 Scoliosis is a serious medical condition that affects people of all ages. Ever since its discovery in the 5th century, medical practitioners worldwide continue to conduct studies searching for a cure.
Until today, there is still no known cure for scoliosis. However, as technology advances, many various treatments have become available to slow down the progress, manage the pain, and improve a patient’s quality of life. Through careful consideration of a patient’s case and physical maturity, doctors recommend the best suitable treatment. And more often than not, Schroth therapy ranks the list in terms of effectiveness. What is Schroth Therapy? Schroth therapy consists of custom exercises based on a patient’s curve pattern. It’s a nonsurgical treatment aiming to improve the spine’s alignment to prevent pain and curve progression. Schroth therapy was named after Katherina Schroth, a german physicist who also had scoliosis. She used her body as a test case to design the method to formulate exercises and breathing techniques. Though the therapy has already evolved over the years, the principles on postural corrections remain the same. Schroth therapy has three essential components that follow the principles of correction. It focuses on muscular symmetry, rotational angular breathing, and postural awareness. Essential Components of Schroth Therapy Each patient’s scoliosis is unique. Some exercises may work for one person, but not for another. Hence, Schroth therapy is custom-tailored to a scoliosis patient’s unique case. A certified Schroth physical therapist or specialist tailor guides a patient in applying the three essential components. These are muscle symmetry, rotational breathing, and posture awareness. Each component has a specific goal and set of exercises that you can perform during a physical therapy session or at home. Make sure to consult with a certified Schroth practitioner first before performing any activities at home. 1. Muscle Symmetry The muscles are badly affected as the curve progresses. The imbalance makes the muscles disproportioned and overworked, leading to more harm than good. Schroth therapy aims to eliminate dissymmetry by strengthening the back muscles. Stability exercises such as Pilates help. 2. Rotational Breathing Scoliosis causes the spine to rotate, leading to the rib cage’s deformity and the soft tissues around it. As a result, patients experience severe back pain and breathing problems that negatively affect their lives. Schroth therapy eliminates the breathing difficulty caused by the spine rotation. By performing rotational and angular breathing exercises, the spinal curve can shift out of the way and improve breathing function. 3. Posture Awareness Scoliosis can even worsen a bad posture. Posture awareness is the first, most important way to correct it. Posture awareness is a component of Schroth therapy that teaches and enables patients to be mindful of their posture. Being fully aware helps avoid bad posture and habits as they perform different activities daily. How Effective is Schroth Therapy?To date, there is no known cure for scoliosis that can eliminate it. Several studies, however, show that Schroth therapy is an effective treatment that prevents the condition from getting worse. It works best when combined with scoliosis bracing. Schroth's method is proven to strengthen the back muscles, slow curve progression, improve Cobb angles, improve breathing, and decrease the need for surgery. Here are some case studies to support this claim: 1. Decreasing Cobb’s Angle and Pain In a case report conducted in 2016, Schroth therapy was performed on three patients. The treatment was three times a week, for 15 weeks. The patients have idiopathic scoliosis and Cobb’s angle of ≥10°. After 15 weeks in the program, a noticeable decrease in Cobb’s angle and the pain were recorded. The findings show significant improvement compared to its previous record. 2. Improving Regression and Quality of Life for Adolescents with Idiopathic Scoliosis They conducted a systematic review in 2018 to determine Schroth therapy’s effectiveness on patients who have adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS). The participants’ range was a mix of male and female, with ages 10 and 19 and a cobb’s angle of ≥10°. They were split into two groups. A physiotherapist supervised the first group while the second group performed the Schroth exercises at home. After a 12-week and a 24-week observation period, results showed that Schroth therapy dramatically impacts regression of the Cobb angle. And the quality of life. 3. Schroth therapy during bracing A preliminary study was conducted in 2017 to determine if Schroth therapy, when combined with bracing, improves AIS patients’ condition. For six months, the participants had to wear a scoliosis brace while undergoing Schroth therapy. After six months, findings showed that Schroth therapy, combined with bracing, improved a patient’s trunk rotation, Cobb angle, and quality of life. The study concluded that Schroth therapy combined with scoliosis bracing leads to a higher Cobb angle improvement rate. In Conclusion Schroth therapy is a practical, non-invasive treatment for patients dealing with scoliosis. Though Schroth therapy doesn’t cure the spine problem entirely, it does the job of preventing further curve progression and promoting spinal balance and stability. Many studies prove that the application of Schroth therapy, whether as a stand-alone treatment or combined treatment with scoliosis bracing, significantly decreases the pain and Cobb’s angle. Children, adolescents, and adults who have scoliosis greatly benefit from Schroth therapy. A certified Schroth practitioner guides patients to perform exercises based on their unique spinal curve pattern. It’s best to visit a clinic to attend physical therapy sessions. When not available, doctors can recommend specific exercises to encourage patients to workout at home. Make sure to consult with a certified Schroth practitioner first before performing any home workouts, as each case of scoliosis is unique. Some exercises may or may not work, depending on the severity of the case. A wrong approach can lead to harm. Hence, you must observe strict guidance from a certified Schroth professional. For consultations, questions, and support, contact us.
