Scoliosis is a very complex condition whereby an individual’s spine curves to the left or to the right, in a C or S shape, and that can both affect his or her appearance and cause severe back pain. According to the American Association of Neurological Surgeons, 6 to 9 million people in the United States are affected by this condition.
The Schroth method is a proven, non-surgical treatment for people suffering with scoliosis that provides an alternative to surgery. It’s an approach customized for each patient according to the degree of curvature of their spine, and which can dramatically improve the patient’s posture.
How does the Schroth method help to reduce scoliosis?
Scoliosis prevents the muscles of the rib cage from being properly used, which, over time, can contribute to their deterioration. The Schroth method is a conservative exercise program developed to elongate the spine and develop these muscles, all while continuously correcting the curvature of your spine.
Don’t let your age or the severity of your condition stop you from seeking help. Schroth’s method can be used to effectively treat patients of any age group and with any severity degree of scoliosis.
What are the exercises involved in Schroth’s method?
- Exercises for muscular symmetry
Scoliosis often causes patients’ back muscles to become weak and deteriorate over time on one side, while the muscles on the other side become overworked. Schroth’s exercises are designed to strengthen the atrophied muscles and promote symmetry.
- Posture awareness
Being aware of your posture can be a great way to improve it. When you have scoliosis, you need to be mindful of your postures so that you do not worsen your condition. Awareness is vital to properly carry out your daily activities in a way that gradually corrects the curvature of your spine.
- Angular breathing
Breathing is a key part of the Schroth method. A special breathing technique called rotational angular breathing is used to rotate the spine so that the rib cage can be reshaped and the muscles and tissues are strengthened to properly support the spine.
The success factors of Schroth’s method
The Schroth method is an extremely effective approach to the treatment of scoliosis. However, in order to ensure its success, there 3 facts you must keep in mind:
- It’s an ongoing process
The Schroth’s method follows a 3D approach to straighten the spine and align it properly. The repetition of positions and breathing techniques will make the patient aware of the new postures.
It is an ongoing procedure and the spinal alignment and straightening occurs over a span of time.
- Focused breathing is crucial
Schroth’s method has two complementary phases: positioning and activation. In the positioning phase, individuals are taught different postures and how to position their body correctly.
In the activation phase, the postures corrected in phase one are activated. We achieve this through focused breathing techniques designed to train and develop muscle strength and endurance, which will in turn support the spine better.
- Consistency is key
For the Schroth method to work properly, you need to consistently follow the exercise regimen two to three times every week for up to 45 minutes. This continual work on the condition ensures a steady recovery and prevents setbacks.
What results can you expect?
The main goal of the program is to prevent your spinal curvature from worsening and to gradually align and straighten your spine. Sometimes, bracing can also be used with Scroth’s method as a part of the treatment when trying to avoid a surgical, more invasive approach.
These are the outcomes that you can expect from the Schroth program:
- Reduced scoliotic curvature
- Improved posture
- Ability to breathe easier
- Increased strength and core stability
- Decreased neck and back pain
- Improved movement patterns and overall functioning
- Better understanding of your spine and its functioning, increasing your self-awareness
- Better alignment of the pelvis.
The Schroth method is a non-invasive, effective treatment that brings hope to patients with scoliosis. It’s a trusted type of therapy of therapy that offers great benefits with no side effects.
Don’t let your condition take over your life. A trained Schroth method specialist can help you improve your scoliosis and achieve the quality of life you seek.
