What is Schroth Scoliosis Therapy?
The SCHROTH method was designed in Germany in the early 1900s and has been introduced into the United States in the last three decades. Evaluation and treatment are three dimensional and patient focused. Scoliosis is characterized by more than the lateral, side bending curves. The spinal segments rotate and tilt as the spine sidebends creating disc and nerve compression, shortening muscles on the concave side, and weakening muscles on the convex side. The rib cage compresses the lungs in some cases and curves can be present from the sacrum to the neck. A thorough evaluation of the patient’s x-rays helps to determine the specific type of scoliosis and a treatment plan is then developed after an in-person examination.
The Goals of Schroth Therapy
• reduce and/or stabilize the curve
• reduce pain
• improve physical appearance and confidence
• educate the patient on body mechanics and ergonomics.
Patients learn to independently improve their spinal alignment and improve their breathing and vital capacity through focused breath work. Manual therapy and neuro-muscular re-education techniques are used in addition to the scoliosis specific exercises to retrain the involved muscles. Pain relieving treatments including myofascial release, soft tissue mobilization, joint mobilization and dry needling may be needed for some patients if pain is their primary complaint.
Who Can Benefit From Schroth Scoliosis Therapy?
Males and females ages 7 to 77 can benefit from the education and training to stabilize their spine and improve body mechanics. Many exercises required 3-4 steps, so the patient needs a cognitive capacity to follow those steps or a parent who is willing to be hands-on during exercises to instruct and guide them. When combined with bracing, adolescents can reduce curvature progression along with gaining confidence and a positive body image. A specialized wall is used in the clinic, but expensive equipment is not required for home. A detailed list of locally sourced supplies (and Amazon links) is given to each patient so they can start their Schroth program right away.
Ready to get started?
Nacole is ready to help you! We accept most insurances including Medicare and Medicaid. Referrals can be made by fax 731-300-4951 or by calling 731-300-4950
Nacole Howerton-Bradley, DPT, OCS, CIDN
Certified Schroth Scoliosis Physical Therapist
Nacole Howerton-Bradley, DPT, OCS, CIDN is an eighteen year veteran in physical therapy. After graduating in 2004 from UTHSC with a Masters in Physical Therapy, she started practicing in out-patient orthopedics and sports medicine. Furthering her education and growing her knowledge has been important to Nacole. She graduated with her Doctor of Physical Therapy in 2007 and became board certified as an Orthopedic Clinical Specialist by the American Board of Physical Therapy Specialists in 2009. Adding a certification in Integrative Dry Needling (2018) and Schroth Scoliosis Therapy (2021) has greatly expanded her treatment options for people in Jackson and the surrounding areas. She lectures at local colleges and universities, regularly works with student interns, and volunteers in the community to promote physical therapy and health and wellness.
Call us at
731-300-4950 for more information
on our scoliosis therapy treatments.
