The Twisted Spine Physical Therapy Program
What is Scoliosis?
Scoliosis is a sideways rotational curvature of the spine. In the presence of scoliosis, the vertebrae (bones) of the spine form a curved line, thus causing the spine to twist.
What is the Schroth Method?
The Schroth Method is a conservative physical therapy approach to help people living with scoliosis and kyphosis. Kyphosis and scoliosis are conditions of the spine and they can occur together or independently of one another.
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What is Kyphosis?
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Kyphosis is an exaggerated forward rounding of the upper back. The upper back naturally has a normal physiologic kyphosis as a part of its resting posture. This normal forward curvature can become excessive and make a person feel like they are hunched over or slouching.​
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Symptoms of Scoliosis
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Uneven shoulders
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One shoulder more prominent than the other
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Uneven waist
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Uneven hip height
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One side of ribs more prominent than the other
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A prominence on one side of the back when bending forward
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Pain in the neck or back
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Limited motion of the spine, rib cage and pelvis
Symptoms of Kyphosis
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Rounded shoulders
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Curve or hump in the upper back
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Pain in the middle or lower back
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Rounded back appearance
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Difficulty breathing
History of the Schroth Method
The Schroth Method is a physical therapy based system of exercises designed to address scoliosis and kyphosis. It was developed in Germany by Katharina Schroth (1894-1985), a scoliosis sufferer herself. She,
ultimately, opened a clinic in Germany to help individuals living with spine curvatures. Her daughter, Christa Lehnert-Schroth, a trained physical therapist, worked with her on further developing her exercises into a full systematic evidence based approach. Although no longer owned by the Schroth family, the Asklepios Katharina-Schroth Klinic in Bad Sobernheim, Germany today treats over 1000 patients annually.
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Schroth at a Glance:
The Schroth Method physical therapy approach must be delivered by a Schroth Certified Physical Therapist. Most insurance carriers cover this treatment as a part of skilled physical therapy. A physician referral for physical therapy with a scoliosis/kyphosis diagnosis is required. The Schroth Method can be used to treat patients with scoliosis and kyphosis of all ages and in all stages of treatment both non-surgical and pre/post surgical.
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How Schroth Works:
The Schroth Method is designed to build awareness of posture and alignment through positioning and exercise. With guided repetition, the exercises will build on motor learning principles to establish self
corrections in resting postures and functional activities. Everyone’s spine curvatures are different and once the individual becomes familiar with their curve pattern, they can learn how to correct their postural positions, perform strengthening where needed and apply proper breathing patterns
as appropriate. Frequently performing the Schroth exercises on a regular basis will achieve optimal results.
What should I expect during a Schroth treatment session?
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During the physical therapy initial evaluation a full medical history will be obtained, imaging reviewed and a full assessment of the curvature, arms and legs will be made. Together we will set goals to achieve during your episode of care. All follow up sessions will be conducted keeping the long term goals in mind and in keeping with the Schroth Exercise Principles. The exercises will be performed in different positions for function. Clothes that allow for easy access to the back, shoulders, ribs and pelvis should be worn to
sessions. ​LevinWell Fitness & Rehab has physical therapists who are certified in Schroth Method to treat your scoliosis and kyphosis. Contact us for more information.