What is the Schroth method?
Schroth is a physiotherapy approach developed specifically for scoliosis. Rather than giving every patient the same exercise, treatment is tailored to the pattern of spinal curves, asymmetry of the ribcage and pelvis, age and personal goals.
Exercises combine postural awareness, active correction in three dimensions, directed breathing and integration of corrected positions into daily activities. The aim is not to force the body to “sit straight,” but to learn how to organize it more efficiently and precisely.
Specialized training: Osnat Naida is a physiotherapist with dedicated professional training in the Schroth method. This enables her to design exercises according to each person’s curve pattern, stage of growth, assessment findings and goals.
From Germany to the world
The method was developed in Germany by Katharina Schroth in the early twentieth century, based on the understanding that scoliosis is a three-dimensional change of the spine and trunk. Its principles include active self-correction in three dimensions, directed breathing, stabilization of the corrected posture and application during everyday activities.
The method has since developed into one of the better-known and more extensively studied approaches to physiotherapeutic scoliosis-specific exercise. Schroth principles are now taught and used by physiotherapists in many countries as part of individualized conservative care. Professional review of scoliosis exercise schools.
What do international guidelines say?
SOSORT, the international scientific society for orthopedic and rehabilitative treatment of scoliosis, recommends physiotherapeutic scoliosis-specific exercises (PSSE) as a first step in conservative management of idiopathic scoliosis in appropriate cases, with the aim of preventing or limiting progression. Schroth is one of the recognized PSSE schools described in guidelines and professional literature.
This does not mean every scoliosis case is managed in the same way. The decision between exercise, observation, bracing or a combination depends on age, stage of growth, curve magnitude and pattern, risk of progression and the orthopedist’s recommendation. Physiotherapy complements medical follow-up and does not replace it. See the SOSORT recommendations and the updated guidelines.
What is assessed at the first appointment?
- Medical history, stage of growth and orthopedic follow-up.
- Recent spinal X-rays and reports, if available.
- Curve pattern, position of the pelvis and ribcage, and side-to-side differences.
- Breathing, flexibility, strength, endurance and movement control.
- Pain, function, body image and activities that matter to the patient.
What does treatment look like?
During sessions, patients gradually learn individualized corrected positions and how to combine them with breathing and movement. Exercises are documented and adapted so they can be practised safely and clearly at home. For children and teenagers, parental involvement can support consistency and integration into the routine.
When a brace is used, exercise can be integrated into the overall plan, including how to organize the body both in and out of the brace. Physiotherapy is provided alongside orthopedic monitoring and does not replace it.
Helpful to bring: A standing spinal X-ray if one has already been taken, its report, the orthopedist’s summary and brace details if relevant. Do not obtain a new X-ray solely for the appointment without medical advice.
Possible treatment goals
- Preventing or limiting scoliosis progression during growth. The potential to influence progression depends, among other factors, on the curve pattern and severity, the stage of growth and skeletal maturity, and the consistency and quality of exercise performance. When appropriate, the exercises are combined with orthopedic follow-up and sometimes bracing, as part of conservative care intended to reduce the risk of progression to a more significant curve and a situation in which surgery may be required.
- Improved awareness and control of posture.
- Strength and endurance in tailored positions.
- Better function and comfort in daily activity and sport.
- Reduced pain when present.
- A sustainable long-term exercise plan.
Frequently asked questions
Does every scoliosis case require treatment?
Not necessarily. The decision depends on curve magnitude and pattern, age, stage of growth, symptoms and follow-up recommendations. A professional assessment helps determine whether exercise is indicated and what should be prioritized.
Is the method suitable for adults?
Yes. For adults, the emphasis may differ and focus on pain, function, breathing, endurance and finding more comfortable and efficient positions.
How much home practice is needed?
Frequency and duration are individualized. A clear routine that can be maintained is preferable to a long programme that does not fit daily life.