Patients Performing Schroth Exercises
A sample of Schroth Method exercises performed by patients attending our Scoliosis Therapy Centre is displayed in the gallery below.
All patients featured have idiopathic scoliosis, ranging from moderate, moderate to severe, and severe. The caption below each image includes a number, either (1), (2), (3), (4) or (5) which relate to a specific pattern of scoliosis, as explained below.
There are of course other patterns which may involve an additional upper thoracic curvature. Also in roughly one in 10 cases of idiopathic scoliosis, curvatures are to the left in the thoracic spine and to the right in lumbar spine.
(1) Scoliosis curve to the right in the thoracic spine, prominent left hip, and flat back on the left (concave) thoracic weak side.
(2) Double major scoliosis to the left in the lumbar spine, to the right in the thoracic spine, a prominent and elevated right hip.
(3) Scoliosis to the right in the lumbar spine and to the left in the thoracic spine, and a prominent left hip. In the majority of idiopathic scoliosis cases, curves in the thoracic spine are on the right, and in the lumbar spine on the left.
(4) Double major scoliosis, to the left in the lumbar spine, to the right in the thoracic spine, and a flat thoracic weak (left) side, and slightly elevated right hip.
(5) Primary curve to the right in the thoracic spine and a secondary curve to the left in the lumbar spine.
[Click once on an image to expand it to full view, a gallery slide show will automatically commence; or you can manually move from one image to another by clicking on the left and right arrow indicators.]
For more information on Major idiopathic scoliosis curvature types - Thoracic and Lumbar, Click Here
Schroth Corrective Breathing
In all Schroth Method scoliosis exercises, patients first assume a position/posture in which the curvatures in the lumbar spine, pelvis, thoracic spine, and distorted rib cage, and shoulders are held in a corrected postural position. The spine is lengthened from the pelvis upwards. The positioning of the arms is important to corrections of the cervico-thoracic, and thoracic spine.
Whilst holding corrective posture, which mirrors (is opposite to) the scoliosis curves, patients begin Schroth corrective breathing. This technique directs breathing into the scoliosis affected areas - the collapsed areas of the rib cage. Breathing in this manner assists in decreasing rotation in both the rib cage and spine, and improves lung capacity and rib mobilization. Stabilization of the corrected posture then takes place in the form of isometric and isotonic muscle tensioning during the exhalation phase.
Effectiveness of Schroth Method Exercises
The Schroth Method is a conservative treatment approach which can improve health related quality of life: by preventing curve progression; improving function; alleviating and eradicating pain; and avoiding spinal fusion surgery.
Schroth Method scoliosis exercises when performed consistently, improve posture, mobility and balance, and facilitate more efficient movement patterns; exercises are specific to the type of scoliosis, and therefore to an individual within that type. The essence of the Schroth Method involves making pelvic (basic) corrections; lengthening the spine; performing Schroth Corrective Breathing; and tensing the trunk muscles to maintain corrected posture.
The effectiveness of Schroth Method scoliosis-specific exercise therapy is largely dependent on the ability and commitment of patients, and in the case of juveniles and adolescents, their parents as caregivers, to carry out the prescribed exercise program. It is also of paramount importance that Schroth scolisosis-specific exercise programs are designed and customised by therapists trained in the Schroth Method.
As a conservative form of treatment for idiopathic scoliosis, Schroth Method exercise therapy programs adhere to Society on Scoliosis Orthopaedic and Rehabilitation Treatment (SOSORT) 2016 Guidelines:
- Auto postural correction three dimensionally (3D)
- Training in activities in daily living (ADL)
- Stabilizing corrected posture
- Patient education
A study focused on evaluating the effectiveness of Schroth scoliosis-specific exercises performed by idiopathic scoliosis patients with high-risk curves, whilst receiving brace treatment concluded:
Schroth exercises during bracing can further improve the Cobb angle compared with bracing alone.