Scoliosis & Schroth Therapy
Scoliosis is a manageable condition
Scoliosis is a three-dimensional difference of the spine: alongside the sideways curvature, the spine also rotates around its own axis. The most common question is usually the same — “Will the curve progress, and what can we do?”
In our clinic, the answer to this question is clear: scoliosis-specific physiotherapy. In children and adolescents, while growth continues, our priority is to halt the progression of the curve; in suitable cases, the aim is to work towards improving the degree. In adults, posture, balance, function and quality of life come to the fore.
What is scoliosis?
Scoliosis is a three-dimensional difference of the spine that arises as the spine curves sideways and rotates around its own axis. It can be present from birth or develop during the growth period; the most common form is the type whose cause is not fully known (idiopathic).
Because the curve can progress over time, recognising it early and monitoring it regularly are important. Especially in growing children, the curve can change more rapidly during adolescence, which makes monitoring valuable. The curve can appear in different regions of the spine (thoracic, lumbar) and in different patterns (a single curve or a double curve).
Why scoliosis-specific physiotherapy?
Scoliosis is not approached like a general back or posture problem. Because it is a three-dimensional difference, the approach must be adapted to the pattern and direction of the curve and to the person’s growth status. Scoliosis-specific exercises (described in the literature as PSSE) differ from general exercise programmes for precisely this reason: the aim is a curve-specific posture correction and its maintenance in daily life.
International guidelines describe scoliosis-specific exercises, in suitable cases, as part of conservative management. In our clinic, this framework is carried out as an individually planned programme.
A Schroth-based approach
Schroth is one of the scoliosis-specific exercise approaches; it is described in international guidelines as part of conservative management and has been scientifically evaluated. At its core are three-dimensional posture correction, stabilisation of the corrected posture, and curve-specific breathing work.
In our clinic, a Schroth-based programme is carried out within a framework aimed at slowing the progression of the curve, with the goal of supporting posture, trunk symmetry and breathing mechanics. The approach is not a ready-made list of exercises — it is tailored to the curve pattern, the age group and the person’s goals.
Assessment and monitoring
Clinical examination is the basis for assessing scoliosis. The radiological evaluation and Cobb angle measurement needed to determine the degree of the curve are assessed by a physician. After the clinical assessment, an individual Schroth programme is planned.
The process is monitored through periodic assessments carried out on a physician’s recommendation, according to the curve pattern, the person’s age and growth potential. The aim is to recognise changes in the condition in good time and to update the programme accordingly.
Goals of the approach
Goals are set according to the person’s growth status (skeletal maturity):
- While growth continues (in children and adolescents): the priority is to halt the progression of the curve; in suitable cases, the aim is to work towards improving the degree.
- Once skeletal maturity is reached (in adults): the priority is posture, trunk symmetry, function, addressing pain where present, and quality of life.
In both situations, the programme is built on regular monitoring of the Cobb angle and clinical findings, supporting posture and trunk symmetry, developing breathing mechanics, and increasing postural awareness in daily life. Effects on quality of life can be tracked with scales such as the SRS-22.
The importance of deep trunk support
Because scoliosis is a three-dimensional difference of the spine, it also affects the body’s deep support system. For this reason we complement the Schroth-based programme with approaches that work the deep supporting muscles of the trunk; the aim is for the corrected posture that has been achieved to be held more stably in daily life.
Combination with bracing
Depending on the degree of the curve and growth potential, international guidelines draw on scientific evidence recommending, in certain situations, that scoliosis-specific exercises be applied together with a brace (e.g. Rigo-Chêneau). The decision on bracing and its follow-up are carried out together with a physician’s assessment; the exercise programme is planned as a complement to this process.
Who is it suitable for?
A Schroth-based approach can be applied in children, adolescents and adults, adapted to the person’s curve pattern and goals. In growing children the priority is monitoring the curve and managing progression, while in adults posture, function and addressing pain where present may come to the fore.
Surgery and the multidisciplinary framework
In severe curves, surgery may be an option; this decision is made in line with the assessment of the relevant physician and the person’s preferences.
The aim of the conservative approach is not to “straighten” the curve. The goal is to contribute to managing progression and, where possible, to reducing the need for surgery. Where necessary, the process is followed in collaboration with a physician, a physiotherapist and an orthotist.
Foundations of our approach
- Individual planning. Every curve pattern and every person is different; the programme is planned for the individual after a detailed assessment.
- Evidence-based framework. Current scientific guidelines and the biopsychosocial model are taken as the basis.
- Multidisciplinary collaboration. Where needed, the process is coordinated with a physician and an orthotist.
- Regular monitoring. The Cobb angle and clinical findings are monitored at intervals appropriate to the age group.
Frequently asked questions
Does Schroth-based therapy straighten scoliosis? The aim of a Schroth-based approach is not to straighten scoliosis completely. Within an evidence-based framework, the goals are to help slow and manage the progression of the curve, to support posture and trunk symmetry, and to improve quality of life. While growth continues, the priority is to halt progression; in suitable cases, the aim is to work towards improving the degree of the curve.
Which age groups is it suitable for? It can be applied in children, adolescents and adults. The goals and the programme are tailored to the person’s age and curve pattern.
Is it combined with a brace? In certain situations it may be combined with a brace, together with a physician’s assessment. The exercise programme is planned as a complement to this process.
How is the process monitored? It is monitored through clinical assessment and periodic reviews carried out on a physician’s recommendation; the programme is updated according to changes in the condition.
When is it appropriate to get in touch for an assessment? If there is asymmetry at the shoulders or waist, a prominence on one side of the back that becomes more noticeable when bending forward, or a previously noticed curve, you are welcome to get in touch for an assessment. Noticing it early makes monitoring easier.
The information on this page is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical diagnosis or treatment. Scoliosis assessment and management are individual; the approach suitable for you is determined after a clinical assessment.