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 A diagnosis of scoliosis is news no parent or child wants to hear. Though scoliosis is a medical condition of the spine common to children during a growth spurt, it can still impact a child’s life forever. Children diagnosed with idiopathic scoliosis are usually between 10 and 12 years old. During this time, doctors check a child’s condition and recommend treatment. In most cases, doctors advise patients to consider wearing a scoliosis brace. Scoliosis bracing is an effective treatment to prevent the curve from worsening. It requires patients to support their back with a vest for a couple of hours every day. That could be overwhelming initially and may take a while for a child to get used to. That is why parents and children should know what to expect and how to cope with this condition. Each scoliosis case is unique. Having a glimpse of your child’s journey can reduce the stigma, manage the pain, and improve the quality of life. Introducing Scoliosis Bracing Children at this age are transitioning to adolescence. The transition makes children more private and sensitive, causing an emotional stir. It can be uncomfortable and overwhelming at first for both parties. But this shouldn't shut down the conversation. It’s necessary to establish the importance of therapy and introduce the need for scoliosis bracing. Doing so lets the children know that recovery is possible and the journey isn’t as scary and hard as they think. After all, failing to engage in treatment can cause tremendous harm, so it's better to get treated. Scoliosis Brace: What Is It and Why Wear It A scoliosis brace is a small jacket-like brace, usually made out of stiff plastic. It’s designed to be wrapped underneath a patient’s arms, covering the torso, down to the waist. No two scoliosis cases are the same, so a scoliosis brace is custom designed for a patient's back. The primary purpose is to prevent the condition from progressing. And through time, correcting as much as possible. Wearing a brace lowers the chances of necessary surgery. To simply put, a child must wear a scoliosis brace to prevent the curve from getting worse. For bracing to work, a patient should still be growing, and the curve must not be too big. A key to a quicker recovery is early treatment. Failing to engage in treatment can cause tremendous harm. That’s why parents and guardians must take the lead in supporting their children in this journey. Finding the Right Fit Getting your child’s first scoliosis brace can somehow be terrifying. With ample options for a brace, finding the right fit for your child's condition can become overwhelming. To know which kind of scoliosis brace fits your child’s condition, consultation is a must. Visit a reputable clinic that specializes in scoliosis bracing. For free evaluation and recommendation, set an appointment with us so that we can help. Wearing a Scoliosis Brace A doctor evaluates your child's case then recommends the kind of brace to wear. According to Dr. Timothy Hresko, a spine doctor from Boston children’s hospital, how long a patient must wear a brace depends on the curve and their stage of growth. Ensure to follow the doctor's prescription and guidance when wearing a brace. Here are some things your child must remember when putting on a scoliosis brace. 1. Put On a Tight-Fitting, Seamless Shirt Under the Brace Before wearing a brace, it’s advisable to wear a tight-fitting, seamless undershirt. That is to help with the sweating and avoid the skin from breaking out. Children sweat a lot as they perform their daily activities in school, at home, or during therapy. The brace then rubs on the exposed skin, causing the skin to break down. Hence, an undershirt is needed to protect the skin. 2. Align the Brace on the Back It’s easy to open a brace. Just separate the edges and position them in the body. Here's an easy trick. Place the brace in the bed, then lie down. You should align the back with the brace. Then, connect the straps from the bottom up. 3. Lock the Buckles A child may struggle to wear a brace the first time, especially when locking the buckles. The doctor often marks the straps so patients can quickly identify how far the pulling should go and when to buckle up. In front of a mirror, check to see if the brace fits well. 4. Put On a Loose, Regular Shirt on Top After putting on the scoliosis brace, select a comfortable, loose shirt to put on. Your child may or may not have clothes that fit well with a brace. Wear more oversized clothing for more breathing room. Getting Used to It Your child may find the first couple of days uncomfortable. When this happens, encouragement goes a long way. There are challenges, which is why it’s necessary to educate your child on the difficulties they’ll encounter as they go. More Discomfort During Summer Putting on a brace during