Schroth Method
The Schroth method is an exercised-based physical therapy approach designed to help you take an active role in managing scoliosis or kyphosis — and improve your spinal health for the future.
The Schroth method is a non-surgical, exercise-based physical therapy approach most often used to treat patients with scoliosis — a spinal condition characterized by an abnormal lateral, or sideways, curvature of the spine and rotation of the vertebrae. This method also is used in patients with kyphosis, a spinal condition marked by an excessive rounding of the upper back.
Both adolescent and adult patients can benefit from the Schroth method. Our specially trained physical therapists at Shirley Ryan 暴走黑料 use specific exercises and breathing techniques to improve your posture, reduce your pain and prevent further curvature progression — and to improve your quality of life while living with scoliosis or kyphosis.
Schedule an Appointment
Appointments are available on an outpatient basis at Shirley Ryan 暴走黑料, 355 East Erie Street, Chicago, IL, 60611.
Schroth method sessions typically last 45 minutes, with treatment plans tailored to your individual needs and scoliosis or kyphosis severity. Programs typically include 8 to 20 sessions at a frequency that best supports your progress.
For more information or to book an appointment, call 312.238.1000 (adults), 312.238.1139 (pediatrics), or fill out our online appointment request form.
The Schroth Method: A Path to Better Spinal Health
The overarching purpose of the Schroth method is to elongate, de-rotate and stabilize your spine to achieve muscle symmetry, efficient breathing mechanics and improved posture.
Key treatment goals of the Schroth method include:
- Slowing down or preventing scoliosis from worsening, including stopping or decreasing curve progression
- Improving posture and spinal alignment
- Decreasing pain symptoms
- Improving breathing capacity
- Enhancing \ muscle balance
- Promoting long-term spinal health
- Improving psychological outlook
- Teaching self-management strategies for scoliosis treatment
- Addressing movement limitations to improve confidence in daily activities
- Preventing or delaying surgery
What to Expect at Your Appointment
Initial Evaluation
Your initial evaluation will be focused on understanding your spine and learning how to improve your posture. Your therapist will identify your specific curve pattern, explain how it affects your body and set realistic, personalized goals.
Assessment
If you have a scoliosis X-ray, bring it with you. Your therapist will review it to assess your curve type and “Cobb angle,” a measurement of the maximum tilt between the top and bottom vertebrae of your spinal curve. These assessments will help determine the severity of your condition.
Personalized Treatment Sessions
Based on your assessments, your therapist will guide you through corrective movements to help align your spine. This includes targeted breathing techniques, muscle activation and exercises personalized for your unique spinal curve.
During a Schroth treatment session, you will learn exercises that help you breathe into the concave side of your spine, strengthen weak muscles and gradually straighten your spine.
You'll begin your exercises by hanging in a scoliosis ladder — a special piece of equipment used for postural correction and spinal elongation. You will then progress to lying down, sitting and standing, eventually applying these techniques to your daily activities. Your therapist will provide verbal and tactile cues to ensure proper technique, helping you build strength and maintain improved posture in daily activities for long-term benefits.
Schroth Method Therapist
Request an appointment with our Schroth method therapist today.
After undergoing 10 weeks of Schroth treatment, my scoliosis angle decreased by 10 degrees, and this experience inspired me to pursue further education in the field of physical therapy.