The Schroth Method
The Schroth Method is a physical therapy approach to scoliosis treatment pioneered by Katharina Schroth (1894-1985), a German woman who had adolescent idiopathic scoliosis. Although she had no formal medical training, she developed breathing techniques and exercises that helped to reduce her curvature and make her torso appear more symmetrical. She did this by spending countless hours in front of a mirror, trying different techniques, until she achieved the desired result.
She went on to open a clinic in the 1920s for those with scoliosis, treating many patients with scoliosis in her lifetime. She believed in combating the psychosocial distress of scoliosis with not only exercise, but also with vitality, fresh air, and sunshine.
The Schroth Method has been carried on by Katharina’s descendants, many of whom have medical degrees and work full-time in the scoliosis field. Although the terminology has been updated, many of her original exercises remain the same.
Scoliosis is a complex 3-dimensional dysfunction and therefore requires a 3-dimensional solution. Schroth therapy involves complex yet specific exercises in all 3 planes of motion, in turn improving the 3D torso shape and global posture. Each patient’s curve is unique, and exercises are extremely customized and tailored to each patient.
The Schroth Method, a form of Physical Therapy Scoliosis Specific Exercises (PSSE) has been thoroughly studied and is working with a high level of evidence. The Scoliosis Research Society, made up mostly of surgeons, has accepted PSSE as an effective method of scoliosis management.
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Spine Curvature Types
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3C
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4C
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N3 N4
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Single Lumbar or Thoracolumbar
Diagram Videos
Before and After
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Before
Female, age 51
R Thoracic Scoliosis
Posture at Rest
June 2021 -
After
Posture at Rest
December 2021 -
Before
Male, age 17
R Thoracic Scoliosis
Posture at Rest
November 2020 -
After
Posture at Rest
August 2021 -
Before
Female, age 16
Kyphoscoliosis
Posture at Rest -
After
With Schroth Correction
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Before
Female, age 13
R Thoracolumbar Scoliosis
Posture at Rest
September 2020 -
After
Posture at Rest
November 2020