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Patient Resources
The Schroth Method is an approach for treating scoliosis that uses customized exercises (PSSE – Physiotherapy Specific Scoliosis Exercises) & breathing techniques that are uniquely designed to help stabilize and reduce scoliosis curvatures. Most conventional exercise are done the same on both sides of the body but PSSE are applied unilaterally and designed to help correct the imbalances of the scoliosis spine by lengthening and strengthening the weakened muscles on the inside of the curvatures, so you can stop worrying about future problems, ongoing curve progression and anxiety about how the things you do on a daily basis might be causing more damage to your spine.
Collaborations
Find an EOS location
Find a scoliosis bracing expert
Bracing Specialists:
Walter Ramos, PT, Lic O&P is not only a licensed orthotist with certification in making the Rigo-style braces for scoliosis, but he is also a licensed physical therapist certified in Schroth/PSSE. Walter is truly an expert and his dedication to his patients and the field of scoliosis is evident in his bracing outcomes.
scoliosis-today.com
Find a certified schroth specialist
Certified Schroth-Barcelona Therapists
CALIFORNIA
Dina Chalom, PT, MOMT
Advanced Certified Schroth and SEAS Methods
Chalom Physical Therapy and Wellness
4241 Jutland Dr, Ste 103
San Diego, CA
858-692-8455
www.chalompt.com
DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA
National Scoliosis Center
Walter Ramos, PT, Bracing orthotist
https://nationalscoliosiscenter.com/the-team/
Fairfax, VA 22031
(703) 849-8808
FLORIDA
Empower Change Physical Therapy
Dr. Sarah Rivard, DPT (C2)
352-448-8421
SaraDPT@empower-changePT.com
Scoliosis PTJax
Donne Ordile, PT
Jacksonville and NE Florida
donne@scoliosisptjax.com
ScoliosisPTJax.com
Joy of Therapy
Joy Smith, PT
1809 Miccosukee Commons Dr, #114
Tallahassee, FL 32308
850-765-0213
Joyoftherapypt.com
info@joyoftherapypt.com
MISSOURI
Clay Scoliosis
Rachel Clay, PT (C2)
8515 Delmar Blvd, Ste 226
St. Louis, MO 63124
314-744-9264
http://www.scoliosistherapystlouis.com/
MONTANA
SpineRx Scoliosis and Spine Rehab
Faith Ford, PT
32 Shawnee Way, Ste C
Bozeman, MT 59715
406-602-8861
faithford@spine-rx.com
NEW MEXICO
Scoliosis ABQ
Karen Pettine, Schroth PT
505-933-7865
kpettine@scoliosisabq.com
NORTH CAROLINA
CharlotteScoliosisClinic.com
Brittany Hunt, PT
11230 Carmel Commons, Ste 106C
Charlotte, NC 28226
980-332-8060
TEXAS
ScolioAustin Scoliosis and Spine Physical Therapy Clinic
Danielle Vernon, PT
Certified Scoliosis Specialist (C2, ISST, Lyon Method, SSOL)
Austin, TX 78746
www.scolioaustin.com
512-629-4431
ScolioAustin Scoliosis and Spine PT
Dr. Cassie Chonko, DPT, OCS Certified Scoliosis Specialist
Austin, TX 78746
www.scolioaustin.com
512-629-4431
If you don’t find what you’re looking for, you can find other certified scoliosis therapists here: https://www.bsptsnorthamerica-rigoconcept.com/scoliosis-certified-physical-therapists-usa-370260.html
Journals and articles of interest
High quality research studying The Schroth Method + evidenced based support of PSSE (Physiotherapeutic Scoliosis Specific Exercises):
Scoliosis Specific Physiotherapy is not the same as regular physiotherapy
View Article Here >>Effectiveness of the Rigo Chêneau versus Boston-style orthoses for adolescent idiopathic scoliosis: a retrospective study
View Article Here >>The effect of Schroth exercises added to the standard of care on the quality of life and muscle endurance in adolescents with idiopathic scoliosis—an assessor and statistician blinded randomized controlled trial: “SOSORT 2015 Award Winner”.
View Article Here >>Effectiveness of Schroth exercises during bracing in adolescent idiopathic scoliosis: results from a preliminary study. SOSORT Award 2017 Winner
View Article Here >>The efficacy of three-dimensional Schroth exercises in adolescent idiopathic scoliosis: a randomised controlled clinical trial.
View Article Here >>Role of Vitamin D in Presentation and Prevalence of Adolescence Idiopathic Scoliosis
View Article Here >>Hope for an S-Shaped Back: The New York Times, May 2014
View Article Here >>Effects of Bracing in Adolescents with Idiopathic Scoliosis (BRAIST Study)
View Article Here >>Consistent and Regular Daily Wearing Improve Bracing Results: A Case-Control Study, July 2018
View Article Here >>Physiotherapy Scoliosis-Specific Exercises – A Comprehensive Review of Seven Major Schools
View Article Here >>2016 SOSORT guidelines: Orthopaedic and Rehabilitation Treatment of Idiopathic Scoliosis During Growth
View Article Here >>Innovations in Spinal Deformities and Postural Disorders: Importance of Sagittal Parameters in the Care for Postural Disorders and Spinal Deformity
View Article Here >>Education is key in understanding and choosing best approach for treatment of scoliosis. Dr Garikoitz Aristegui Racero
View Video>>Dr Manuel Rigo: “The analysis of the spino-pelvic sagittal alignment and global balance in non-treated AIS in relation with frontal plane parameters”
View Video >>The effectiveness of two different exercise approaches in adolescent idiopathic scoliosis: A single-blind, randomized-controlled trial
View Article Here >>
FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a Discovery Call and an initial evaluation?
