Do you need scoliosis (Schroth) physical therapy?
your child or teen has scoliosis
If your child has been formally diagnosed with scoliosis/kyphosis, has done the x-ray imaging, and/or has a back brace, physical therapy using the Schroth method will significantly help improve his/her condition. No two curves are alike! Unlike traditional physical therapy, Schroth uses scoliosis-corrective techniques and exercises that are unique to each individual. Schroth physical therapy is recommended for adolescents to prevent progression of the curve(s) at their early stages. We also work with your child’s orthotist to develop and fit the best brace to maintain your child’s progress.
you are an adult with scoliosis
For adults, Schroth physical therapy is great to combat other spinal conditions (like osteoporosis or slipped discs) and provide effective postural and strengthening strategies to future-proof your body. Please note that Schroth method for adolescents is NOT the same for adults. Fortunately, our scoliosis expert Caitlin Oliveros is certified under the Rigo Concept by BSPTS (Barcelona Scoliosis Physical Therapy School) and the SEAS (Scientific Exercises Approach to Scoliosis) by the Italian Scientific Spine Institute (ISICO) to aid individuals with scoliosis.
you are avoiding surgery
Contrary to popular belief, physical therapy is still beneficial for moderate to severe curves. If you seek a less-invasive approach to your condition, the Schroth method is effective in relieving pain, improving posture, and optimizing strength and function for most individuals. Most patients who go through physical therapy are able to report positive changes in their alignment and pain, for as long as they are consistent with their sessions and home exercises.
you are preparing for or had a fusion
For patients who are preparing for surgery, it is important to strengthen your body to have a faster and more effective recovery. Improving muscle imbalances, elongating the spine, and strengthening weak muscles are just some of the focus points of pre-operative therapy for patients with scoliosis. After surgery, patients are able to return to the clinic upon clearance from the surgeon for post-surgical care to relieve pain and enforce the patient’s new alignment.
you want to improve your posture
Having a formal diagnosis is not necessary to determine if someone has poor posture or not — but physical therapy can help fix that! After all, someone once said, "Good posture is not just about how you look, it's about how you feel; a confident stance is a powerful presence." Using similar methods to Schroth, we can help individuals improve their form by targeting any muscular imbalances through manual therapy (muscle release), personalized exercises, and mindfulness techniques (breathwork, balance exercises, etc). The ultimate goal with physical therapy is that patients will eventually become independent in their postural corrections outside of the clinic and without the use of a mirror!
you have back / hip / neck pain
Ever wonder if your body pain could be caused by your scoliosis? It’s definitely possible! If you’ve ever been to PT in the past for pain/tightness, weakness, or misalignment of your back, neck, or hips but STILL feel that the issue keeps coming back, then scoliosis physical therapy through the Schroth method may be the missing piece. Schroth physical therapy can help you uncover the root issues of some of the larger or more general areas of your body.
E.A.
Despite being told by countless doctors that “there is no way to improve scoliosis, including physical therapy,” I finally found Caitlin Oliveros.
I feel stronger and SAFER when lifting heavy weights with the knowledge that she has imparted in me.
K.R.