to help you achieve your best recovery.

Please bring a copy of your most recent spinal x-ray to your first physical therapy appointment.

No, you do not need a physical therapy prescription to be seen for an initial evaluation. Please call us at (804) 764-1000 to schedule an appointment with our Schroth-certified therapist.

Wear form-fitting exercise attire that allows your therapist to easily view your spine curvature. Avoid wearing racerback tops as these tops will cover your spine and prevent your therapist from seeing your curve accurately.

The Schroth Method for scoliosis therapy at Sheltering Arms Institute is offered at our Hanover Outpatient Center, which is located at 8226 Meadowbridge Road in Mechanicsville, Virginia.

Start your Journey

Learn more about The Schroth Method for scoliosis therapy at Sheltering Arms Institute

Contact a specialist at Sheltering Arms Institute to learn more about how you can gain more freedom in your everyday life.