Schroth Therapy - Adults

A personalised, scoliosis-specific physiotherapy programme based on the Schroth Method. Exercises are tailored to your spinal curve, symptoms, physical needs and personal goals.

The Schroth Method uses three-dimensional postural correction, breathing and movement exercises to support posture, mobility, strength and everyday function.

Note: The assessment and treatment described below are indicative. Your programme will be tailored to your individual curve, symptoms and goals, and may be modified by your physiotherapist based on their clinical judgement.

Who can benefit from the Schroth Method?

Schroth Therapy may be suitable if you:

• Were diagnosed with scoliosis during childhood or adolescence
• Have developed scoliosis or postural changes later in life
• Experience back, neck, shoulder or hip discomfort
• Experience stiffness or muscular fatigue during daily activities
• Find prolonged sitting, standing or walking uncomfortable
• Have noticed changes in your posture, balance or movement
• Want to remain active and exercise with greater confidence
• Want guidance on managing scoliosis independently
• Have been referred for scoliosis-specific physiotherapy

Common scoliosis signs and symptoms we assess

We assess and manage a range of scoliosis-related concerns, including:

• A diagnosed or newly noticed spinal curve or postural change
• Uneven shoulders, waist or hips, or rib prominence
• Reduced spinal mobility or flexibility
• Back, neck, shoulder or hip discomfort
• Stiffness or muscular fatigue during daily activities
• Discomfort with prolonged sitting, standing or walking
• Changes in posture, balance or movement

What happens during the appointment?

Your physiotherapist will first discuss your diagnosis, medical history, symptoms, daily activities and goals, and review any available X-rays, specialist reports and treatment recommendations.

The physical assessment may include:

• Observation of standing and sitting posture
• Spinal movement and forward-bending assessment
• Assessment of the shoulders, ribcage, pelvis and lower limbs
• Strength, flexibility, balance and movement testing
• Identification of your individual curve pattern
• Assessment of activities that are difficult or uncomfortable for you

You will then begin learning Schroth-based techniques, which may include three-dimensional postural correction, spinal elongation, rotational breathing, and muscle activation to support a corrected position during sitting, standing, walking and exercise.

What you will leave with

You will receive:

• A clear explanation of your assessment findings
• An understanding of your individual curve pattern
• Personalised Schroth-based exercises
• Breathing and postural correction strategies
• A home exercise programme with clear instructions
• Guidance for work, daily activities, exercise and sport
• Strategies for managing pain, stiffness or muscular fatigue
• Recommendations for follow-up care

Your next steps

Depending on your assessment and goals, we may recommend:

• Individual Schroth Method sessions
• Regular reviews and progression of your home programme
• Physiotherapy for pain or movement concerns
• Strength and Conditioning
• Clinical Pilates
• Referral to a doctor or orthopaedic specialist, where appropriate

Schroth Method can support the non-surgical management of adult scoliosis by improving movement, strength, posture and symptom management. It does not replace medical monitoring or specialist treatment when these are required.