summer may feel like boiling. Remind your child to stay hydrated and opt for a loose, airy shirt on top. A portable fan has its wonders too. Skin Breakout Is Possible When a breakout happens, reach out to the orthotist right away for brace adjustment. Check if your child wears a tight-fitting undershirt. It should prevent the brace from rubbing the skin. Emotions Can Take Over It is understandable to feel anxious, angry, or sad throughout the scoliosis journey. Some children feel embarrassed to have to wear a scoliosis brace. Parents and guardians shouldn't disregard these emotions. Connect your child to a support group. Help them feel accepted and loved. Explain that completing the treatment leads to recovery. Key Takeaway A child’s journey to scoliosis bracing is not easy. As parents and guardians, your role is to be the primary source of encouragement and strength. The road to recovery may take some time, but the journey will be worth it. Scoliosis bracing is effective and can prevent the condition from worsening. If you need more information, feel free to contact us. We provide free evaluation and support.  Back pain is a familiar problem all adults faced. Stressful work, strenuous physical activity, and bad posture are typical causes. It’s a common scenario to visit your doctor to get a prescription for your ordinary back pain. But, this changes when your common back problem turns out to be a medical condition in the spine called scoliosis. Scoliosis is most detected in late childhood and early teens. It is usually when a growth spurt is happening. However, many people don’t know that scoliosis is a severe medical condition that can develop later in life. What is Scoliosis? Scoliosis is a medical condition in which the backbone or spine deforms in an "S" or less usual "C" shape. Some of the noticeable signs are uneven shoulders, waist or hips, leaning to one side, and odd posture. A physician performs diagnosis through a physical exam and studying the patient's medical history. In some cases, doctors conduct neurological exams. That is to check for muscle weakness, numbness, and abnormal reflexes. The diagnosis is usually confirmed through imaging tests. Some examples are x-ray, spinal radiograph, CT scan, or MRI. The cause for scoliosis is still unknown, but research says it can run in the family. In a study done on 1,436 patients, 56% had one or more relatives with the condition. However, note that there are cases with no related family history. Scoliosis in Adults Although scoliosis is common in children and teens, adults are not exempt. Scoliosis can develop later in life, too. Although, adult scoliosis takes longer to discover since it progresses slowly. Many adults can live for many years without even noticing this condition. Adult scoliosis occurs in patients 18 years old and above. Usually, there is an abnormal side-to-side spinal curve of 10 degrees or greater. Two common types of scoliosis can affect adults. Adult Idiopathic Scoliosis Adult idiopathic scoliosis is a continuation of adolescent scoliosis that has remained undetected. It may have started during the teenage years but gone unnoticed. This form of scoliosis doesn't progress until reaching adulthood. Yet, it can affect both the thoracic and lumbar portions of the spine. Adult Degenerative Scoliosis Adult degenerative scoliosis is another form of scoliosis that starts in adulthood. Naturally, our body takes on wear-and-tear as we age. Our bones undergo degenerative changes making them more vulnerable and prone to injury and damages. When joints deteriorate, it can cause the spine to curve. This form of scoliosis is most common in older adults but can also affect adults aged 50 years old and younger. An estimated 60% of people over age 60 may have mild degenerative scoliosis. Adult Scoliosis Symptoms Regardless of whether it is idiopathic or degenerative, the symptoms are pretty much similar. According to WebMD, some adult scoliosis symptoms are:
Adult Scoliosis Treatment Options You should seek immediate treatment once diagnosed with adult scoliosis. Scoliosis cases are easy to solve, and most don’t need surgery. With the advances of technology, treatments are less invasive, and recovery is much faster. The following non-surgical options are available:
