Scoliosis treatments

Schroth exercises are designed to  achieve correction and mobilisation of scoliotic curves .
Scoliosis Exercises become part of daily life.This can be achieved by corrections being integrated into a patient's postural habit. The aim is for the corrected alignment  focussed on in the exercises to be applied in day-to-day life and to eventually become a new conscious posture.
Exercises  involve the activation of weakened muscle groups by using directed breathing followed  by focussed stabilisation effort in a range of different  positions including lying, sitting and standing.The Schroth method is the most researched of the scoliosis specific exercise regimes, and so has the best evidence base for its effectiveness.Schroth method combines well with bracing, and there is evidence to show that outcomes are better with combined therapy.
Bracing is a passive correction, Schroth is an active correction. The purpose of both is to unload compressed parts of the spine to allow more symmetrical growth.
For more information and examples of scoliosis exercises click here

Bracing

Bracing provides external support for the spine to try and prevent worsening of a scoliosis. The brace works by exerting pressure on areas of the spine and rib cage to reduce rotational and sideways deformity, thus regaining postural symmetry and limiting curve progression.
There are three types of brace - full torso, TSLO braces and flexible braces, used depending on the type of scoliosis present. There is research to show that best results can be obtained with Rigo-Cheneau or Gensingen braces.

To see examples of braces and for more information on the bracing process click here.

Surgery

Surgical treatment can be used for patients whose curves are greater than 45º and continue to deteriorate despite conservative treatments i.e.bracing, bracing plus exercises, or curves greater than 50 º when growth has stopped.
Scoliosis surgery uses implants of various sorts to straighten the curve and hold the correction in place.The x-ray shows correction of a lower spinal curve. The exact procedure used will vary according to the age of the patient , the size and  location of their curve and where they are in their growth trajectory. Certain techniques, such as vertebral body tethering are only applicable at particular stages of growth.
For more information on scoliosis surgery click here.
If you would like to discuss your options for treatment, call us today on
01666 502 214