Preventing Curvature Progression in Childhood & Adolescence
One of the strategic objectives of comprehensive conservative treatment as espoused by SOSORT's guidelines (2016) is to stop progression at puberty. There is however, in early adolescence, still a short window of opportunity, a period of around 18 months to stop progression before a patient reaches skeletal maturity.
In the treatment of idiopathic scoliosis in juveniles and adolescents, the Schroth Method and 3-dimensional bracing complement one another. The two conservative treatments both focus on reversing the asymmetrical loading on a young patient's spine to facilitate symmetrical growth.
Compliance with Schroth physiotherapeutic scoliosis-specific exercises (PSSEs) and 3-dimensional bracing can help prevent progression and potentially reduce curvatures in young individuals before they reach skeletal maturity. Once further asymmetrical growth has been prevented, the symmetrical growth rate of the affected spinal vertebrae increases. This is known as the Heuter-Volkmann Principle.
With idiopathic scoliosis the vertebra(e) at the centre of curves become wedged shaped due to asymmetrical loading on the spine. In progressive curves, without treatment, wedged shape vertebrae continue to deteriorate in a never ending 'Vicious' cycle.
Schroth Method exercises and 3-dimensional bracing both focus on turning the 'Vicious Cycle' into a 'Virtuous Cycle'.
More helpful information on conservative treatment for juvenile and adolescent idiopathic scoliosis patients, relative to Schroth Method exercises and 3-dimensional bracing, is available in the following pages:
3D Asymmetrical Chêneau Bracing
Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis
A Team Approach To Patient Care
In providing Schroth Method exercise treatment our preference is to work closely with Orthopaedic Specialists and GPs, in a team approach to deliver the best possible care and treatment outcome for our patients.
Schroth Method
Treatment for Scoliosis