Both treatments can lessen the symptoms and correct the patient's musculature, holding the spine in the right place. Contrary to other medical opinions, scoliosis bracing promotes muscle memory. Thus, it helps the spine to stay in the proper position. Arrange an examination with your doctor to find out the most suitable treatment for your medical condition. Coping With Adult Scoliosis Getting diagnosed with adult scoliosis can cause anxiety, fear, and discomfort. Unlike children and teens, the lifestyle of an adult involves a lot of responsibility. Work, family, and business are just some examples. The pain and discomfort caused by scoliosis can affect a person’s routine and lifestyle. That results in insecurity, shame, and stress. So, aside from treatment, patients must seek medical help and guidance to help cope with physical, emotional, and social challenges. Home exercises, pain medication, and support groups are accessible with the help of a doctor. Scoliosis is a serious matter and should be treated as a family affair. Patients and their loved ones must be aware of the symptoms, treatments, complications, and management to cope with them. Adult Scoliosis: Key Takeaways Scoliosis is a serious medical condition that affects millions of people, regardless of age, sex, and race. Though a vast majority of patients are young people, scoliosis can develop later in life. Adults need to be aware of this possibility and take good care of the body by avoiding the bad habits that can result in a spine problem. The two most common types of scoliosis in adults are:
As soon as diagnosed, scoliosis can be treated and managed with experts and professionals in the field. Resources, treatments, and clinics are available for patients dealing with adult scoliosis. If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, don’t disregard them. Talk to a doctor immediately. Disregarding your symptoms can worsen the condition and may result in further complications. Remember, as the body ages, the joints become weaker, making it more susceptible to damage. Proper treatment can manage the deterioration and can stop its progress. We’re here to help. Contact our main office to set an appointment. We provide spine check-ups, scoliosis bracing, and other related services to help patients reach recovery.  Pectus Excavatum is a malformation of bone that occurs in your child’s chest wall. The name means ‘hollow chest’ in Latin. It causes a visible concave deformity and might cause the ribs to grow in a wayward manner. Due to this, it is also known as the sunken chest syndrome or funnel chest. If you suspect that your child has Pectus Excavatum, confirming its presence and getting treatment is relatively easy. After all, it’s the most common chest wall abnormality observed in children. We layout your next course of action in chronological order.  Detecting ItUnlike the case of Pectus Carinatum, this condition can be detected when your child is as young as 2 or 3. But they can only determine its severity with growth spurts. The figures suggest that male children are more susceptible to the condition. At least 1 in every 300-400 children develops this ailment to various degrees of severity. Nearly 15% of the children who have Pectus Excavatum develop scoliosis - a spine curvature ailment. So, it becomes all the more important to pay attention to signs of a sunken chest. Consult your physician and understand the severity of the issue. If required, talk to an orthopedist to get detailed insights into your child’s condition. CausesUnfortunately, researchers haven’t been able to pinpoint the reasons for its occurrence. Some academics from Boston University have discovered genetic markers associated with the condition. Others tend to relate sunken chests with Marfan Syndrome, Noonan Syndrome, and the likes. In children with spinal muscular dystrophy, diaphragmatic breathing can also cause Pectus Excavatum. Treating It When mild Pectus Excavatum is detected, no medical intervention is needed. At most, your child may need a few regulated physical activities to overcome the condition’s effects. In cases where there is a threat of lung damage or cardiorespiratory issues, surgery might be the best recourse. Read on to find out about the various methods and their possible implications. Non-Surgical Methods1. Exercise
2. Vacuum Bell
3. Orthoses
Surgical Methods1. Ravitch Technique
2. Nuss Procedure
3. Robicsek technique
4. Lipofilling
Following UpAfter undergoing any surgical procedure, you can expect your child to be kept under observation for 3-4 days. They could be under pain-control medication for up to a month after the operation. It’s best if they skip school and all other physically draining activities during this period.
Amidst all this, understanding the psychological repercussions becomes essential. Attempt to attend all follow-up sessions with your physician, orthotist, or physiotherapist. Teens especially feel awkward or embarrassed to talk about their feelings. Try to find out if their friends and other family members are being sensitive while broaching the topic. Additionally, ensure that your child is comfortable during the prognosis and treatment phase. Without their willingness, it would be impossible to achieve the desired results. Want to know more about the other kinds of chest wall disorders? We have listed them in this all-inclusive blog post. |
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