3D Scoliosis Exercise Therapy has been underestimated as a form of conservative management of idiopathic scoliosis. The reasons for this relate to little evidence published in medical journals which has resulted from a lack of research, and a lack interest in the medical profession generally. Until recently, 3D Scoliosis Exercise Therapy has been considered to be an ‘alternative medicine’ and therefore not a viable and approptiate treatment option. However, Schroth 3D Scoliosis Exercise Therapy can make a significant contribution to the rehabilitation of idiopathic scoliosis patients.
Schroth 3D (6 day) Scoliosis Exercise Therapy Programs adhere to Society on Scoliosis Orthopaedic and Rehabilitation Treatment (SOSORT) 2016 Guidelines,
SOSORT advocates that Scoliosis Exercise Therapy Programs need to focus and deliver:
- Auto-correction in 3D
- Training in activities of daily living
- Stabilizing the corrected Posture
- Patient education
SOSORT's Primary treatment goals as stated in the 2016 Guidelines are:
1. to stop curve progression at puberty (and possibly even reduce it)
2. to prevent or treat respiratory dysfunction
3. to prevent or treat spinal pain syndromes
4. to improve aesthetics via postural correction
It's Absolute goal is to avoid surgery.
Effectiveness of Schroth 3D Scoliosis Exercise Therapy
In March 2016, the results of a study, published in the journal Physical Therapy Science, on the Effectiveness of the Schroth Method (1) highlights the significant role scoliosis specific exercises have in the rehabilitation of scoliosis patients. The patients in this study all had thoracic curves of 40 degrees which were progressing, putting them at risk of surgery.
Schroth 3D Scoliosis Exercises can improve Bracing Outcomes
Furthermore, the results of a preliminary study published in October 2017 showed that Schroth scoliosis specific exercises, when performed during bracing, can further improve curve reduction (2) for idiopathic scoliosis patients with high-risk curves, compared to bracing alone.
Schroth 3D Exercise - Thoracic Spine Correction
A team Approach to Idiopathic Scoliosis Treatment
To achieve best possible outcomes, comprehensive conservative management of Idiopathic Scoliosis requires a team approach composed of an Orthopaedic Surgeon, Orthotist, Therapist, and if required, a psychologist.
The Scoliosis Research Society (SRS) and its members actively support optimal treatment for each patient which may include non-operative, operative and combined treatment methods...SRS in conjunction with Society On Scoliosis Orthopedic & Rehabilitative Treatment (SOSORT) is in the process of development of research guidelines for the study of treatment..for scoliosis to include bracing, physiotherapeutic scoliosis exercises, and other[s]...
(1) Kim K-D, Hwangbo P-N. Effects of the Schroth exercise on the Cobb’s angle and vital capacity of patients with idiopathic scoliosis that is an operative indication. Journal of Physical Therapy Science. 2016;28(3):923-926. doi:10.1589/jpts.28.923.
(2) Kwan KYH, Cheng ACS, Koh HY, Chiu AYY, Cheung KMC. Effectiveness of Schroth exercises during bracing in adolescent idiopathic scoliosis: results from a preliminary study—SOSORT Award 2017 Winner. Scoliosis and Spinal Disorders. 2017;12:32. doi:10.1186/s13013-017-0139-6.
