Non-Surgical Scoliosis & Kyphosis Treatment

When treating our patients with spinal curvatures such as scoliosis and kyphosis (Scheuermann's disease or round back), we design a therapeutic program based on the Schroth Method from the Barcelona Scoliosis Physiotherapy School (BSPTS). The Schroth™ Method was originally developed in Germany in the 1920s by world pioneer in scoliosis treatment, Katharina Schroth.  The Schroth Method as taught by the BSPTS has been recognized by the Scoliosis Research Society as a viable conservative approach (one of seven PSSE schools) to the treatment of spinal deformities. 

The Rationale

The muscle and postural imbalances that are typically seen in patients with either scoliosis or kyphosis can create uneven forces in the spine, and potentially contribute to the aggravation of the curve. Temporarily correcting these imbalances using scoliosis specific exercises can improve posture and help prevent curve progression.

 
xray review  

The First Visit - Evaluation

Beatriz needs to perform an intensive evaluation before treatment is rendered.

A prescription for “physical therapy services for scoliosis/kyphosis” from a medical doctor is not required but preferred.  We strive to be a part of the traditional medical model working closely with other professionals.  We believe the best quality care comes when medical doctors, physical therapists, orthotists, and patients are all on the same team and have an understanding of the three-dimensional nature of scoliosis.

The initial evaluation on the first visit includes:

   

Movement, strength, balance and functional mobility examination

Posture exam with digital photographs

Breathing and lung capacity assessment

Analysis of most recent full spine x-ray if available (confirmation of curve pattern, adult's modifiers if present, lumbopelvic parameters)

Curve pattern classification according to the Rigo classification system.

Determination of risk for curve progression
   

Specialized Treatment using the Schroth Method

For the treatment of patients who are not in the surgical range, we utilize elongation exercises specific to the curve, opening of the concavities or collapsed areas by muscular transverse forces, targeted breathing into the concavities, active and passive corrections of the postural asymmetries, trunk stabilization in the corrected position, and home program education.  

The program is recommended for both adolescents and adults with idiopathic scoliosis. Adults with de novo degenerative scoliosis can experience reduced associated back pain and improved trunk stability.  

Patients who have undergone spinal fusion surgery for scoliosis can be treated after healing is complete post-surgery.  The specific exercises will address the trunk imbalances above and below the fusion, maximizing symmetrical forces in the spine after the fusion.  

Scoliosis Bracing

Based on several years of clinical experience dealing with multiple types of scoliosis braces, Beatriz only works with and recommends Rigo-Chenêau type braces, specifically the WCR brace.  She doesn't receive any financial compensation from recommending this brace; it's only based on prior positive outcomes.

The WCR brace is meticulously designed to work well with the Schroth-based exercises.  For more information about WCR scoliosis bracing you may visit: www.align-clinic.com.

You can find a list of certified WCR orthotists here


Paying for services

Private Pay Only

Payment is expected at the time of service and we don't bill health insurances.  Current fee is $120 for an hour initial evaluation and $120/hour during a session. Sessions are 2 hours long at a frequency of once per week in most cases, with the exception of children under the age of 10 who receive 1 hour long sessions. Of course, both the frequency and duration of sessions can be adjusted based on the individual case. We don't make you commit to a package; you pay per session as you go. 

 48 Hour Cancellations

Cancellations of sessions are required 48 hours in advance; anything less will result in a "late cancellation fee" for any given reason.

Late Policy "20 min"

Being late by more than 20 min will require you to either reschedule or wait for the next available appointment after a cancellation fee is applied.  We do not allow appointment overlap because this undeservedly compromises the care of another person

Scheduling

Call 305-428-2790 (leave a clear message) or email at info@corposchema.com to make an appointment. Walk-ins not allowed.  A quick free screening can be conducted over the phone or by email, but an in-person initial evaluation is required prior to treatments.

 


Family Resources

Physiotherapy Scoliosis Specific Exercises: A Comprehensive Review of Seven Major Schools.  Scoliosis and Spinal Disorders.  June 2016

Effectiveness of the Rigo Cheneau versus Boston-style orthoses for adolescent idiopathic scoliosis: a retrospective study. (Scoliosis and Spinal Disorders Journal, March 2017)

Research article supporting rigid brace over soft brace. SpineCor associated with increased risk of curve progression (January 22, 2016)

The efficacy of three dimensional Schroth exercises in adolescent idiopathic scoliosis: a randomised controlled clinical trial.  February 8th, 2015.

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".  September 2015.

Scoliosis Research Society (SRS) Statement on Physiotherapy.  By M. Timothy Hresko, MD.  May 2014.

Physical Therapy for Adolescents with Idiopathic Scoliosis.  Physical Therapy Perspectives in the 21st Century - Challenges and Possibilities. Refer to page 12 for Barcelona Scoliosis Physiotherapy School.

Straight Talk with the Curvy Girls.  By Terry Mulvaney and Robin Stoltz.

New York Times article featuring Schroth physical therapy.  Hope for an S-Shaped Back.  By Rachel Rabkin Peachman.  March 2014.

Philadelphia Inquirer article sharing a patient's experience with Schroth physical therapy.  Beyond Braces for Scoliosis Patients.  By Melissa Dribben.

International Society on Scoliosis Orthopaedic and Rehabilitative Treatment (SOSORT): founded in January 2004 by a group of physicians (from Europe and Asia) who are interested in studying the efficacy of various methods of conservative treatment. Dr. Manuel Rigo was the first president.

 

Our goal is to give you a strategy to care for your own back.  You will learn how to perform a routine of exercises specific to your curve pattern with the purpose to facilitate the correction of the asymmetric posture and maintain the corrected posture during your daily activities. We will provide you with the tools to help you adopt a more centered and balanced posture.

Please note that enrolling in this program will require a high level of commitment from your part.  We may discontinue your participation in the program at any time.  For questions you may fill out the Inquiry Form or call at 305-428-2790.  Make sure to leave a detailed message if we are unable to answer your call. 

 

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