How Does the Schroth Method Work for Scoliosis Treatment?

The Schroth Method uses specific scoliosis exercises in order to correct abnormal curvatures of the spine. This approach focuses on strengthening and stretching muscles that have become weak due to overcompensation by other muscles. This is a non-surgical method that can improve posture, prevent worsening scoliosis symptoms, and in some cases can even reverse the curvatures.

Principles of Schroth Method scoliosis exercises

The Schroth Method was developed in the 1920s and has become the standard treatment for scoliosis patients in some countries. The main purpose of these scoliosis exercises is to create equality between asymmetrical muscles that have become imbalanced. These imbalances are what cause scoliosis and cause it to worsen, so strengthening any muscles that have become weak can reverse the effects and help straighten the spine and reduce scoliosis pain.

Many of the exercises used in this method are overcorrections. These will help reverse the scoliosis curvatures rather than simply prevent them from furthering. One exercise is to stand upright holding onto a ladder rung and lean outwards to the opposite direction the curve goes. Another exercise involving a ladder is to stand facing the ladder and squat down, which will elongate the spine and stretch out muscles that have been pinched by the curves. Other exercises focus on derotation. In one patient’s case, the Schroth Method was used to help fix a hump on the shoulder. The patient would lay face down and reach out to grab the rungs of the ladder, but put the arm on the side of the hump one rung higher. This derotates the shoulder blade to help stretch and straighten it out.

Schroth Method exercises require close supervision

These exercises must be done with the help of a doctor or physical therapist because each person has different spinal deformities caused by scoliosis. This method should be tailored to each individual by determining which muscles need to be working on and creating a custom exercise routine to develop those particular muscles. The exercises must be done daily for about half an hour, but the work pays off when curvatures begin to fade and discomfort is relieved. This approach is mostly successful for those with mild scoliosis, but it can be successful with severe cases and adults as well.

These scoliosis exercises are intended to stretch out and strengthen muscles that have become caved in, weak, or pinched because corresponding muscles were stronger and had a harder pull on the spine. The end result can be less scoliosis pain, preventing progression of the curvatures, and even reversing some curvatures.

Note: Consult with your doctor before beginning any exercise program to learn more about scoliosis and to determine the course of treatment that works best for you.

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