The Schroth method was founded in 1921 by Katarina Schroth in Germany. Katarina had scoliosis herself and developed an exercise treatment that integrated special positions to realign the spine. She developed the theory of body blocks that defines the postural types of scoliosis deformity. She discovered that specific breathing exercises can improve the appearance of the ribcage and promote the symmetrical function of the lungs. She named these exercises asymmetric rotational breathing.

In 1983, Katarina Schroth established a special scoliosis clinic in Bad Sobernheim, Germany. This clinic still exists today and offers treatment to patients with scoliosis and kyphosis, as well as education to physical therapists towards certifications in International Schroth 3-dimensional Scoliosis Therapy (ISST).

Katarina’s tradition was continued by her daughter Christa Lehnert who wrote a book called Three-Dimensional Treatment of Scoliosis.

Dr Manual Rigo founded the Barcelona Scoliosis Physical Therapy School (BSPTS) and designed a three-dimensional scoliosis brace based on the Cheneau brace concept. The biomechanical principles of the Rigo brace and Schroth therapy principles are aligned. In bracing treatment, optimal results are reached when bracing is supported by physical therapy treatment based on the Schroth method, allowing for better curve correction, improved body symmetry, and improved stability of the curve.

The Rigo brace is available in the United States and it is highly effective. Schroth exercises are performed in conjunction with bracing in order to maximize the effect of the treatment. Since the exercises are performed in corrected spine positions, the exercise time is considered the same as bracing time and does not take away time from the brace breaks.

Schroth method was originated 100 years ago at the time when scoliosis bracing was not even developed. Therefore, Schroth method highly beneficial for all scoliosis patients regardless of wether they are braced or not, and the type of brace they are treated with.

The Schroth method is based on understanding of 3-dimensional nature of scoliosis. Our physical world is 3 dimensional and indeed human body and spine are 3 dimensional structures as well. Human spine is a mobile structure that allows our body to bend and turn in all directions with minimal effort. The movement of the trunk is possible because spinal vertebrae can move, turning and shifting against each other just like the beads on a stiff string.

The ribs and muscles of the trunk attach to the spinal vertebrae. Therefore asymmetrical position of spinal vertebrae will cause asymmetry of the body.

When we look at typical scoliosis Xray we can only see 2-dimensional image. The entire picture can only be imagined. It is a very difficult task for a typical patient and even for a new practitioner. There are newest 3-dimensional radiological techniques and views available through EOS Xray technology , but they are not easily accessible yet. Since we have to consider all aspects of the shape of the spine the 3Dimensional correction and stabilization is not a simple process and requires step by step approach and patience.

The goals of Schroth method therapy

to restore normalized spinal alignment through specific exercises that include corrective positioning, corrective breathing,
to stabilize normalized spinal alignment through strengthening of the postural muscles
to training postural awareness through movement to retain corrected posture during daily activities

Schroth treatment steps:

Restoring normal pelvic alignment

Restoring spinal elongation

Restoring spinal symmetry in frontal plane (side to side symmetry of the body)

Restoring symmetry of the ribcage through special highly effective breathing exercises named “rotational angular breathing”.

Strengthening postural muscles that is integrated together with positioning and breathing exercises which is often done in asymmetrical way in order to restore the symmetry of the body

Integrating improved spinal alignment and postural control into movement so that better posture can be retained during normal daily activities .

Treatment is chosen according to the patient’s curve type and based on specific curve classification system. Each type of curvature is addressed with specific exercises and postural corrections. Some exercises are common for all curve types, but other are very exclusive or may be contradicted. The choice of exercise progression is the art of the treatment process that often depends on the knowledge and experience of the Schroth method practitioner.

The exercises are performed in a variety of positions with the goal of maximally corrected spinal alignment . The exercise progression usually starts from basic elongation exercises , training posture in gravity-eliminated positions and gradually progressing into more challenging upright positions such as sitting and standing

Special treatment tools are usually used for the exercise setup such as traditional positioning props ( rice bags, yoga blocks, benches and rolls ), exercise wall bars for postural support in upright positions , exercise poles for postural support and strengthening , resistance bands, traction belts etc..

Considerations for patients:

Schroth method exercises are introduced gradually, mastering easier exercises first before moving up to more complex.
There is no need for elaborated equipment in the very beginning of the process. The easy and affordable adaptations can be made using basic set ups that adequately substitute for the wall bars . Patients are guided an supported through all the steps of the process
The wall bars can be purchased and installed at home, when desired and when patient feels ready to start using them for home practice
Home exercise practice is the most essential part of treatment. The extend of the home program depends on the patient’s needs and abilities to build a steady home program routine.
The standard recommendation of practicing 5 x week for 30 minutes can be highly effective. Yet, other patterns can be effective as well depending on the rehabilitation stage ( beginning versus end of treatment, or maintenance ) and age of the patient.

Memorable moments:

Barcelona – 2018 – auditing C1 Schroth training course with Dr Manuel Rigo