PHYSIOTHERAPEUTIC SCOLIOSIS SPECIFIC EXERCISES (PSSE)

The Schroth Method, BSPTS Rigo Concept, and other schools of PSSE are all conservative treatment options for patients with scoliosis.

Physiotherapeutic Scoliosis Specific Exercises (PSSE) is a comprehensive category and both the BSPTS Rigo Concept and the Schroth Method fall within this specialized approach to treatment. These PSSE interventions may include components of exercise and movement training, postural awareness, postural correction, breathing exercise, sensory training, and cognitive training.

The International Society of Scoliosis Orthopedic Rehabilitation and Treatment (SOSORT) was founded in 2004 to promote and encourage conservative, evidence-based treatment for people with scoliosis. SOSORT provides education, guidelines, and consensus about treatment options. SOSORT uses the term Physiotherapy Scoliosis Specific Exercises (PSSE) to encompass the seven schools of scoliosis specific exercise within the organization including: Lyon (France), Katharina Schroth Asklepios (Schroth; Germany), Scientific Exercises Approach to Scoliosis (SEAS; Italy), BSPTS Rigo Concept (Spain), Dobomed (Poland), Side Shift (UK), and Functional Individual Therapy Scoliosis (FITS) approach (Poland). The clinicians at Align Physical Therapy are trained in the BSPTS Rigo Concept based on the Principles of the Schroth Method.

The Schroth Method and BSPTS Rigo Concept offer a conservative alternative to the “wait and see” approach and provides effective treatment for patients with scoliosis from childhood through adolescence, and into adulthood. Treatment strategies prepare patients to manage their scoliosis and reduce curve progression as they age.

The Schroth Method offers a conservative alternative to the “wait and see” approach and provides a means of effective treatment for this population as adolescents which continues to reduce curve progression as they age.

Research shows that the Schroth Method provides many benefits for those with scoliosis. Schroth Method:

• Reduces prevalence of surgical intervention.
• Reduces curve progression.
• Reduces or eliminates pain.
• Improves vital capacity and lung capacity.
• Is beneficial before and after spinal fusion surgery to improve outcomes.
• Improves outcomes for patients currently in a brace.

For more information about the numerous research articles that support PSSE like the Schroth method and BSPTS Rigo Concept, please see our PSSE Research page. PSSE is a treatment option for people of all ages with scoliosis and kyphosis. Contact us today to learn how PSSE can change your life.