The Schroth method through Physiotherapeutic Scoliosis Specific Exercises (PSSE).
These are exercises tailored to the type of scoliosis and are based on three-dimensional self-correction, stabilisation of the corrected posture and training to maintain the corrections in daily activities. Scoliosis is a complex three-dimensional condition, which, in addition to the lateral tilt ,which can be easily seen on an X-ray, has simultaneous rotation of the vertebrae and affects the lumbar or anteroposterior plane. This is the reason why special exercises are required in its treatment, taking into account the type of scoliosis and the three-dimensional nature of the condition. The main purpose of applying PSSE is to prevent scoliosis from worsening and to improve the patient’s quality of life.
The indications for the use of PSSE as an exclusive treatment for scoliosis are:
In children with a Cobb angle of 15 – 25 degrees , who are at Risser stage of development 0-3. Instead of applying the “wait and see” tactic, the child begins PSSE training (try and see) to try to avoid wearing a guardian in the future.
In children with a Cobb angle of 25- 40 degrees, who are in the Risser 4-5 stage of development. According to SRS and SOSORT when the child’s development is at an advanced stage, the application of a guardian is of no benefit, so the treatment consists exclusively of PSSE.
In adults with any Cobb angle when pain is present. The predominant symptom in adult scoliosis is daily pain, while the second most important reason an adult with scoliosis will seek treatment is the appearance. In scolioses exceeding 45-50 degrees and when the patient rejects surgical treatment the goal with PSSE is to improve the patient’s quality of life.
Specific Physiotherapy Exercises for Scoliosis (PSSE), according to the international scientific communities SRS and SOSORT, should always be applied to all children wearing a guardian, regardless of the size of the scoliosis.
The goals of applying PSSE as the exclusive treatment for scoliosis are:
- Inhibition of scoliosis progression and in some cases even significant improvement in Cobb angle
- Three-dimensional treatment of the deformity
- Improvement of the appearance and aesthetic result
- Reduction or disappearance of possible pain
- Avoidance of surgery for large scolioses
- Correction of spinal curvature
- Correction of the flatback that usually coexists with scoliosis
- Improvement of vital capacity (VC) and overall respiratory function
- Improvement of chest expansion during respiration
- Improvement of spinal mobility, neuromuscular control and muscle strengthening in a corrected position
- Reduction of mechanical forces that promote the progression of scoliosis
- Learning to maintain corrections during daily activities
PSSE has nothing to do with traditional gymnastics, strengthening or stretching exercises, which are of no benefit in treating scoliosis. PSSE is only taught by a physiotherapist certified in the methods. The Schroth Method is an internationally recognized and scientifically proven therapeutic approach through PSSE. The Scoliosis Research Society (SRS) and the Society on Scoliosis Orthopedic and Rehabilitation Treatment (SOSORT) recognize the effectiveness of PSSE in the treatment of scoliosis.