Do you take insurance?
ScolioAustin is an out of network provider. Payment is due at the time of service. We give all clients detailed receipts with all the codes necessary for possible reimbursement. Most insurance companies will reimburse at some level once the deductible has been met, but it is essential that you reach out to your insurance company to learn the specifics of your benefit plan.
For those clients who have Texas Blue Cross Blue Shield, ScolioAustin IS registered as an out-of-network provider with Availity, which is a third-party support for Texas Blue Cross and Blue Shield. For those individuals with United Healthcare, UHC has recognized ScolioAustin as a “Gap Provider” and granted coverage as an in-network provider frequently in the past. Please call them to discuss details specific to your plan.
Do you take Medicare?
At the current time, Medicare laws restrict us from providing physical therapy in a private pay model. Our therapists are able to provide strength training, yoga and Pilates-style programs through 1:1 private sessions, integrating the principles of optimal Schroth spinal mechanics, muscle engagement and safe stretching specific to each person’s unique needs and presentation, but please note that these services are not eligible for reimbursement if you are a Medicare beneficiary at any level.
For scoliosis and postural issues, how often do I need to go to therapy each week?
With such busy schedules for adults and teens, we find that sessions once a week work well for most individuals. For teens that are in rapid growth spurts or are on the edge of maturing, more frequent sessions may be more beneficial to take advantage of a small window of time in making the most positive gains before skeletal maturity. ScolioAustin places a high emphasis on home exercise for promoting independence and individual accountability, so it is important to your success and outcomes to practice your prescribed exercises according to your therapist’s recommendations.
How many sessions are needed before I see improvement using the Schroth Method
10 – 20 hours are recommended so that individuals can develop a full understanding of Schroth and its principles for 3-dimensional musculoskeletal balance. It takes time, though, and consistent practice to find and hold optimal pelvic and postural corrections. We work with each person to refine and improve not only their performance of exercises but how to integrate the postural corrections with everyday activities (doing homework, carrying purse or backpack, standing in line, crossing legs, sleeping, going up and downstairs, etc). Prescribed exercises are specific to each individual, their unique curve pattern, age, and needs.
Regarding Schroth, what outcomes can I expect?
While every person is unique in their presentation, each person’s potential for improvement is also unique. The most basic goal of Schroth is to stabilize the curve and halt any curve progression (keep it from getting worse, especially during periods of growth or hormonal changes). There are many factors involved in determining each person’s potential outcomes. Having said that, most individuals do show radiological improvement in not only reducing their scoliosis, but also show significant clinical improvement in muscle strength, postural symmetry, increased height, and improved respiratory function. Subjective outcomes include reduced pain, improved digestion, improved focus, and improved confidence.
My Child has a scoliosis and plays sports: should he/she stop their sport?
Current SOSORT guidelines recommend that individuals stay active with their sports or at least 4-5 hours of physical activity per week to promote spinal stability, team building, self-confidence, personal responsibility, and accountability, and building kinesthetic awareness. There are many recommendations your therapist may share to help promote elongation and stability after daily sports practice.
Do you give exercises for homework?
Absolutely, yes! Each client receives their own personalized library of exercises that they can easily access on their smartphone or tablet. Exercises are shown in video and photo format, with clear, concise, and detailed instructions to ensure proper form at home. Exercises can be printed for those who prefer a printed reference. We are thrilled to be able to offer our clients this fantastic product.
Do you offer weekend appointments?
Yes. Appointments are all first come, first served. Weekend appointments book very quickly. Because compliance and consistency are so important in building not only confidence with the exercises, but in improving the potential for success, we recommend that you book appointments early on to secure your preferred day and time.
Do I need x-rays before my initial evaluation?
Yes. Recent or current X-rays are required for all clients seeking Schroth. If there has been a progressive or more recent change in pain or observed posture and X-rays are more than 2-5 years old, we recommend getting current ones to properly assess spinal function and ensure exercises are modified appropriately. These x-rays are called a Scoliosis Series, when requesting them to be set up.
Equipment and Products for Purchase
Beginner Equipment List:
36″ Dowel (1-1/4″ oak)
Door Anchor
Multi-loop strap
Light or medium support Band
Yoga Blocks x 2
Bean Bag wedges x 2
Multi-Loop Strap
36″ x 1-1/4″ OAK dowel
Light Support Band
Medium Support Band
Door Anchor
Schroth Stall Bars
Foam Roller
Yoga Blocks
Velcro Belt
Beanbags
Quick Release Yoga Strap
Thera Loop
Half Round Foam Roller
Resistance work out bands
7′ standing dowels 1-1/4″
Toe Spacers
Coregeous Ball
Door Anchor Strap for Resistance Bands
Local Distributor for Archies Footwear $39.99 (available for in-clinic pickup. Please call for purchase)
CoreFirst Pilates Resistance System: World’s Best Portable Pilates Work out (available for in-clinic pickup. Please call for purchase)
Bespilow Lumbar Support Pillow for Side Sleepers