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What is Scoliosis?
Scoliosis is commonly known as a lateral curve of the spine.
Types of Scoliosis:
- Functional: the curve is caused by leg length difference or muscle imbalance in the spine and pelvis
- Structural: the curve is caused by changes in the structure of the spine
Will my curve improve with treatment?
This depends on age, the flexibility of your curve and how dedicated you are with your home exercise program and many other factors. During your initial assessment, the therapist will give you a realistic idea of how much change you should expect with treatment.
What is the Schroth Method and how is it used to treat Scoliosis?
Today, the Schroth method, developed in Germany in the 1920s, is used as a conservative treatment for scoliosis and kyphosis (rounded upper back) in all types of patients.
How do I prepare for my first session?
We highly recommend that you provide the clinic with a CD of your most recent x-ray film prior to the appointment so that it can be analyzed before your first session. This allows our therapist to prescribe the best treatment based on your assessment in the clinic and your x-ray findings.
During treatment, it is ideal to be able to see the spine. We recommend wearing a sports bra (not a t-back as it covers the spine) and tights or shorts for females. For males, it is ideal to wear shorts and remove your shirt for treatment. It is also fine to wear clothing during treatment depending on your comfort level.
What should I expect in the scoliosis assessment?
In the first session, your physiotherapist will do a detailed assessment to record your history, your treatment to date, how scoliosis affects your life and your goals.
We will do an objective assessment of your posture and curve. Measurements will be taken that can be reassessed after a few sessions to see your response to treatment and progress.
The treatment for Scoliosis in adolescents and children includes the following:
- Bracing -depending on the degree of the curve and risk for progression of the curve
- Surgery for curves greater than 45-50 degrees
- Scoliosis Specific Physiotherapy to correct muscle imbalances by strengthening the spinal stabilizing muscles and stretching tight muscles.
The treatment for Scoliosis in adults includes the following:
- Scoliosis Specific Physiotherapy to correct muscle imbalances by strengthening the spinal stabilizing muscles and stretching tight muscles.
- Manual therapy, IMS and Acupuncture to help with reducing muscle tension, mobilizing joints and reducing pain
- Treatment also includes education on how to modify your activities to reduce stress on your spine and maintain the best possible posture at work, home and sport.
How often should I come for treatment?
We typically recommend 1 session per week for 5-10 weeks.
How often should I be doing these exercises at home?
It is recommended that the exercises be completed at home 5 days a week for 30 minutes a day. This would be the ideal situation for the best and effective results.
You will also be given techniques on how to integrate these corrections into your daily life and physical activities.
The exercises may require some small additional equipment for you to be able to perform them at home. This usually costs between $25-$105 depending on which exercises are given to you.
What are the goals of treatment?
- Correction or improvement of scoliotic posture
- Strengthen and stabilize the spine
- Control progression of the curve
- Increased function, ability to live an active and independent lifestyle
- Improved self-image
- Reduced pain
- Enhanced Respiration
- Prevention of surgical intervention
How is the treatment different from standard Physiotherapy?
This treatment is very different from standard Physiotherapy. The therapist has specific advanced training in Schroth Physiotherapy through the Barcelona Scoliosis Physical Therapy School. The exercises given will be tailored to you and your specific curve. These exercises are designed to give you the maximum correction of your scoliosis.
Looking for Scoliosis or Kyphosis Treatment in Clayton Heights, Surrey, BC?
Our experienced team at Clayton Heights 188th Street Physiotherapy & Sports Injury Clinic can help you correct your posture, strengthen and stabilize your spine, and improve your overall wellbeing with exercise therapy tailored to you and the curve of your spine. Give us a call or book an online appointment today. You can also contact us via contact form.